Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park or Rajamalai is one of the major attractions in and around the Munnar hills and is well known for the Nilgiri Tahr, which is one of the most endangered inhabitants in the world. With an area covering over 97 sp.km, the Eravikulam National Park is situated along the crest of Western Ghats. This amazing national park in Kerala is located around 15 km away from Munnar town.

The highly elevated shola grasslands and its amazing ecosystem are the hallmarks of Eravikulam National Park in Munnar. The Rajamalai wildlife park and the forest area is highly preserved by the Government and hence private vehicles are not allowed inside Rajamalai and the national park. Visitors are taken to the Eravikulam National Park in vehicles that are offered by the forest department.

During the initial months of every year the Nilgiri Thars of the Eravikulam National Park are involved in calving and the national park will be closed during this period. During the tourist seasons the Eravikulam park will be open from 7 AM to 6 AM. There is also an entry fee to get inside the national park. Anamudi which is one of highest peak in South India is present at the Eravikulam National Park.

Wildlife Animals and Birds in Eravikulam
Apart from the Nilgiri Tahr, other animal species that are found at the Eravikulam National Park include Gaur, Golden Jackal, Indian Muntjac, Sambar Deer, Jungle Cat, Wild dog, leopard, Dhole, tiger, Nilgiri Marten, Nilgiri langur, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Indian Porcupine, small clawed otter, Ruddy Mongoose, and Dusky palm squirrel. You can also see elephants paying occasional visit to the Eravikulam park.

The Eravikulam National Park is also home to some of the most amazing and unique bird species such as Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Nilgiri Verditer Flycatcher, Nilgiri Pipit, White Bellied Shortwing and Kerala Laughing thrush.

Things to Do in Eravikulam
The National Park of Eravikulam is one of the best place to have trekking, provided you have gained permission from the authorities. The park is one of the best place to view the unique animals and birds, and for those interested in photography, there is no other better place than this. Since the roads of the hills are steep and curvy, it is quite adventurous to take a ride and view the amazing beauty of nature.

How to Reach Eravikulam National Park
The nearest railway head to Rajamalai is the Aluva Railway station which is around 120 km away and the nearest airport is at Nedumbassery in Kochi which is also around 126 km away. So once you reach there you can take a taxi or any other public transport system to reach Munnar. From Munnar you can take a taxi or jeep to reach Rajamalai or Eravikulam National Park which is 16 km away from Munnar Town. Once reaching the premises of the Park, you have to take a walk by foot to reach the interior of the park.

Accommodation Facilities at Rajamalai
If you are looking for a decent accommodation while on your trip to Eravikulam National Park, then there is nothing to worry, as there are a good number of quality hotels and resorts available in and around Munnar. Make sure that you book your accommodation in advance, as the resorts, hotels and lodges in Munnar tend to be packed during peak tourist season.

Best Time to Visit Eravikulam National Park
If you are serious about watching the animals, birds and natural beauty of Eravikulam Park at its best, then it is highly recommended to visit the place between December to March. During this time, the climate at Rajamalai will be awesome and you will get a memorable tour experience to cherish.

So, if you are interested in this tourist destination in Kerala, then go and book your travel package at the earliest.