Things to Keep in Mind while at Eravikulam National Park

 

To protect and maintain the delicate ecosystem of Eravikulam National Park, there are rules and regulations in place for visitors to follow. These guidelines are crucial as the park is home to endangered species. The following rules must be adhered to:

 

1. It should be noted that nature is unpredictable and the animals residing in the park are no exception. Therefore, there is no guarantee of spotting them. However, if you do get lucky, make sure to capture the moment on your camera.

 

2. Bringing outside food and drinks into the park is strictly prohibited as it can lead to littering. This is considered a punishable offense by the park authorities. Additionally, visitors are requested to refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol within the premises of the park in order to maintain its sanctity.

 

3. Visitors are urged to be mindful of their actions and their impact on the environment. Loud music, talking, and other forms of noise can disturb animals who are sensitive to such disturbances. Feeding animals or bringing pets into the park can also be dangerous for both them and you.

 

4. Eravikulam National Park takes pride in being one of the few plastic-free parks in the country. Therefore, visitors are not allowed to bring any plastic items into the park. Firearms or other harmful objects are also prohibited on park grounds. The management offers organized programs for activities like trekking or picnics, so unauthorized plans will not be tolerated.

Eravikulam National Park provides an array of delightful experiences for visitors to partake in. This park is a true paradise, offering countless activities for guests to enjoy. It offers a luxurious retreat into nature, allowing visitors to reconnect with the environment, observe animals in their natural habitats and admire the abundant plant life. The activities at Eravikulam National Park are both thrilling and serene, making for a rejuvenating vacation, and include:

 

Nilgiri Thar : Eravikulam National Park is the dwelling place of a large number of Nilgiri Tahr, a type of goat that is classified as endangered. These goats are easily recognized by their short, dark, rough fur and distinctive mane. Spotting them in the park is a remarkable experience that can be passed down through generations. The most effective method for observing these elusive creatures, as stated in the park's visitor management system, is to take a one-kilometer stroll along the black road to reach the area where they live. Over time, they have grown accustomed to humans and are friendly towards their presence.

 

Interpretation centre : The Eravikulam National Park has an interpretation center called "Story of the Park" which aims to educate visitors about the importance of biodiversity. However, in today's world, information about preserving natural areas like this often goes unnoticed. It is concerning how little we know about the environment and its conservation. The center uses infographics and engaging demonstrations as a step towards a more informed society on environmental issues.

 

The Anamudi Peak, situated on the border of Ernakulam, Kothamangalam, Idukki, and Devikulam districts, is the tallest mountain in South India. Its name, meaning 'elephant's head', is derived from its distinctive shape. With a towering height of 2695 meters, the peak is a magnificent sight to see. Access to the summit is limited to viewing from afar at Rajamala.

 

Rajamala, also known as the tourism section of Eravikulam National Park, is a special area that showcases all the amazing features of the park. It is the habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr and boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna that have created their own unique ecosystem. A trip to Eravikulam National Park essentially means a visit to Rajamala. However, please note that it is closed from February to March every year due to calving season. 

The entry timings are from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM and the entry fee is Rs. 200 for adults, Rs. 150 for children, and Rs. 500 for foreigners. for booking : https://eravikulamnationalpark.in/landing/axRegister.php

 

.Lakkam waterfalls : Experience the stunning Lakkam Waterfalls, where you can witness clear, powerful water dropping with magnificent force. This breathtaking scenery is a must-see in South India. The falls originate from Eravikulam National Park and flow into River Pambar, which is one of Kerala's easternmost rivers. Eventually, it joins with River Cauvery in Tamil Nadu and continues along the road from Munnar to Marayoor. Take a break from your journey to admire the natural cascading water while enjoying snacks from the on-site cafeteria and browsing items at the eco shop. 

 

The falls are open for entry from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and have an entry fee of Rs. 50 per person.

 

Lakkam Log house :At Lakkam Log House, you can achieve a detox by immersing yourself in nature. It is an exhilarating and tranquil experience to be surrounded by the natural environment. The combination of cool, damp air and refreshing gusts, accompanied by the sounds of various birds and animals, creates a truly enchanting atmosphere. We have all fantasized about living in tree houses, and at Lakkam Log House, that dream can become a reality. Not only will you have the opportunity to live in a tree house, but you will also receive top-notch hospitality, complimentary meals, and the serenity of nature with its soothing sounds breaking the silence.  for booking;  https://munnarwildlife.com/accommodations

 

The rates are Rs. 3500 for two Indian guests, Rs. 4500 for foreigners, and an additional Rs. 1000 for any extra guests.

 

Trekking programs :The Eravikulam National Park has a range of trekking programs that cater to adventurous individuals. Put on your gear, and join some of their most exhilarating trekking programs. The management at the park strives to fulfill everyone's desires. Among the options available are trekking programs within Rajamala, such as the 'Gouldsbury trail' two-day trek with camping.

 

Nature education camp : The Kerala Forest Department has noticed a concerning lack of knowledge about the environment and its impact. As the future of our planet lies in the hands of the youth, it is crucial for them to have a strong understanding of environmental issues. To address this, the department has planned Nature Education Camps at Eravikulam National Park. These three-day camps will host around thirty students and will be led by environmental experts who will guide them through treks and field visits. This program is highly beneficial for both the students and the park itself.

 

Eravikulam is flora is indeed fascinating. The region's unique climate and rainfall patterns play a crucial role in shaping its diverse vegetation, from dense forests to delicate flowers and valuable medicinal plants. What specific aspects of Eravikulam's flora are you interested in exploring further?

 

Vegetation :The region contains primarily three distinct types of plant communities. These include grasslands, Shola forests, and shrublands. 

Grasslands cover the majority of the land, with wild grasses and scattered trees being the dominant vegetation. 

The Shola forest, which is also known as tropical montane forest locally, makes up about 20 to 25 percent of the area. 

The remaining portions consist mostly of shrubs, rocky cliffs, and small sections of Southern Tropical Hill Forests. 

 

Within these vegetation types, there is a diverse array of plant species present. For example, there are approximately 300 species of grass in the grasslands, 22 species of Bryophytes (mosses), 12 species of pterid ophytes (vascular plants or trees), and over 100 species of fungi.

 

Forest cover: The Eravikulam National Park is home to two main types of forests: the Grasslands and the Shola Forests. These forests fall under the category of Southern Montane Wet Temperate Forests and are located on the high plateau, covering both low-lying areas and valleys. In addition to these, there are also other types of forests within the park, such as the Southern West Coast Evergreen Forests on the western side and Moist Deciduous Forests in the east.

             A small portion of the national park, near where it borders with Anamudi Reserve forest, displays characteristics of Tropical Evergreen Forests. These forests are characterized by tall, lush green trees including species like Mesua ferrea, Cullenia excelsa, and Palaquium ellipticum.

            Towards the eastern edge of the park, close to Talliar estate, there is a small section of deciduous forests. These forests are home to trees like Rosewood and Pterocarpus, with an undergrowth primarily composed of Lantana. The coexistence of both deciduous and evergreen forests in this area is made possible by its microclimate. It is important to protect this unique form of forestation as much as possible.

 

Floristics : The floral diversity of Eravikulam National Park is exceptionally abundant, thanks to its unique climate. A remarkable 803 types of flowers have been recorded in the park, including 76 Pteridophytes and 727 Angiosperms. Among these, Dicotyledons are the most prevalent, with more than 500 different species thriving in the park. Monocotyledons make up around 222 species. Other prominent families of flowers in the park include Poaceae, Orchidaceae, Asteraceae, Rubiaceae, Balsaminaceae, Acanthaceae, Papilionaceae, Lauraceae, Melastomataceae, and Lamiaceae. The park is also home to a variety of fern flowers, with 76 species being endemic to Eravikulam. Out of the 190 exclusively found flower species in the region, 89 are considered under threat. Notable endemics include Anaphalis barnesii, Begonia aliciae, Didymocarpus macrostachya, and Habanarai flabelliformis.

 

Medicinal plants :

● Medicinal Plants: The Eravikulam National Forest located in the Western Ghats has an area of over 200 hectares which is under the Medicinal Plant Conservation Area (MPCA) which stretches from the base of Anamudi into Eravikulam. This area is protected from fire incidents annually for its better conservation. Plants are medicinally used in practices such as Ayurveda, Homoeopathy and Unani medicine.

 

The plants that mostly come under protection are:

#Wild Plants growing in forests, grasslands, aquatic ecosystems or ones that are associated with any other form of natural vegetation.

#Plants that are growing as weeds in the forest.

#Plants cultivated for cereal, fruit, vegetables, spices, oil or any other cash crop.

#Plants cultivated as medicinal crops for medicinal purposes only.

 

The Eravikulam region is extremely rich in terms of medicinal plants as the forests and hills of this park house about 700 medicinal plants. Some of them are used for traditional or folk medicinal practices in the area, while others are exploited commercially for active enzymes or any other commercial value.

 

The animal life in this stunning national park is comprised of a wide variety of creatures, including animals, amphibians, birds, and butterflies. The park is home to numerous exquisite species that are exclusive to the Western Ghats mountain range. Below are some examples of the fauna found here.

 

*Animals :

 

The national park is home to a diverse array of animals that rely on the vegetation for survival. The quality of the soil, climate, and rainfall play a significant role in controlling the availability of food for these creatures. A variety of animals such as seventeen mammals, eleven birds, and seven butterflies are native to the Western Ghats. Among the 48 mammal species present, 17 are unique to this region and include species like Nilgiri Tahr and Nilgiri Marten. Additionally, the park is also home to other creatures like amphibians, birds, and butterflies.

 

Birds: In the National Park, there are 133 different types of birds, with nearly 11 of them only found in the Western Ghats. Among these, well-known species include the Jungle Bush Quail, Indian Golden Backed Three-Toed Woodpecker, Small Green Barbet, White Breasted Kingfisher, and Indian Lorikeet.

 

Butterflies : Butterflies are a notable feature of Eravikulam National Park, with a vast number of species adding to its beauty. The park boasts approximately one hundred identified species of butterflies, eleven of which are unique to the Western Ghats region. Unfortunately, some of these butterflies have become endangered and it is crucial to implement conservation efforts for their survival. The Southern Birdwing, Malabar Raven, Red Disk Bush Brown, Palni Fourring, Nilgiri Tiger, White Disk Hedge Blue, and Tamil Darlet are among the endangered species found in the park.

 

Reptiles : Despite being located in the tropics, the national park has a unique microclimate that poses challenges for reptiles to survive. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the species of animals that are native to the Eravikulam region.

 

Out of the 13 reptile species found in the park, only five are lizards and the remaining eight are snakes. Interestingly, ten of these species can only be found in the Western Ghats.

 

Some examples of lizards and snakes in this area include Salea anamallayana (Anamalai Spiny Lizard), Mabuya carinata (Keeled Grass Skink), Uropeltis pulneyensis (Palni Shield Tail Snake), Amphiesma stolata (Buff Striped Keelback), Ahaetulla dispar (Gunther’s Vine Snake), and Xylophis perroteti (Perrotet's Mountain Snake).

 

Amphibians : The presence of rivers from the Eravikulam region and the unique climate have made it possible for various amphibians to inhabit the national park. Among the twenty-one species of amphibians found in the park, the majority of seventeen are exclusive to the Fauna of Eravikulam National Park. Some notable amphibians found in this area include the Ridged Toad (Bufo parietalis), Leith's Leaping Frog (Indirana leithii), Bicolored Frog (Rana curtipus), Yellow-Bellied Bush Frog (Philautus flaviventris), and Boulenger's Bubble Nest Frog (Philautus signatus).

 

Fish : The freshwater rivers and other bodies of water in the Eravikulam region are home to a diverse array of marine life, much of which is caught for commercial purposes. Among the many species present, four types of fish have been identified. The most commonly found species in this area include the Horalabiosa joshuai, Garra hughi, and Salmo gairdneri gairdneri. These creatures, along with other animals such as mammals, birds, butterflies, reptiles, amphibians, and fish comprise the fauna of this ecosystem. Unfortunately, a large number of these creatures are either endangered or exclusive to the region, making it crucial to protect and support their growth and survival. While most of these animals can be observed during a visit to the park, those that are endangered are rarely spotted.

There are several factors that come together to prove the significance and value of the national park, culturally, ecologically, and sociologically. Some of these reasons are:

 

 

Biodiversity and Endangered Species:This park presently houses the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and is also the famous habitat of Neelakurunji, which blooms only once every 12 years. Apart from these, the park is also home to Nilgiri Marten, Ruddy Mongoose, Small Clawed Otter, Dusky Striped Squirrel, and other animals. This rich biodiversity highlights the park's crucial role in the conservation of rare and endangered species.

 

Hydrological Significance: The park is regionally important for fish and freshwater since it has the tributaries of River Pambar in the east and tributaries of the River Periyar and Chalakuddy in the west. These water sources help to maintain the climate, provide drinking water, and supply water for irrigation in parts of the Aanjanad Valley. This hydrological significance underscores the park's importance in sustaining local communities and ecosystems.

 

Eravikulam National Park is home to the highest peak of the Indian Peninsula, Anamudi, which stands at 2695 meters and is also the highest peak in southern India. The park features sharp cliffs that create a flat tableland, contributing to a unique microclimate. Despite its tropical latitude, the park's altitude gives it an extratropical climate.

 

Eravikulam National Park is renowned for its medicinal plants, including Drosera peltata and wild species of cultivated plants such as Piper schmidtii and Elettaria cardamomum, which enhance its conservation significance

 

This region is a prime tourist spot, with the park being the main attraction of Munnar and a major tourist destination in India. The aesthetic grandeur of the forest provides an opportunity to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr up close, and the waterfall at Lakkam attracts more than 500,000 visitors annually.

 

The park, along with Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Pampadum Shola National Park, Kurinjimala Sanctuary, Anamudi Shola National Park, and Anamalai Tiger Reserve, forms one of the largest conservation landscapes in the Western Ghats region.

 

Additionally, the park offers academic opportunities to study the biodiversity of montane vegetation and the ecosystem's inner workings. It serves as a field laboratory for various activities, including conservation education, precipitation management, and research monitoring.

One of the highlights of Eravikulam National Park is its transportation options. The park has implemented efficient management systems to ensure convenient transport within its premises. The recommended modes of transportation to reach the park are:

 

● Flight: The airports closest to Eravikulam National Park are located in Cochin international Airport ( . From there, you can take a bus or drive to Munnar and then proceed to the park.

 

● Train: Aluva is the nearest railway station, which receives a high volume of trains from neighboring states. From here, you  can either take a bus or hire a cab to reach Munnar.

 

● Personal Car: Driving to the park is also a popular mode of transport as it allows for an enjoyable road trip with loved ones and creates memorable experiences along the way.

 

● Cab: To avoid any confusion in reaching the park, you can simply book a cab from reputable car rental companies in Munnar for a hassle-free journey.

 

Upon reaching 5th Mile, the entrance to the park, your mode of transport will be stopped. From here, mini buses provided by the park will take you into Rajamala, the tourism zone. A short one-kilometer walk from there will lead you to the area where Nilgiri Tahrs can be spotted.

  For taxi / tuk tuk booking and tour to eravikulam national park - Munnar info , Phone : +919400143111 , www.munnarinfo.in