Home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr, here's why Eravikulam National Park is a must-visit in Kerala

Home to endangered Nilgiri Tahr, here's why Eravikulam National Park is a must-visit in Kerala (Image: Canva)

In the high ranges of Kerala’s Idukki district, where the Western Ghats ascend into rolling grasslands and mist-laden sholas, lies Eravikulam National Park—a protected area of exceptional ecological significance. Renowned for its thriving population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this 97-square-kilometre sanctuary remains one of southern India’s finest examples of conservation in action.

Eravikulam, which forms the core of the Nilgiri Tahr’s last major habitat, is situated a mere 13 kilometres from the hill town of Munnar, making it both geographically accessible and ecologically distinct. Its elevation, ranging from 1,200 metres to over 2,600 metres above sea level, supports a unique ecosystem of montane grasslands interspersed with shola forests—habitats that harbour rare and endemic species.

A Refuge for the Rare

The park is home to over 820 Nilgiri Tahrs (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), a species of wild mountain goat found only in the southern Western Ghats. Their numbers, once perilously low, have seen a modest recovery due to sustained protection efforts. Visitors to the Rajamalai tourism zone—the only section of the park open to the public—can observe these elusive animals grazing along ridges and steep slopes, particularly in the early morning hours.

A Floral Phenomenon: The Neelakurinji Bloom

Eravikulam is also synonymous with the Neelakurinji flower (Strobilanthes kunthiana), a rare plant species that blossoms en masse once every twelve years, transforming the hillsides into a carpet of violet-blue. This spectacle, last witnessed in 2018, is expected to return in 2030, and continues to attract both botanists and tourists eager to witness nature’s rhythmic grandeur.

A Landscape of Geological and Cultural Significance

Towering above the park is Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India at 2,695 metres. Though summit access is restricted, the surrounding ridges offer panoramic views of Kerala’s highlands and provide a habitat for diverse wildlife, including Nilgiri langurs, gaurs, and a variety of endemic butterflies, amphibians, and birds.

The park forms part of the UNESCO-listed Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity. Conservation here is not merely a government mandate but a shared responsibility among local communities, the Forest Department, and ecotourism operators.

Responsible Tourism at Its Core

Unlike many tourist destinations burdened by overexposure, Eravikulam has embraced a controlled tourism model. Access to the park is regulated, and transportation within is restricted to electric shuttle buses. These practices not only reduce the ecological footprint but also ensure a quieter, more reflective experience for the visitor.

The park remains closed annually from February to April during the Nilgiri Tahr calving season, a decision made to safeguard the species’ fragile breeding cycle.

Accessibility and Nearby Attractions

Eravikulam’s proximity to Munnar makes it a convenient inclusion in any Kerala travel itinerary. Those exploring the region can also visit nearby sites such as the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station, and the Kundala Lake. Together, they form a compelling mosaic of natural beauty, colonial heritage, and cultural depth.

When to Visit

The best time to experience the park is from September to November and April to May, when the skies are clear, the temperatures are mild, and the flora is at its lushest. Though the Neelakurinji bloom remains an infrequent event, the park’s year-round appeal lies in its serenity, scenic beauty, and rare wildlife sightings.

Eravikulam National Park is far more than a scenic outing near Munnar. It is a living repository of the Western Ghats’ unique ecology and a successful example of how sustainable tourism and conservation can coexist. For travellers seeking a deeper engagement with India’s natural heritage, this park offers an experience that is both enriching and enduring.