Eravikulam National Park: A Diligent Travel Guide For Hikers!

Kerala is most commonly referred to as God’s Own Country, due to its natural beauty and hidden gems. It is famous for its clean beaches, backwaters, mountain ranges, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. One of the most beautiful national parks of Kerala is the Eravikulam National Park. 

Eravikulam National Park, also known as Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the first national parks that was established in Kerala in 1978. It is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site because it houses a huge range of flora and fauna. This place is popular for the special Nilgiri Tahrs and some other species of indigenous animals.

Location

Eravikulam National Park is the first national park that is spread over an area of 97 km² in God’s own country i.e., Kerala. It is located along the Idukki district’s summit of the South Western Ghats in the Kannan Devan Hills. Neelakurinji, a flower that blooms just once every twelve years, also grows in this region. It is situated between 10°05’N, 10°20’S, 77°0’W, and 77°10’S.

Climatic Conditions

Kerala experiences an equatorial topic climate featuring wet maritime and heavy rainfall throughout the year. Therefore, the Eravikulam National Park experiences all types of weather throughout the year. 

• Summer Season: From the end of March till the month of June, the summer season takes place in Kerala. During this time, you can spot a variety of species of indigenous animals and flowers. The minimum and maximum temperature ranges between 24° Celsius to 35° Celsius respectively.
• Monsoon Season: The monsoon season in Kerala takes place from the month of June till September. The early rainfall enhances the beauty of the Eravikulam National Park. But, during heavy rainfalls, the park remains closed for all. The temperature ranges between 23° Celsius to 31.5° Celsius. 
• Winter Season: Winters in Kerala start from the end of October till the month of February. The temperature ranges between 23° Celsius to 30° Celsius during this season which makes the atmosphere feel like you are walking on a misty blanket and trespassing on rich green pasture.

Best Time To Visit Eravikulam National Park

The best time to visit the Eravikulam National Park is during the end of the monsoon season i.e., September to October, and the start of the summer season i.e., the months of April to May due to its pleasant weather. These months are best for exploring this place as you will be able to spot Nilgiri Tahr and the full-blooming grasslands. The abundance of lush green meadows creates a lovely setting for the wonderful nature walk pathways.

Top Attractions in Eravilum National Park

Kurinji Trail

Kurinji Trail is one of the best trekking areas through the route of Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji grasslands. It is a three-hour trek with beautiful flora and fauna which enhances the scenic view of this place. One has to pay around Rs. 290 per person and around Rs. 560 per person for Indians and Foreigners respectively for trekking here. 

Lakkom Waterfalls

Lakkom Waterfalls is one of the top attractions in the Eravikulam National Park, Kerala. The beautiful cascade of this waterfall originates from the east-flowing river Pambar. It has crystal-clear water which enhances the beauty of this place. A fee of Rs. 20 per person is charged for exploring this gorgeous beauty near the Eravikulam National Park.

Cascade Walk

Cascade Walk is a short one-hour trek around the gorgeous Lakkom Waterfalls. One can trek in the morning and evenings at their convenience. The fresh air with the fragrance of wild pour through the track of Shola forests will make you fall in love with this hidden gem. A fee of Rs. 100 per person is to be paid for this cascade walk.

Anaimudi

Anaimudi Peak, popularly known as the pride of Kerala, is one of the highest peaks with a height of 2695 meters above the level. The term “Anaimudi” means “Elephants Foreheads.” This peak is home to the largest Asian Elephants population in India. When you pay for the Eravikulam National Park, the fee for exploring Anaimudi is also included. 

Rajamalai

One of the popular tourist destinations near Eravikulam National Park is Rajamalai. It is very popular because one can spot the famous Nilgiri Tahr here. This place provides an authentic and interesting experience of the Shola and Kurinji grassland ecosystem. It is open for tourists from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the year except for the months of February and March. 

How To Reach Eravikulam National Park?

Eravikulam National Park can be reached via various modes of transportation such as roadways, railways, or airways.

• Cochin International Airport which is around 135 km far away is the nearest airport for reaching the Eravikulam National Park. This airport is connected domestically as well as internationally on regular basis. 
• Aluva Railway Station and the Angamali Railway Station which are 109 km and 108 km far away respectively are the two closest stations to reaching the Eravikulam National Park.
• There are a lot of public and private bus operators offering bus services to reach Kerala. KSRTC takes care of road connectivity with all the major neighboring states of India. 

After reaching the airport or railway station of Kerala, one can opt to hire a taxi or take a local bus to Munnar. Then, a lot of direct buses and autos go to the national park at regular intervals.

Food and Accommodation

If you are in Kerala, then it is a must to try the famous delicacies in their traditional manner including Palada Payasam, Thalassery biryani, Appam with stew, Puttu Kadala curry, Kerala prawn curry, Karikku dosa, Erissery curry, and others. You can try the Rapheek restaurant, Kanji Kada, Pundachi mukk, and any other restaurant for these dishes. 

Some of the best accommodation options for individuals visiting the Eravikulam National Park near Munnar in Kerala include Grand Plaza, Zostel Munnar, Le Celestium, The Panoramic Getaway, Kurinji Wanderlust Munnar, etc. 

Things to remember while visiting Eravikulum National Park

• Wear comfortable clothes and footwear while exploring this place.
• Purchase your tickets in advance to stay ahead of the crowds. 
• Visit the place in the early morning for the best scenic views.
• Separate fees for the camera are charged in this park.
• Don’t litter any sort of waste in the park as it’s a plastic, clutter, and cruelty-free zone.

What are you thinking to know? Don’t waste much of your time researching anymore about this place. If you are a travel enthusiast, nature lover, as well as an adventurist, this is a perfect place for you!!! So, pack your bags and explore this hidden gem of Kerala.

Read More:

Discover The National Parks In Kerala!

Explore Top Trekking Places In Kerala The God’s Own Country!