Up on the Kannan Devan Hills spread over the Idukki and Ernakulam districts of Kerala, sits a serene place, amidst the opulent green of Mother Nature’s loving embrace, calling forth those who enjoy the beauties hidden away in nature to partake in the true joy of the wildlife. This place answers to the name of the Eravikulam National Park, a must visit for nature lovers.

Eravikulam National Park, part of the tall peaks of the Western Ghats, is known far and wide for the sanctuary it has always been to the large population of Nilgiri Tahrs who call it home. Often do tourists visit the place on their way from Munnar. People make their way towards the Eravikulam National Park in hopes of setting sights of the majestic Nilgiri Tahrs, who prance here without a care in the world, a rarity seldom spotted anywhere else. But that is not the only attraction in a place as beautiful as this when Mother Nature’s at play. In this place does one get to revel in the splendour of the Neelakurinji flowers which bloom only once every 12 years. It seems otherworldly indeed, the sights within the forests as the flowers blossom and carpet the hills of Munnar with the shades of pink and lilac. The last this magical phenomenon was observed was in 2018, and the next predicted opportunity of witnessing it is in 2030.

Vehicles offer their services as they take you through the dirt paths of the hills and give one the chance to be engrossed in the exquisiteness of one’s surroundings, adorned by the different species indigenous to the Western Ghats.

The Eravikulam National Park is also home to the highest peak in the entirety of South India, the Anamudi peak, towering over the green expanse at a height of 2695 metres. Thus has it been dubbed with the title ‘Everest of South India’. 

Eravikulam National Park covers a vast area of 97 square kilometres. With its vast range of flora and fauna, seen only amidst the dense forests which occupy the Western Ghats, and the wonders of the different spectacles that one gets to witness in all its glory, there is much that would excite tourists eager for an adventure. 

Echo Point : Crowds gather excitedly at this spot to not only admire the flora and the fauna that one can truly experience the enchantment of, but also the phenomenon of one’s voice echoing back, as the name suggests.

Rajamalai region : This is the only part of the Eravikulam National Park where you may be able to set sights on the Nilgiri tahrs among the three areas the park has been divided into. The Park observes strict rules and regulations to help ensure that the place continues to remain a haven for this species and that no harm comes to them, owing to the threat of endangerment in the past. This is a safe tourist zone to let those interested see the Nilgiri tahrs, but other two areas such as the Core Area and Buffer Area are restricted.

Lakkom Log House : Beckoning tired travellers to enjoy resting amidst the sounds of the gushing waterfalls and the music of the birds is the Lakkom Log House, hidden away amidst the Shola Forests. It is the ideal place to enjoy the entirety of the Eravikulam National Park to the fullest and sleep peacefully in a calm and quiet spot.

Trekking Trails

Kurinji Trail : This three hour trek takes you past the paths treaded often by the Nilgiri tahr, through the dewy grass. It is scheduled for the morning and evening hours only.

Lakkom Waterfalls : Lakkom Waterfalls offer an absolutely breathtaking view of the water cascading down from the hills at the very heart of the Eravikulam National Park. It is easily accessible for tourists and stands proud by the road leading from Munnar to Marayoor.

Cascade Walk : Would you perhaps be interested in not just enjoying the view of the Lakkom Waterfalls, but also treading alongside it? Breathing in the crisp and refreshing air of the Shola forests as you hike up the paths, the scenic views painting a beautiful background as you stand tall, almost as if you were on top of the world? Then the Cascade Walk is the trek meant for you!

A Point to Note 
Eravikulam National Park will be closed in the months of February to March every year as it the calving season of the Nilgiri tahr. Thus, keeping their best interests in mind, the Park does not allow tourists for visits.