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Naikolli Mala mountain from Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park

Munnar, India

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Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance of Eravikulam National Park, Munnar

Date: 16/08/2024

Introduction

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, Eravikulam National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and historical significance. Established as a national park in 1978, it is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other diverse flora and fauna. The park’s history dates back to the colonial era when it served as a game reserve for British planters. Today, Eravikulam National Park is a protected area, drawing nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from around the world to its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. This guide offers a comprehensive overview, from the park’s storied history and conservation efforts to essential visitor information, ensuring a memorable visit to this remarkable destination (Munnar Tourism, Spice Tree Munnar, Wikipedia).

Table of Contents

Early Management and Colonial Era

Eravikulam National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. Initially, the area was managed as a game reserve by the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Company until 1971. The management and protection of this area were under the jurisdiction of the High Range Game Preservation Association, a non-governmental organization formed in 1928 (Munnar Tourism).

During the British colonial period, the lush landscapes of Eravikulam served as an exclusive playground for British planters. They frequented the region for hunting expeditions, where the pursuit of wildlife was not merely a recreational activity but a means of exploitation for profit and amusement. The park’s pristine wilderness became a backdrop for the reckless pursuit of game animals and the extraction of valuable natural resources (Spice Tree Munnar).

Establishment of the North Travancore Plantation and Agricultural Society

In 1879, early European explorers like Colonel Douglas Hamilton and J.D. Munro began settling in the area. They established the North Travancore Plantation and Agricultural Society, acquiring an area of 227 square miles at a concessional price from Poonjat Raja, the chief of the local kingdom. The land was subsequently auctioned among the society’s citizens for agriculture, and various plantation crops such as coffee and cinchona were cultivated (Munnar Tourism).

Transition to Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

The government of Kerala resumed control of the area in 1971 under the Kannan Devan Hill Produce (Resumption of Lands) Act, 1971. In 1975, the Eravikulam-Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary was declared to protect the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a highly endangered mountain goat species. This sanctuary was later upgraded to the status of a National Park in 1978 (Wikipedia).

Conservation Efforts and Modern Management

The transformation of Eravikulam from a hunting ground to a protected national park is a story of significant conservation triumph. The park now stands as a protected area, preserving the very species that were once hunted within its borders. The management of the park is currently handled by the High Range Wildlife Environmental Preservation Association, in collaboration with the Forest Department, with an intensive mission of protecting the Nilgiri Tahr (Munnar Tourism).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

The park is open from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM every day, but it is closed during the calving season of the Nilgiri Tahr (usually February to March).

Tickets

Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. The ticket prices are INR 125 for Indian adults, INR 95 for children, and INR 420 for foreign nationals.

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water, and bring a pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Munnar Historical Sites

Visit the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, all located near the park.

Guided Tours

Opt for guided tours to learn more about the park’s wildlife and history.

Photographic Spots

Don’t miss the panoramic views from Rajamala, where you can capture the beauty of the Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji flowers.

Key Historical Milestones

  • 1928: Formation of the High Range Game Preservation Association.
  • 1971: Government of Kerala resumes control under the Kannan Devan Hill Produce (Resumption of Lands) Act.
  • 1975: Declaration of the Eravikulam-Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • 1978: Upgradation to National Park status.

The Role of Early Conservation Efforts

The early conservation efforts in Eravikulam were pivotal in its transformation. The declaration of the area as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975 was a significant step towards protecting the Nilgiri Tahr. This move was followed by the establishment of the national park in 1978, which further strengthened the conservation measures. These efforts have been instrumental in preserving the park’s unique biodiversity and ensuring the survival of endangered species (Wikipedia).

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its success, Eravikulam National Park faces ongoing conservation challenges. The park’s management continues to focus on protecting its natural heritage through various initiatives. Sustainable tourism and responsible visitor experiences are at the core of these efforts, ensuring that the park remains a sanctuary for its diverse wildlife and a source of inspiration for future generations (Spice Tree Munnar).

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Eravikulam National Park?

The park is open from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM every day, but it is closed during the calving season of the Nilgiri Tahr (usually February to March).

How much do tickets cost for Eravikulam National Park?

Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. The ticket prices are INR 125 for Indian adults, INR 95 for children, and INR 420 for foreign nationals.

Conclusion

The history of Eravikulam National Park is a testament to the power of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural heritage. From its early days as a colonial hunting ground to its current status as a thriving national park, Eravikulam has undergone a remarkable transformation. The park’s success in preserving the Nilgiri Tahr and other endangered species serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of collective determination and shared responsibility in protecting our planet’s irreplaceable ecosystems.

Call to Action

Plan your visit to Eravikulam National Park and experience its rich history and natural beauty firsthand. Download the mobile app Audiala for more travel tips and updates, and follow us on social media for the latest news and information about this and other amazing destinations.

Ecological and Faunal Significance

Ecological Importance

Eravikulam National Park plays a crucial role in the region’s ecological balance. The park serves as a significant catchment area for several rivers, including the tributaries of the River Pambar, River Periyar, and River Chalakkudy. These rivers are vital for supplying drinking water to nearby estates and for irrigation purposes (StudyIQ).

The park’s topography is characterized by high rolling plateaus with elevations around 2000 meters above mean sea level. This unique landscape supports a mosaic of montane evergreen forests and grasslands, known as Shola forests. These forests are among the least disturbed sections of the rare Montane Shola-Grassland vegetation in the Western Ghats (StudyIQ).

Flora

Eravikulam National Park is home to a diverse range of plant species. The park’s vegetation is primarily composed of rolling grasslands interspersed with patches of Shola forests. Some significant plant species found here include Actinodaphne bourdilloni, Microtropis ramiflora, Pittosporum tetraspermium, Sysygium aronottianum, Chrysopogon Zelanieus, Eupatorium adenophorum, and Strobilanthus Kunthianus, commonly known as Neelakurinji (StudyIQ).

Neelakurinji is particularly noteworthy as it blooms once every twelve years, covering the hills in a mesmerizing blue hue. The next blooming is expected in 2030. The park also houses uncommon terrestrial and epiphytic orchids, wild balsams, and other plants. Epiphytes, which grow on other plants and derive nutrients from the air, rain, and accumulated debris, are also prevalent here (StudyIQ).

Fauna

Eravikulam National Park is renowned for its rich and diverse fauna. The park is home to 29 different species of mammals, five of which are unique to the Western Ghats. The most famous resident is the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), an endangered mountain goat. The park hosts the largest remaining population of this species, accounting for half of its global numbers (StudyIQ).

Other notable mammals include the Gaur, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Tiger, Leopard, Giant Squirrel, and wild canines. Civet cats and jungle cats are typically found in the Shola forests, while panthers are usually seen in the open grasslands. The park also supports a number of elephants, langurs, and martens (ExploreBees).

Avifauna

Eravikulam National Park is a haven for bird watchers, with 140 species of birds recorded, ten of which are unique to the Western Ghats. Some of the notable bird species include the Grey-breasted Laughingthrush (Garrulax jerdoni), Nilgiri Flycatcher (Eumyias albicaudata), and Black-and-Orange Flycatcher (Ficedula nigrorufa) (StudyIQ).

Insects and Amphibians

The park is also home to a variety of insects and amphibians. The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is a significant attraction. More than 100 species of butterflies have been identified in the park, adding to its biodiversity. Additionally, 20 different species of amphibians can be found here (ExploreBees).

Conservation Efforts

Eravikulam National Park was initially declared a sanctuary in 1975 to protect the indigenous population of the Nilgiri Tahr. In 1978, it was designated as a national park due to its ecological, faunal, geomorphological, and zoological significance (StudyIQ). The park is managed by the Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife, Munnar, and various conservation programs are in place to protect its unique flora and fauna (ExploreBees).

Cultural Significance and History

The cultural significance of Eravikulam National Park is deeply intertwined with the history and traditions of the local communities. The park has been a vital part of the livelihood and cultural heritage of the native tribes, who have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries. Historical records and oral traditions highlight the importance of the park’s flora and fauna in traditional medicine, rituals, and daily life.

Visitor Tips

For those planning to visit Eravikulam National Park, here are some practical tips:

  • Visiting Hours: The park is open from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. It is advisable to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and increase the chances of wildlife sightings.
  • Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the park entrance. Booking online is recommended to avoid long queues (Wanderon).
  • Travel Tips: Comfortable walking shoes, water bottles, and light snacks are essential. Binoculars and cameras are recommended for wildlife and bird watching.
  • Things Not Allowed: Littering, smoking, and loud noises are strictly prohibited to maintain the park’s ecological balance.
  • Nearby Attractions: Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Rajmala Hills and Nayamakad Waterfall (ExploreBees).

Best Photographic Spots

Eravikulam National Park offers numerous picturesque locations for photography enthusiasts. The rolling grasslands, blooming Neelakurinji, and panoramic views from the peaks provide excellent backdrops for stunning photographs. The Shola forests and river catchment areas are also ideal for capturing the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Conclusion

Eravikulam National Park stands as a testament to the power of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural heritage. From its beginnings as a colonial hunting ground to its current status as a thriving national park, Eravikulam has undergone a remarkable transformation. The park’s success in preserving the Nilgiri Tahr and other endangered species serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of collective determination in protecting our planet’s irreplaceable ecosystems. Visitors can immerse themselves in the park’s rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. For more travel tips and updates, download the mobile app Audiala or follow us on social media (Munnar Tourism, Spice Tree Munnar, Wikipedia).

References

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