Eravikulam National Park – Idukki
May 21, 2010 by admin
Filed under Eco Tourism, Eravikulam National Park - Idukki
Eravikulam National Park – Idukki
Eravikulam National Park is perched in between the Anamudi Peak and the Kanan Devan hills, which is a pictographic place.The Shola grassland over here is tremendously plentiful with orchids and balsams. The Neelakurinji flower (Phlebophyllum kunthianum), which is the rarest flower in India that blooms in every 12 years. Locals as well as travellers wait for the arrival of this moment of time, so that they could witness the enhanced beauty and charm of Munnar carpeted fully in lavender colour. We can also see a plethora of the red rhododendrons and flame of the forest here. An orchid named ‘Brachycorythis wightii’ which was thought to be extinct was recently rediscovered in this park.
There are 25 species of mammals among which 5 are endemic to the Western Ghats. More than 120 species of birds and 100 odd varieties of butterflies have been reported here. There are also the Atlas Moth and 20 species of amphibians which adorn the park.
The picturesque view of the valley from the park is really ebullient! However, the buffer areas are out of bounds for visitors. Even hiking is not permitted in these regions. Travellers are allowed only up to Rajamala, which is a high apex of rocky cliff that is approachable by vehicles. The Lakhom Falls trails provide a day trek from the waterfall to Pakkumarathery, where we can sight the wonderful and majestic Anamudi Peak. The Eravikulam Park offers opportunities for Rainbow Trout Angling.
Way to Eravikulam National Park
Location: The National Park is on the boundary line of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and Munnar.
Road: Munnar is the nearest town (13 km). Eravikulam is well connected by roads from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Aluva and Coimbatore Railway Station.
Air: Eravikulam is approachable from Cochin (148 kms) as well as Coimbatore (175 kms) Airports.