Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife in Kerala
Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1975 in Idukki district and was primarily set up to preserve the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The Conservation History of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary dates back to the time of the British rule.
The North Travancore Land Planting Society owned the lands of Rajamalai and Eravikulam during the British Rule. Later the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Corporation took charge of the regions of Rajamalai and Eravikulam. Recognizing that these areas are not suitable for tea plantations, the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Corporation converted the areas into a private hunting district.
The region was entitled as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1936. But it was officially established as a Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1975. But later in 1978, it was given the status of a National Park.
This Wildlife Sanctuary houses the largest number of Nilgiri Tahr in the world. The highest peak in South India, the Anamudi Peak that towers over the sanctuary is the pride of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit :
September to May is the best time to visit Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.
Flora and fauna
The main vegetation in this national park is grasslands, shrub lands and the rain forests. The fauna of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala boasts of 26 different species of mammals which include famous Nilgiri Thar, Gaur, Indian Muntjac, Sambar, Golden Jackal, Jungle cat, Dhole, small clawed otter, Ruddy Mangoose, Leopards, Tigers and most important of all - the Elephants.
Apart from this there are about 132 species of birds that are found here that include Black and Orange Fly catcher, Nilgiri Pipit, Nilgiri Wood pigeon, hornbill etc. 101 species of butterflies and 19 species of amphibians have also been recorded in this park.
Opening Closing Time:
8 AM to 4:30 PM.
Entrance Fee:
For Indians - INR 90.
For Children - INR 65.
For Foreigners - INR 245.
Activities
The major activities that tourists enjoy here are trekking, camping, fishing and bird watching.
How to reach
By Air - Cochin International Airport and Coimbatore Airport are the nearest airports to Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary which are situated at a distance of 121 Km and 162.2 Km respectively.
By Rail - Aluva Railway Station is the nearest railway stations to Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 122.3 Km.
By Road - Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected to major cities of the country via road.