Mukurthi National Park is one of the famous national park of Tamil Nadu state. It was also known as Tahr National Park. Located in the western part of the Nilgiri Plateau in Ooty in the south-Indian state of Tamil Nadu, this park is spread over an area of 78.46 square kilometres. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 as the home of fauna and flora. Mukurthi Park is famous for its protected reserves of several endangered wildlife such as the Asiatic Elephant and the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Most of the landscape in this reserve is covered with shrubs and mountain meadows. Which presents a very beautiful sight to behold. Overall, Mukurthi Park is one such park that mesmerizes the tourists with the natural beauty along with the wildlife. If you want to get more information about this national park, then definitely read our article completely. So let’s start telling detailed information about it.
Table of Contents
History of Mukurthi National Park
Mukurthi Park, located in the south-western tip of Tamil Nadu, was first declared a wildlife sanctuary on 3 August 1982 and was converted into a national park on 15 October 1990 to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. After that the park has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 due to its natural beauty and protection of various endangered species.
Best Time To Visit Mukurthi National Park
The best time to visit Mukurthi Park is the winter season i.e. in the month of October to February. Because during these months the region receives a moderate temperature. Which is favorable for tourism. Apart from this, the chance of seeing wildlife in winter also increases. Because during this time wildlife is often seen sunbathing and roaming. And tourists can have a lot of fun in their journey.
Tips To Visit Mukurthi National Park
It is important to follow some tips to avoid accidents and troubles while traveling to the National Park.
You must carry your own sleeping bag and rucksack while going on trekking.
Even if the forest department or the travel organizers offer to provide these to you.
For national park trip, take basic medicine and first aid box with you.
Carry suitable trekking clothing such as track pants, jacket and trekking shoes while visiting the national park.
While trekking, walk with the group or else you can go astray.
Do take a camera with you to capture the beautiful views of the park.
Do not attempt to feed or approach any animals in the park.
Mukurthi National Park Timings And Entry Fee
Talking about the timing of Mukurthi Park, this park is open from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm. Apart from that the park is closed on every Tuesday. The entry fee of Mukurthi National Park includes Rs.15 per person for adult tourists, Rs.10 for children aged 5-12 years, Rs.15 for camera, Rs.25 for video camera and Rs.15 for car and motor bike when it comes to parking. A fee of Rs.5 has been kept.
Wildlife And Flora In Mukurthi National Park
Mukurthi National Park Spread over an area of 78.46 square kilometers, Mukurthi Park is rich in variety of flora and fauna found in Mukurthi Park. This park has the highest number of Shola and Rhododendron trees. But Arides crispa, Area abliflora and Oberonia santapoui are some of the orchids found there. Other important flower species in the park include wild yellow raspberries, Gutharia fergidinicma, cinnamon, Mahonia leshenaultii and Satrium nepali, to name a few.
Mukurthi Park is a conservation site for endangered wildlife like the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Tahr and the Asian Elephant. According to a census conducted in 2007, there were 200 tahrs in the park. There were 60 new or young tahrs. Tourists can see wildlife species like mouse deer, otter, wild cat, small Indian civet, wild dog, jackal, black colored rabbit and ostrich while visiting the park. A large bird population and colorful butterflies are part of the park. and is home to many species of reptiles.
Trekking And Camping At Mukurthi National Park
Trekking tours are organized within the park to create awareness about forest conservation and promote tourism. This trekking route leads to Mukarthi Peak, which is the highest peak in the forest area. Places like Anaikatty, Mudimund, Sipara, Western Catchment, Moyer and Silent Valley are filled with exciting yet mesmerizing views. The trekking routes range from 8 km to 60 km. The trek takes place for a group of 20 participants at a time. Necessary facilities such as tents, cooks, guides and food arrangements are provided to complete the trekking. Trekkers have to bring sleeping bags and rucksacks for camping.
Places To Visit Around Mukurthi National Park
Botanical Garden
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Ooty Lake
lovely waterfall
Kamaraj Sagar Lake
Murugan Temple
Fernhill Palace
Needle View Hillpoint
Doddabetta Peak
Golf club
Kalahatti Waterfall
Rose Garden
Hotels in Ooty
Al Woodlands Residency
Jungle Hut
Beverly villa
Teanest by Nature Resorts
The Serai Bandipur
Gateway Coonoor – IHCL SeleQtions
Sandalo Castle Resorts
Hanging Huts Resorts
Singaras Coffee Country
The Birdhouse Backpackers Hostel
How To Reach Mukurthi National Park Ooty
Mukurthi Park, located 80 km from Ooty, is connected to all the cities of the state and India through Ooty. Traveling to the park From the airport or railway station, you can take a taxi or bus to the park. The nearest airport to the National Park is Coimbatore Airport. Which is 145 km from the park. Traveling to the national park by road is quite easy and comfortable. Mettupalayam railway station is the nearest railway station to the park. Which is located 113 km away from the park.
Mukurthi National Park Map
Video of Mukurthi National Park
Interesting Facts
This park was also known as Tahr National Park.
The park is located in the western part of the Nilgiri Plateau in Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
Mukurthi Park has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
The park is famous for the Asiatic Elephant and the Royal Bengal Tiger, along with several endangered wildlife.
The National Park mesmerizes the travelers with the natural beauty.
Mukurthi Park is one of the famous park of Tamil Nadu.
The area was declared a wildlife sanctuary on 3 August 1982.
FAQ
Q .Which state is Mukurthi National Park in?
Tamil Nadu
Q .Is Mukurthi National Park open?
Yes, Opening hours are between 9 AM and 5:30 PM, every day of the week, except Tuesday.
Q .Why Mukurthi national park is famous?
The endangered wildlife is famous for its protected reserves of animals such as the Asian elephant and the Royal Bengal tiger.
Q .In which district is Mukurthi National Park?
Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu
Q .Which river flows through Mukurthi National Park?
Bhavani River.
Q .In which state is Silent Valley in India?
Kerala
Conclusion
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