Eravikulam National Park is famous for two species, a fauna and a flora. The Park holds the largest viable population, estimated at about 750, of the endangered (IUCN) Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius).
The special flora is a shrub locally called neelakurunji (Phlebophyllum kunthianum). We missed the spectacular mass flowering which takes place in the grasslands in cycles of the 12yrs. The last neelakurunji 'outburst' was in the year 2006. However, there are some small flowers spotted.
Why did I say it was well managed?
- The park is closed to private vehicles. Tourists can only board one of the six mini buses up to the plateau.
- The tourist guide on the bus briefs the tourists as the bus negotiates itself up the plateau. In our case, the bus stopped mid-way to enable us to view a herd of elephants about one kilometre away.
- There is an educational centre called "Story of the Park" at the peak area.
- Littering is banned inside the park. This may be normal for all parks, but there are security guards asking you to open your bag to check and ensure that you do not bring any plastic bag or bottle into the park.
- Well formed security wing is working to protect the park day and night.
It was an enjoyable trip. We put up a night in the town of Munnar, a beautiful getaway landscaped with tea plantations, hills, lakes, forests and winding walks located at an altitude of 1,829 metre before desending the Eravikulam National Park the next day.
The mini bus
The bus stop up the plateau
Dr Tneoh high up with clouds
More Nilgiri tahrs
