Anamudi Shola National Park is a beautiful protected area located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is part of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs along the western coast of India. The park is named after Anamudi, the highest peak in peninsular India, which is located within its borders.
The park is relatively small, covering only about 7.5 square kilometers, but it is home to a rich variety of plant and animal life. The park is composed of three shola forests: Mannavan shola, Idivara shola and Pullardi shola. Shola forests are a type of evergreen forest found in the higher elevations of the Western Ghats. They are characterized by a dense canopy of trees, a moist understory, and a carpet of ferns and mosses on the forest floor.
The park is home to around 174 species of herbs and shrubs, 62 species of trees and around 40 species of climbers, many of which are endemic to the region. Some of the animals that can be found in the park include the Nilgiri tahr, the Indian elephant, the gaur, the lion-tailed macaque, and the Indian leopard.
While treking isn't permitted inside the park itself, there are other eco-tourism activities available nearby. You can enjoy a jeep safari through the forest, visit a fruit garden with apple, orange, plum, and kiwi trees, or go for a boat ride on Kundala Dam.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are planning a visit to Anamudi Shola National Park:
- The park is located about 45 kilometers from Munnar, a popular hill station in Kerala.
- The park is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to May.
- The park is a protected area, so visitors must obtain a permit before entering. Permits can be obtained from the Munnar Wildlife Division office.
- There are no facilities inside the park, so visitors should come prepared with food, water, and sunscreen.
- Since trekking isn't allowed, be sure to choose other activities offered nearby.