The protected areas in Western Ghats is always a mysterious chapter with the richness of rare plants, trees, animals, birds and butterflies etc. These are all real fascinations to the nature lovers all over the world. Many travellers allure to the hill stations at Western Ghats to witness this charm close to their eyes. Even you would have wondered many times watching the charismatic photographs of Western Ghats. The protected areas in Western Ghats provides safe and comfortable habitat to these wild species of flora and fauna. Anamudi Shola National Park is in the Idukki District of Kerala and it includes Mannavan Shola, Idivara Shola and Pullardi Shola. The national park is spread in an area of 7.5 km² and is a treasure trove of many endemic wild organisms. This park is under the administration of Munnar Wildlife Division and the travellers reaching Munnar hill station usually find time to visit this fabulous protected area.

Anamudi Shola National Park in MunnarThis park receives high rainfall and this boost up the condition for wild species to exist and thrive. Located about 45 km from Munnar, this National Park is a real fascination to the nature lovers. The people reaching Munnar can plan a night stay at any better resorts and can visit this wonderful greenish paradise. Stupendous resorts and hotels are running in different parts of Munnar. SpiceTree Resort is an advisable boutique resort for any traveller especially couples. You can spot many rare animals and birds inside the park. October to March is the peak time to visit the park. Park is situated in Marayoor village in Devikulam Taluk. Marayoor is the only place in Kerala where sandalwood forest is protected. You can also visit Pambadum Shola National Park which is near to Anamudi Park. You will go excited to watch animals like elephants, tiger, bison etc. close to your eyes. Nilgiri Tahr which is an endangered animal can also be spotted at Anamudi Park.

Nilgiri tahr in the Anamudi Shola National Park, MunnarThe rich fauna of this park include Spotted Deer, Giant Grizzled Squirrel, Sambar, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Hanuman Langur, Jungle cat, Leopards, Wolves, Flying squirrels etc. Other than these fauna species, you can also see many rare trees, plants, herbs and shrubs at here. About 100 varieties of beautiful butterflies are the other attraction of this park. Parantica Nilgiriensis, a RET listed species of butterfly is seen in this park. The park is also a habitat for Neelakurinji plant that blooms once in 12 years. 200 species of moths are reported in this park area. Muthuvan tribes reside in the protected area. There are many more interesting and surprising facts about this wonderful national park. You should find enough time in your Munnar trip to visit this park and should learn them in real.

Jyothis Mp