Anamudi Shola National Park Kerala – Wildlife, Trekking & Travel Guide

Nestled in the misty hills of Idukki district, Anamudi Shola National Park is one of Kerala’s most ecologically sensitive protected areas. Located near Munnar, this compact yet biodiverse park preserves fragile montane shola forests and high-altitude grasslands of the Western Ghats.

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Shola offers a quieter, research-oriented, and conservation-focused wilderness experience. 

Overview of Anamudi Shola National Park

• Location: Idukki District, Kerala

• Declared National Park: 2003

• Area: Approximately 7.5 sq km

• Altitude: 1,200–2,000 meters above sea level

• Ecosystem Type: Montane shola-grassland system

The park forms part of the larger Western Ghats landscape, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage biodiversity region.

Unique Shola-Grassland Ecosystem

Anamudi Shola protects:

• Dense evergreen shola forests

• Rolling high-altitude grasslands

• Clear mountain streams

• Rare medicinal and endemic plant species

Shola forests are stunted evergreen forests found in valley folds, surrounded by grasslands. These ecosystems are climate-sensitive and support species found nowhere else in the world.

The park also contributes to watershed protection, feeding streams that sustain downstream communities.

Wildlife at Anamudi Shola National Park

Despite its small size, the park supports significant biodiversity.

Key Mammals

• Nilgiri Tahr (occasionally sighted in higher grasslands)

• Indian Gaur

• Sambar Deer

• Leopard

• Wild Boar

Rare and Endemic Species

• Nilgiri Marten

• Nilgiri Langur

• Malabar Giant Squirrel

The dense vegetation provides ideal habitat for elusive Western Ghats fauna.

Birdlife and Biodiversity

Anamudi Shola is important for endemic bird species such as:

• Nilgiri Flycatcher

• Black-and-Orange Flycatcher

• Kerala Laughingthrush

• Malabar Whistling Thrush

The park’s montane climate and forest structure make it a valuable site for biodiversity research.

Best Time to Visit Anamudi Shola National Park

October to March is the ideal period for visiting.

• Pleasant, cool weather

• Clear trekking conditions

• Lush post-monsoon greenery

• Improved wildlife visibility

Monsoon months (June–September) bring heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and access limited.

Trekking and Eco-Tourism

Anamudi Shola does not offer commercial jeep safaris. Instead, it focuses on low-impact eco-tourism:

• Guided forest treks (with prior permission)

• Nature interpretation walks

• Biodiversity study tours

• Photography expeditions

Tourism is carefully regulated by the Kerala Forest Department to protect fragile ecosystems.

How to Reach Anamudi Shola National Park

By Air

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (approx. 130 km)

By Rail

Nearest railway station: Aluva or Ernakulam

By Road

Accessible from:

• Munnar (around 40 km)

• Marayoor

• Udumalpet (Tamil Nadu)

The park can be conveniently combined with a Munnar hill station itinerary.

Conservation Importance

Anamudi Shola plays a vital role in:

• Protecting endangered Western Ghats species

• Preserving fragile montane forests

• Maintaining watershed systems

• Preventing habitat fragmentation

Its small size makes conservation management particularly focused on strict habitat protection and limited human interference.

Why Visit Anamudi Shola National Park?

Choose Anamudi Shola if you are looking for:

• Offbeat national parks in Kerala

• Rare endemic wildlife

• Quiet trekking experiences

• Untouched high-altitude forests

• A peaceful alternative to crowded wildlife reserves

It is ideal for eco-conscious travelers and biodiversity enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Anamudi Shola National Park open year-round?

It is generally accessible year-round, but October to March is the best season.

2. Are safaris available in Anamudi Shola?

No jeep safaris are offered. The park is explored mainly through guided treks.

3. How far is Anamudi Shola from Munnar?

It is approximately 40 km from Munnar.

4. What makes Anamudi Shola unique?

Its protected shola-grassland ecosystem and rare endemic Western Ghats species make it ecologically significant.

Conclusion

Anamudi Shola National Park stands as one of Kerala’s most delicate yet valuable conservation landscapes. With its dense shola forests, endemic wildlife, and serene mountain environment, it represents the true essence of Western Ghats biodiversity.

For travelers planning a high-range Kerala itinerary, combining Anamudi Shola with Eravikulam and Munnar offers a balanced experience of wildlife, trekking, and scenic beauty—while supporting sustainable and responsible eco-tourism.