National Parks in Kerala You Must Visit

The mere mention of Kerala invokes a strong wanderlust among travelling souls. The entire state is liberally blessed with vast forests and there are different natural parks and sanctuaries. With every place unfolding an enchanted scenery right before you, you can start exploring God’s own country with some of the best national parks in the state.

Here is a list of 10 national parks in Kerala.

• Anamudi Shola National Park

Located in the Idukki district along the Western Ghats, the park is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Here you can spot Indian Bison, elephants, tigers, leopards, and other wild animals roaming freely in the wilderness. Make sure that you keep your camera ready to capture the animal. Also, ensure that you keep you a safe distance. Not just animals, the park also has other natural attractions like the Chinnar River, Pambar river, Thoovanam waterfall, and many more.

• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the rain shadow region of the magnificent Western Ghats, the Chinar wildlife sanctuary is quite close to Munnar. You can also encounter the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel here. The serene environment and the absolute silence in the wilderness would give an unforgettable experience. 

• Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park

One of the largest national parks in Kerala, the Eravikulam National Park is home to 26 species of mammals, including the Nilgiri tahr goat, an endangered species. Apart from the lush green grasslands, you can also find the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years.

• Pampadum Shola National Park

With an area of 1.318 Sq. Km, the mesmerising Pampadum Shola is the smallest national park in Kerala by area. The frondescence and the cloudy weather throughout the year make a perfect setting to plan picnics and treks with friends and families.

• Mathikettan Shola National Park

The vast forest lies between the Eravikulam national park and Pampadam Shola national park. The park is home to many exotic animals such as rat snakes, flying squirrels, spotted deers, elephants, panthers, etc. The park also has some excellent spots for bird watching.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

This breathtakingly beautiful sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Vembanad lake in the famed Kerala backwaters of the Kottayam district. A bird watcher's paradise, the place is regularly visited by numerous native and migratory birds. 

You can book a room at the Ramada, Allepy and visit the sanctuary from here. The beautiful resort is located on the banks of Punnamada lake and offers a range of activities for recreational and business travellers alike.

• Periyar Tiger Reserve

The biggest national park in Kerala is also India’s oldest tiger reserve and a famous tourist attraction of India. Situated at Thekkady, the sprawling tiger reserve is spread across the entire districts of Pathanamthitta and Idukki. Periyar lake is at the heart of the park. 

A natural habitat of tigers and majestic Indian elephants, the park is also home to many endangered species like Nilgiri Langurs, Lion-tailed Macaque, Stripe-necked mongoose and the extremely rare Nilgiri Marten. 

The Periyar Tiger Reserve is just a kilometre away from Club Mahindra Thekkady. You can also visit nearby places like spice garden, Gavi Eco-Tourism, Ayurveda clinics, etc. 

• Silent Valley National Park

Located in the Kundali Hills of the Western Ghats, the park is home to numerous animal and plant species. The river Kunthi descends from the Nilgiri hills and then passes through this rainforest, presenting an enchanting sight to the sore eyes.

• Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

An integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere, Muthunga is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad. Many exotic animals like civet cats, bears, panthers, Indian bison, elephants, etc., inhabit the dense forests here. If you are lucky, you can spot them while driving along the road.

• Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated 32 Km away from Thiruvananthapuram, you can explore the flora and fauna while going on a trek in the park. The nearby Neyyar dam is also a part of the sanctuary. Asian elephants, Slender loris, Travancore tortoise and King Cobra are some of the many animal species found here.

Check into Club Mahindra Poovar Resort to visit Neyyar wildlife sanctuary. Check out the refreshing pool and the aromatic treatments at Swastha Spa during your stay here.

The Kerala national parks in India are known for the vivid biodiversity they offer. You need to experience them through your own eyes to get hold of the Western Ghat's unbelievably beautiful natural riches.