Nestled in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is the best place to get close to nature and explore the multitude of wildlife. Walking into the depth of forest to have a close encounter with big cats and majestic felines. This can happen only here, the 500 species of animals, birds, and reptiles that call it home, helps us make our dream come true. The reserve has some of the most stunning landscapes, but what makes it fascinating is to watch the wildlife in its natural surroundings.
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A Little More About The Tiger Reserve
The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve also known as the Mudumalai National Park was founded in 1940 and spread across 322 square kilometers of avid wildlife. The park is declared the Tiger Reserve as it is renowned for the number of tigers (approximately 103).
Things To Do At The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Whenever you get a chance to visit Mudumalai National Park, make sure to experience the below activities as they are sure to make your trip a memorable one.
Go On A Jungle Safari
The Mudumalai jungle safari offers one of the best wildlife safaris. Here you can witness the plethora of species in its natural habitat. The Forest Department arranges safaris via buses, jeeps, and Mazda that take you through the best parts of the reserve. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the majestic felines like tigers, leopards, and panthers that dwell in the cores of the jungle.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Visit The Theppakadu Elephant Camp
One of the oldest camps in India, the Theppakadu Elephant Camp was established in 1927. Visitors can watch the gentle herbivores being trained, fed, and bathed. The trained elephants take the visitors on a joyride. If you have the time, take a tour of the jungle, and engage in relief and rescue activities.
Timings: 8:30 am – 9:00 am and from 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm.
Camp At The Reserve
If you love camping, the Mudumalai National Park offers some of the best camping sites in nature’s abode. Put up your tent on the designated camping sites, and enjoy under the dazzling starry night sky with your family and friends.
Relax At The Moyar River
Tourists can enjoy a relaxing time by the Moyar River which allows its visitors to take a break from the wildlife and enjoy a peaceful time. The captivating river treats its visitors with a serene and soothing view of the mesmerizing landscape of the park.
Go Hiking In The Woods
The Mudumalai National Park offers its visitors multiple thrilling hiking trails that range from various preferences and fitness levels.
- Moyar River Trek: The Moyar River trekking route is comparatively easy and allows you to explore the various species of flora and fauna. Enjoy the serene landscape along the captivating riversides of the mesmerizing Moyar River.
- Elephant Corridor Trek: The Elephant Corridor Trek is a rather challenging route, but as the name suggests, it is known for its elephant sightings.
- Masinagudi Jungle Trek: If you are seeking a rip-roaring adventure, the Masinagudi Jungle Trek is best as it takes you through the core of the jungle.
Bird Watching
The Mudumalai National Park is a bird utopia where you can explore a variety of bird species. Witness over 200 species of birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Flycatcher, and majestic black Eagle, to name a few.
Suggested Reads: The Grand Gala Of Nagarhole National Park
How To Reach?
Location:
NH 67, Gudalur NH 67, Gudalur, Devarshola, Tamil Nadu, 643223, India
By Flight:
The nearest airport to the Tiger reserve is Coimbatore Airport at Peelamedu which is 86.4 km apart. The distance to the other nearby airports are
- Distance from Calicut Airport: 124 km.
- Distance from Kochi Airport: 160 km.
You can reach the airport from various parts of the world as domestic and international airline services like Air India, Air Asia, etc provide a comfortable commute.
By Road:
The interlinked roads leading to the stunning Park are well-maintained which makes it convenient for tourists planning to travel by bus or drive their car. The Mudumalai National Park is on the Mysore-Ooty road, which is 87 km from Mysore and 45 km from Ooty. For visitors traveling by road, the distance from the nearby places are:
Gudalur distance: 3.7 km
Wayanad: 62 km
Distance from Bangalore: 240 km
By Cab/Taxi:
If you are visiting for the first time, it is advisable to book a cab from the various car rental services to guide you through the best tourist spots. Renting a cab via cab rental services will allow you to stop and enjoy the stunning diversity of the hillside, tea plantations, and lush greenery on the way.
Price: INR 2800 approximately.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Mudumalai National Park is Udagamandalam railway station, which is 90 km apart. This rail route serves various parts of the country by providing a comfortable commute to the Park.
Best Time To Visit Mudumalai National Park
Summer
The summer months from March to May are hot and dry days with pleasant nights. This is the ideal time to go on jungle safari to witness the sightings of a variety of species that roam at their will.
Monsoon
June to November is the monsoon season where occasional and intermittent rain showers are common. This is not the ideal time to visit the Park as you cannot go on a jungle safari as the rains make it an uncomfortable experience.
Winter
The best time to visit the Tiger reserve is during the winters of December to February. The days are soothing with clear blue skies and nights are cold but it wouldn’t harm you if you carry your warm clothings along the journey.
Mudumalai Reserve Timings
The Mudumalai National Park opens for its visitors at 6:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM.
Mudumalai National Park Ticket Prices
Entry fee: INR 30
Still Camera: INR 53
Video Camera: INR 315
Bus safari: INR 340 per person
Jeep safari: INR 4200 per trip
Elephant safari: INR 1120 per trip
Book your tickets for Mudumalai wildlife heaven from Bangalore here.
Tips For Visiting Mudumalai National Park
- Don’t get down from the vehicle during the safari, as the big felines and elephants roam at free will in the park.
- Be wary of the weather as the intermittent rain showers make it difficult to go on a jungle safari.
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues.
- Don’t tease or cause any kind of harm to the animals.
- Speeding, blowing of horn or spot lights are prohibited.
So now that you know it all, embark on a thrilling adventure journey to Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. If we have missed out anything, do let us know about it in the comment section below.
FAQ
The Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. The nearest city to the park is Gudalur, which is 3.7 km away.
The Theppakadu Elephant Camp is one of the oldest elephant camps and is home to 28 elephants and 2 calves.
Where you can uncover more than 500 species of animals, birds, and other wildlife species, it is definitely worth the visit. If you are an avid nature lover or a thrill-seeking adventurer, this tiger reserve is the perfect destination for you.
The visitors can feed the elephants and their calves between 8:30 am to 9:00 am and 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Ensure to book your tickets in advance through the online portals or by visiting the ticket counter at the park.
Yes, elephant safari is available in Mudumalai. Go on an elephant safari to explore the forest, and if you are lucky enough, you can spot the majestic felines.
The Mudumalai National Parkis is home to 103 majestic felines and hence this reserve has got the tag of having the highest population of tigers in Tamil Nadu.
