Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is home to some of the most biodiverse national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the country. As a wildlife artist and traveler, I find this region fascinating due to its unique mix of tropical forests, Western Ghats mountain ecosystems, and Ramsar-listed wetlands. Exploring Kerala’s national parks means encountering rare species like the Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, and Bengal tiger in their natural habitats.
Key Points
- Kerala has six national parks, along with multiple wildlife sanctuaries and Ramsar wetlands.
- Periyar National Park is the largest and most famous, known for its tiger and elephant population.
- The Western Ghats in Kerala are a UNESCO World Heritage site, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
All the Kerala National Parks
Kerala is home to a combination of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, and Ramsar wetlands.
Here are the most significant ones:
1. Periyar National Park
Periyar National Park is the most well-known wildlife reserve in Kerala, covering 925 sq km. It is renowned for its large elephant population and is also one of the most important tiger reserves in India. The heart of the park is Periyar Lake, where boat safaris offer excellent opportunities to see wildlife, including otters, gaurs, and several species of deer. Guided treks and bamboo rafting experiences provide a closer look at the wild side of the area.
2. Eravikulam National Park
Located in the high-altitude region of Munnar, Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a species of mountain goat found only in the Western Ghats. This park is known for its rolling grasslands, shola forests, and stunning views of Anamudi Peak, the highest mountain in South India. Every 12 years, the park becomes a tourist attraction during the Neelakurinji bloom when the hills are covered in purple flowers, a sight that draws visitors from across the world.
3. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley National Park is one of the last remaining undisturbed tropical rainforests in India, spanning over 237 sq km. This park is home to rare species like the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar civet, and an impressive variety of birds and butterflies. Due to its ecological significance, visitor access is limited, with guided tours ensuring minimal environmental impact. The dense forest and untouched wilderness make this a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
4. Mathikettan Shola National Park
This lesser-known national park is an essential part of the Western Ghats ecosystem and is known for its dense shola forests. The park covers around 12.82 sq km and provides a habitat for leopards, elephants, and various species of birds. It is also an important watershed, contributing to Kerala’s water resources. Trekking through Mathikettan Shola allows visitors to experience a truly wild and biodiverse area.
5. Anamudi Shola National Park
Anamudi Shola National Park is another protected area near Munnar, covering 7.5 sq km. It is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in Kerala, with dense vegetation that supports a variety of mammals, including leopards, Indian bison, and sloth bears. The park is also known for its high-altitude montane forests and endemic plant species. With its pristine environment and scenic beauty, Anamudi Shola is an excellent destination for eco-tourism.
6. Pampadum Shola National Park
Pampadum Shola National Park is the smallest national park in Kerala, covering just 1.3 sq km. Despite its size, it serves as a crucial corridor for wildlife, especially tigers and leopards. The park's name translates to “the forest where snakes dance,” highlighting its rich reptile diversity. The mist-covered hills and evergreen forests offer a serene setting for nature walks and birdwatching.
How to Visit the National Parks in Kerala
Most of Kerala’s national parks are accessible from major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode.
If you’re heading to Eravikulam National Park or nearby reserves, Munnar serves as the best base, offering good road connectivity and plenty of accommodations. For those visiting Periyar National Park, Thekkady is the most convenient entry point, with well-established transport links and tourism infrastructure.
Many parks also offer guided tours and safaris that start from nearby towns, making it easier to explore the wildlife without extensive personal planning.
Where to Stay
Accommodations near Kerala’s national parks range from luxury eco-resorts to budget-friendly homestays, allowing visitors to choose based on their comfort and budget.
For those looking for a high-end experience, Spice Village (Periyar) and The Wind Munnar (Eravikulam) provide luxury lodging with top-notch amenities and immersive nature experiences. If you prefer a mid-range stay, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) lodges inside several national parks offer comfortable, affordable rooms with the advantage of being within park boundaries, providing early morning access to wildlife sightings.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for eco-camps, guesthouses, or homestays near Wayanad and Chinnar, where local families offer authentic hospitality and insights into the region’s biodiversity.
Eco-Tourism and Responsible Travel in Kerala
Kerala has a strong focus on eco-tourism, ensuring that wildlife conservation goes hand in hand with visitor experiences. Several well-managed projects provide sustainable ways to explore the national parks while minimizing human impact on the environment.
The Gavi Eco-Tourism Project offers a blend of adventure and conservation, featuring guided wildlife safaris, trekking, and boat rides through forested landscapes rich in biodiversity. The initiative is known for its minimal ecological footprint and contributes directly to local conservation efforts.
Meanwhile, Periyar Tiger Reserve Eco-Tourism provides activities such as bamboo rafting, night safaris, and community-led conservation programs, allowing visitors to experience the park’s diverse ecosystem in an environmentally responsible way.
If you’re looking for a deeper engagement with nature, many parks offer conservation volunteering programs where travelers can assist in reforestation efforts, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations and supporting sustainable tourism activities ensures that Kerala’s national parks remain protected for future generations.
How many national parks are there in Kerala?
Kerala has six officially designated national parks, each offering a unique ecological experience. These parks are an essential part of the Western Ghats' biodiversity, protecting endangered species and pristine habitats. They provide vital ecosystems for wildlife and are significant attractions for eco-tourism and conservation initiatives in India.
Which is the largest national park in Kerala?
Periyar National Park is the largest national park in Kerala, covering an extensive area of 925 square kilometers. It is not only the biggest but also the most famous, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park provides a crucial sanctuary for elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species, with Periyar Lake serving as a central hub for wildlife spotting.
Which is the only Indian state with no national park?
Punjab is the only state in India that does not have a designated national park. While it does have wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas, it lacks an official national park designation. This is due to its smaller geographical area and highly developed landscape, which leaves limited space for large, protected ecosystems typically found in other states.
Why is Periyar National Park famous?
Periyar National Park is famous for its significant population of Indian elephants and Bengal tigers. The park's highlight is Periyar Lake, where visitors can take boat safaris to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Additionally, the park is known for its well-managed eco-tourism programs, including bamboo rafting, trekking, and community-based conservation efforts, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
What are the five largest national parks in India?
The five largest national parks in India are Hemis National Park in Ladakh, which spans 4,400 square kilometers and is home to the elusive snow leopard. Desert National Park in Rajasthan, covering 3,162 square kilometers, showcases unique desert wildlife. Gangotri National Park in Uttarakhand, at 2,390 square kilometers, is famous for its glaciers and high-altitude biodiversity. Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh, covering 1,985 square kilometers, is known for its tropical rainforest habitat. Lastly, Guru Ghasidas National Park in Chhattisgarh, covering 1,440 square kilometers, serves as an important corridor for tigers and other wildlife species.
How many tiger reserves are there in Kerala?
Kerala has two officially designated tiger reserves: Periyar Tiger Reserve and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. Both reserves play a crucial role in protecting the dwindling tiger population under India’s Project Tiger initiative. These reserves also focus on habitat conservation, research, and community involvement to ensure the long-term survival of the species in the region.
Which Indian state has the most national parks?
Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of national parks in India, with a total of twelve. This central Indian state is known for its vast forested areas and thriving tiger population, making it a major hub for wildlife tourism. National parks like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Satpura attract visitors from around the world, offering some of the best opportunities for spotting tigers and other iconic Indian animals.
How to Visit Kerala’s National Parks
Kerala’s national parks are spread across different landscapes, from the high-altitude Western Ghats to coastal wetlands. Planning a visit requires careful consideration of how to get there, where to stay, and what eco-tourism activities to explore. With varying terrains and climates, each park offers a unique experience, making it important to choose the right one based on your interests and wildlife preferences.
Nonprofit Organizations in Kerala
Several nonprofit organizations are actively working towards wildlife conservation in Kerala, focusing on research, habitat preservation, and species protection. These organizations play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and ensuring the survival of endangered species through dedicated programs and community participation.
The Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) is one of the leading institutions in forest conservation and biodiversity research. It conducts extensive studies on forest ecosystems, climate change impact, and sustainable management of natural resources. By working closely with policymakers, KFRI ensures that conservation efforts align with scientific data and sustainable development goals.
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) is deeply involved in the protection of India’s flagship species, including tigers and elephants. Their projects in Kerala focus on mitigating human-wildlife conflict, rehabilitating injured or displaced animals, and strengthening protected areas through partnerships with local communities. They also run initiatives to educate the public about conservation and wildlife protection laws.
The Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) plays a vital role in researching and preserving the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Their conservation programs include habitat restoration, ecological monitoring, and community engagement projects. By promoting responsible tourism and habitat connectivity, NCF ensures that wildlife populations can thrive in their natural environments.
Additionally, smaller grassroots organizations work alongside these major foundations, conducting awareness campaigns, wildlife rescue operations, and habitat restoration projects. If you’re passionate about conservation, many of these organizations offer volunteer programs where individuals can contribute to fieldwork, education efforts, and wildlife monitoring, making a real impact on Kerala’s rich biodiversity.
FAQ
How many national parks are there in Kerala?
Kerala has six officially designated national parks, each offering a unique ecological experience. These parks are an essential part of the Western Ghats' biodiversity, protecting endangered species and pristine habitats. They provide vital ecosystems for wildlife and are significant attractions for eco-tourism and conservation initiatives in India.
Which is the largest national park in Kerala?
Periyar National Park is the largest national park in Kerala, covering an extensive area of 925 square kilometers. It is not only the biggest but also the most famous, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park provides a crucial sanctuary for elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species, with Periyar Lake serving as a central hub for wildlife spotting.
Which is the only Indian state with no national park?
Punjab is the only state in India that does not have a designated national park. While it does have wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas, it lacks an official national park designation. This is due to its smaller geographical area and highly developed landscape, which leaves limited space for large, protected ecosystems typically found in other states.
Why is Periyar National Park famous?
Periyar National Park is famous for its significant population of Indian elephants and Bengal tigers. The park's highlight is Periyar Lake, where visitors can take boat safaris to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Additionally, the park is known for its well-managed eco-tourism programs, including bamboo rafting, trekking, and community-based conservation efforts, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
What are the five largest national parks in India?
The five largest national parks in India are Hemis National Park in Ladakh, which spans 4,400 square kilometers and is home to the elusive snow leopard. Desert National Park in Rajasthan, covering 3,162 square kilometers, showcases unique desert wildlife. Gangotri National Park in Uttarakhand, at 2,390 square kilometers, is famous for its glaciers and high-altitude biodiversity. Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh, covering 1,985 square kilometers, is known for its tropical rainforest habitat. Lastly, Guru Ghasidas National Park in Chhattisgarh, covering 1,440 square kilometers, serves as an important corridor for tigers and other wildlife species.
How many tiger reserves are there in Kerala?
Kerala has two officially designated tiger reserves: Periyar Tiger Reserve and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. Both reserves play a crucial role in protecting the dwindling tiger population under India’s Project Tiger initiative. These reserves also focus on habitat conservation, research, and community involvement to ensure the long-term survival of the species in the region.
Which Indian state has the most national parks?
Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of national parks in India, with a total of twelve. This central Indian state is known for its vast forested areas and thriving tiger population, making it a major hub for wildlife tourism. National parks like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Satpura attract visitors from around the world, offering some of the best opportunities for spotting tigers and other iconic Indian animals.
For more wildlife travel inspiration, check out Wildlife Destinations and explore articles on National Parks in Alaska and Animals of Brazil.