Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and national park in the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu, India. It covers 321 km2 (124 sq mi) at an elevation range of 850–1,250 m (2,790–4,100 ft) and shares boundaries with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, deer, monkeys, birds and reptiles. Visit during Coonoor Local Sightseeing by cab
Location of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is located in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu, about 240 km (150 mi) from Bangalore, about 90 km (56 mi) from Mysore, about 68 km (42 mi) from Ooty and about 124 km (77 mi) from Calicut by road.
The reserve straddles the Ooty-Mysore interstate national highway, roughly midway between the two cities and thus could be approached with equal facility either way. From Ooty, another approach is through a steep ghat road via Kalhatti having 36 hair-pin bends on a narrow road, but with a truncated distance of approximately 40 km (25 mi).
Timing / Entry Fees Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is open from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on all days of the week. The entry fee is Rs. 15 per person for Indians and Rs. 250 per person for foreigners. The camera fee is Rs. 25 for still camera and Rs. 150 for video camera. The safari fee varies depending on the type and duration of the vehicle. The jeep safari fee is Rs. 1350 for one hour for a six-seater vehicle. The bus safari fee is Rs. 135 per person for one hour.
How to Reach Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve can be reached by road from Coonoor or Ooty. You can take a bus, taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the spot. You can also hire a private vehicle or a bike for more convenience. There is ample parking space available near the reserve.
Things to Do / Must See Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve offers various things to do and see for tourists of all ages and interests. You can enjoy wildlife safaris, nature walks, birdwatching, camping, photography, etc. at the reserve. You can also visit the nearby attractions such as Moyar River, Theppakadu Elephant Camp, Pykara Lake, etc.
- Wildlife Safaris: Wildlife safaris are the main attraction at the reserve. You can choose from jeep safaris, bus safaris or elephant safaris to explore the reserve and spot various animals such as tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, deer, monkeys, etc.
- Nature Walks: Nature walks are another activity that you can enjoy at the reserve. You can walk along the nature trails and admire the beauty of the forest and its flora and fauna.
- Birdwatching: Birdwatching is another activity that you can enjoy at the reserve. You can spot various birds such as peacocks, hornbills, woodpeckers, kingfishers, eagles, etc.
- Camping: Camping is another activity that you can enjoy at the reserve. You can pitch your tents at designated sites and spend a night under the stars.
- Photography: Photography is another activity that you can enjoy at the reserve. You can capture the beauty of the reserve and its wildlife with your camera.
- Moyar River: Moyar River is a tributary of Bhavani River that flows through the reserve. It offers a scenic view of the valley and a waterfall.
- Theppakadu Elephant Camp: Theppakadu Elephant Camp is a place where you can see trained elephants and interact with them. You can also watch them being fed and bathed.
- Pykara Lake: Pykara Lake is a reservoir formed by Pykara Dam near Ooty. It offers a scenic view of the lake and boating facilities.
Significance of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is a place of historical and ecological significance. It was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1940 and became a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in 1986. It was declared as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 2007 and notified as ‘Critical Tiger Habitat’ in 2007. It is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India and one of the largest tiger habitats in the country. It is also a part of the Western Ghats, which are a biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the best time to visit Mudumalai Tiger Reserve?
A: The best time to visit Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and dry.
Q: What are the facilities available at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve?
A: There are basic facilities available at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve such as parking, toilets, drinking water, etc. There are also some shops and stalls that sell snacks, beverages, souvenirs, etc. There are also some accommodation options available such as forest rest houses, guest houses, lodges, etc.
Q: What are some tips for visiting Mudumalai Tiger Reserve?
A: Some tips for visiting Mudumalai Tiger Reserve are:
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will have to walk or ride to explore the reserve.
Carry water, snacks and a camera to capture the views.
Be respectful while viewing the wildlife and do not disturb or harm them.
Do not litter or feed the animals at the reserve.
Respect the local culture and environment.
Conclusion
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and national park in the Nilgiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu, India. It covers 321 km2 (124 sq mi) at an elevation range of 850–1,250 m (2,790–4,100 ft) and shares boundaries with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, deer, monkeys, birds and reptiles.
It offers various things to do and see for tourists of all ages and interests, such as wildlife safaris, nature walks, birdwatching, camping, photography, etc. It is one of the most popular attractions of Coonoor and Ooty and a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers.
