Explore Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu, a UNESCO-listed wildlife sanctuary famous for Nilgiri Tahr, scenic trekking trails, shola forests, Mukurthi Peak, and rich biodiversity. Discover attractions, facilities, timings, and travel information.
Mukurthi National Park is a 78.46 sq. km protected area located in the western corner of the Nilgiris Plateau in Tamil Nadu. Famous for its unique “shola” (montane grassland) ecosystems, it was established to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mukurthi National Park is one of Tamil Nadu’s most spectacular protected wilderness areas, located amidst the serene Nilgiri Plateau of the Western Ghats. Covering approximately 78.46 sq. km, the park is renowned for its breathtaking montane grasslands, shola forests, pristine lakes, and rich biodiversity.
Established primarily to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the park was formerly known as the Nilgiri Tahr National Park. Today, it forms an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site network of the Western Ghats.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Mukurthi National Park, |
| Location | Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu |
| Established | 1990 |
| Area | 78.46 sq. km |
| UNESCO Status | Part of the Western Ghats World Heritage Site |
| Famous For | Nilgiri Tahr Conservation |
| Ecosystem | Shola Forests & Montane Grasslands |
| Elevation | 1,500–2,629 m above sea level |
| Nearest Town | Ooty (Udhagamandalam) |
| Managed By | Tamil Nadu Forest Department |
Points of Attraction
Nilgiri Tahr
The park’s flagship species and one of the main reasons for its establishment. Visitors may spot these endangered mountain ungulates on steep grass-covered slopes.
Mukurthi Peak
One of the highest peaks in the Nilgiris, offering spectacular panoramic views of valleys, forests, and grasslands.
Mukurthi Lake
A scenic mountain lake surrounded by untouched wilderness, ideal for photography and nature appreciation.
Shola Forests & Grasslands
The park preserves a rare shola-grassland ecosystem unique to the Western Ghats.
Bird Watching
Home to endemic birds such as the Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Laughingthrush, Black-and-Orange Flycatcher, and several raptors.
Trekking Trails
Guided trekking routes through pristine landscapes make the park a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.
Facilities
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Forest Department Guided Treks | Yes |
| Wildlife Viewing | Yes |
| Bird Watching | Yes |
| Nature Photography | Yes |
| Trekking Routes | Yes (Permit Required) |
| Parking Area | Limited |
| Rest Houses | Available at select forest locations with permission |
| Camping | Restricted & Permit-Based |
| Food Stalls | Not Available Inside Park |
| Accommodation | Available in Ooty and nearby areas |
| Public Toilets | Limited |
| Visitor Information | Available through Forest Department |
Tourist facilities inside the core area are intentionally limited to protect the fragile ecosystem. Most visitors stay in Ooty and visit the park through authorized arrangements.
Best in the Park
| Category | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Most Famous Animal | Nilgiri Tahr |
| Best Viewpoint | Mukurthi Peak |
| Best Natural Attraction | Mukurthi Lake |
| Best Activity | Trekking |
| Best Photography Spot | Shola Grasslands |
| Best Birding Experience | Endemic Western Ghats Birds |
| Best Season | January–May |
| UNESCO Significance | Part of Western Ghats World Heritage Site |
Mukurthi National Park Ooty Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | Closed / Holiday |
| Wedesday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 9:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Things to keep in mind while visiting Mukurthi National Park
Now that you know why and how to go to Mukurthi National Park in Ooty, here are a few things you must remember during trek planning.
1. Casual or commercial tourism isn’t allowed in this sanctuary. For camping and trekking, permission from the forest office is needed.
2. Mukurthi National Park has several trekking routes, and your path will depend on the number of days you plan to spend there.
3. Rest houses and trekking sheds are available, but they’re unfurnished. So, confirm the available amenities with the authorities in advance.
4. While the forest department arranges the tents and accommodation, the trekkers will have to bring their sleeping bags, and maybe, beddings too. Check with the office before leaving.
5. Bathing in the streams isn’t allowed.
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