Your travel fantasies will come true in Tamil Nadu. It is a well-known wildlife tourism location in South India. A hidden treasure in terms of wildlife parks and safaris, the state is home to numerous architectural wonders and beautiful temples. Tamil Nadu is a biodiverse state with national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Tamil Nadu is known as the King of Wildlife National Parks and Sanctuaries. However, the primary concern for every traveler is how to get started and which national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are the best. We have listed the top 10 Famous National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu for you.
List of Famous National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu.
1. Mudumalai National Park
Due to the scenic views of the ocean and the sky from there, the Nilgiri range is India’s most exotic hill station. It is located in Tamil Nadu and is known as the Blue Mountains. The charming Mudumalai National Park, perched on the Nilgiri hills, offers exotic wildlife, plants, and a harsh temperature to beat. It is one of the finest places in India to hear the roars of Bengal tigers.
There are also several species here like giant elephants, agile leopards, and fierce vultures. You can interact with elephants and watch their antics while traveling through a national forest on an elephant safari.
The start of winter and the beginning of summer are the best times to explore Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu, respectively. But October through May is the ideal month to go there.
Location: Nilgiri District, near the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border.
Size: 321 sq. km
Key Features:
- Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site.
- Home to Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.
- Important elephant corridors like the Segur Plateau pass through the park.
Activities:
- Jeep safaris and elephant rides.
- Birdwatching to spot Malabar trogon, crested serpent eagle, and grey hornbill.
Best Time to Visit: October to May (avoid monsoon season).
How to Reach:
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport (140 km).
- By Train: Udhagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station (64 km).
- By Road: Well-connected from Ooty, Mysore, and Bangalore.
Tips: Stay in one of the nearby jungle lodges for an immersive experience.
2. Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
This amazingly beautiful national park is located in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the most unique national parks in India. The Gulf of Mannar in the Indian Ocean is home to coral reefs, shallow water habitats, and 21 tiny, beautiful islets.
The primary area of the Gulf of Mannar is this National Marine Park. It is part of the Tamil Nadu government’s drive for ecotourism. Mannar Marine National Park is a prosperous maritime biodiversity location. In its aquatic, and nearshore environments, it is home to various flora and fauna.
The park contains three water habitats: coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass. Additionally, this national park has saline marshes and a variety of algae ecosystems. The abundance of estuaries, wooded regions, and coastlines enhances the beauty of the park.
Location: Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin Districts.
Size: 623 sq. km
Key Features:
- India’s first marine biosphere reserve.
- Comprises 21 islands with coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.
- Habitats for dugongs, dolphins, green turtles, and over 4,000 marine species.
Activities:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving to explore coral reefs.
- Boat rides to spot dolphins and other marine life.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Madurai Airport (150 km).
- By Train: Rameswaram Railway Station (10 km).
- By Road: Accessible from Rameswaram and Tuticorin.
Tips: Use eco-friendly practices while exploring this delicate marine ecosystem.
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3. Guindy National Park
Guindy National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers in Chennai, India. Located in the heart of the bustling city, the park provides a serene haven for people looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The park is spread over an area of 2.82 square kilometers and was established as a game reserve in 1770 during British rule in India. Later in 1976, it was declared a national park to protect the diverse range of flora and fauna that it houses.
The park is home to a variety of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, including the Blackbuck, the Spotted Deer, and the Indian Antelope. With over 14 species of mammals, 130 species of birds, and a variety of insects, the park offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Visitors can also head to the snake park within the park to witness a variety of species of snakes.
A walk through the park’s well-maintained trails reveals a plethora of rare plant species and the occasional pleasant surprise of sighting wildlife. The park also harbours historic attractions, including the Guindy Lodge and Raj Bhavan, which are open to tourists for exploration.
Location: Chennai.
Size: 2.7 sq. km (one of India’s smallest national parks).
Key Features:
- Located within Chennai city limits.
- Hosts blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, and over 130 bird species.
- Contains a children’s park and a snake park for educational tours.
Activities:
- Nature walks and birdwatching.
- Educational programs for school children.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chennai International Airport (12 km).
- By Train: Guindy Railway Station (2 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis within Chennai.
Tips: Ideal for short family trips or educational visits.
4. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful bird sanctuaries in India. The 74-acre sanctuary in the Kancheepuram District of Tamil Nadu is the perfect place for bird enthusiasts to satisfy their appetite to see stunning and unique feathered species.
The protected area is a natural habitat for over 4000 bird species, including birds that migrate such as the blue-winged teal, common sandpiper, large egrets, gray wagtail, little egrets, garganey, pintail, snake birds, shovellers, painted storks, gray herons, darters, moorhens, terns, gray pelicans, spot-billed duck, spoonbills, and cormorants.
Location: Kanchipuram District.
Size: 30 hectares.
Key Features:
- One of India’s oldest bird sanctuaries, established in 1936.
- Attracts migratory birds like painted storks, pelicans, and herons.
Activities:
- Birdwatching during migratory seasons.
- Photography of nesting birds.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Chennai International Airport (85 km).
- By Train: Chengalpattu Railway Station (26 km).
- By Road: Connected by NH45; taxis and buses are available.
Tips: Visit early in the morning for the best bird sightings.
5. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary (Anaimalai Tiger Reserve)
An area of protected land in Tamil Nadu, India, is Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. It was established in 1989 and covered an area of about 958 square kilometers. The sanctuary is named after former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, a vital wildlife conservation advocate.
The sanctuary is home to various flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, and a wide range of bird species. It also has several waterfalls, streams, and rivers that flow through the sanctuary, providing a natural habitat for aquatic animals.
The sanctuary is known for its ecotourism activities that involve bird viewing, camping, and hiking. Through guided excursions and nature hikes, visitors can experience the sanctuary’s various regions, each with its own flora and fauna. The sanctuary also provides chances for safaris and wildlife photography.
Overall, the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is an essential place for conservation that offers a haven for threatened species and enhances the area’s biodiversity.
Location: Pollachi, Coimbatore District.
Size: 958 sq. km
Key Features:
- Dense forests and grasslands in the Anaimalai Hills.
- Home to tigers, leopards, Indian elephants, and Nilgiri langurs.
Activities:
- Trekking and birdwatching.
- Visit scenic spots like Monkey Falls and Aliyar Dam.
Best Time to Visit: December to April.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport (70 km).
- By Train: Pollachi Railway Station (40 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by Pollachi and Valparai roads.
Tips: Hire local guides for a safe trekking experience.
6. Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary
Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Southernmost part of India In Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district. Elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar, barking deer, wild boars, and a diversity of bird species live in the sanctuary. It was established in 2008 and had a surface area of about 4000 hectares.
There are several activities available to visitors to the sanctuary including hiking, nature walks, bird viewing, and wildlife photography. This wildlife park is renowned for its variety of birds. It is home to endemic species like the Malabar trogon and the white-bellied treepie. The Nilgiri tahr is a species of mountain goat found only in the Western Ghats.
The natural biodiversity of the sanctuary is being preserved. To safeguard the wildlife in the sanctuary, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has implemented measures like habitat restoration, anti-poaching operations, and community-based conservation initiatives.
Location: Kanyakumari District.
Size: 402 sq. km
Key Features:
- Located at the southernmost tip of India.
- Habitat for Indian bison, leopards, sloth bears, and over 300 bird species.
Activities:
- Trekking through forested trails.
- Wildlife photography and birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (80 km).
- By Train: Nagercoil Junction (20 km).
- By Road: Accessible from Kanyakumari town by buses and taxis.
Tips: Combine the visit with sightseeing at Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Kanyakumari beaches.
7. Mukurthi National Park
Mukurthi National Park is in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. It covers an area of approximately 80 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is situated in the Western Ghats and is known for its unique shola-grassland ecosystem.
Mukurthi National Park is among the UNESCO Heritage Sites.
The park has several endangered species, such as the Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri langur, and the black-and-orange flycatcher. The park also serves as an important watershed, providing water to the surrounding areas. The park offers several opportunities for trekking and birdwatching and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Overall, Mukurthi National Park is a crucial conservation area that plays a significant role in preserving the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Location: Nilgiri District.
Size: 78 sq. km
Key Features:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique shola-grassland ecosystem.
- Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and various endemic species.
Activities:
- Trekking and camping.
- Wildlife spotting and birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit: December to March.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Coimbatore International Airport (140 km).
- By Train: Ooty Railway Station (40 km).
- By Road: Accessible from Ooty via local taxis or buses.
Tips: Trekking requires prior permission from forest authorities.
8. Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary
Tirunelveli region of Tamil Nadu is home to the Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also known as Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary. It spans an area of about 200 square kilometers and is inhabited by various plants and animals. The refuge comprises grasslands, thorny scrub forests, and dry deciduous woods. It is located on the banks of the Tamiraparani River.
The refuge is home to several endangered species, including the lion-tailed macaque, Indian elephant, and Indian giant squirrel. Along with a diverse animal community, the sanctuary is home to over 100 bird species. The sanctuary is a well-liked location for outdoor enthusiasts and provides numerous hiking and wildlife safaris opportunities. The Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant conservation area that contributes significantly to maintaining Tamil Nadu’s rich biodiversity.
Location: Tirunelveli District.
Size: 35 sq. km
Key Features:
- Dense forests supporting leopards, elephants, and deer.
- Includes attractions like Manimuthar Falls and Papanasam Dam.
Activities:
- Nature walks and trekking.
- Exploring waterfalls and scenic valleys.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tuticorin Airport (55 km).
- By Train: Tirunelveli Junction (40 km).
- By Road: Taxis and buses from Tirunelveli are available.
Tips: Visit with a local guide for a better experience.
9. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary
The Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is also known as the Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated in the Nagapattinam district. It is located at the southeast end of the Indian peninsula and spans an area of about 387 square kilometers. The sanctuary is renowned for its distinctive coastal ecosystem and is home to various vegetation and fauna. The refuge includes a variety of habitats, tidal mudflats, and mangrove forests. The saltwater crocodile, blackbuck, and Indian spotted chevrotain are just a few endangered species here.
The sanctuary also serves as an essential stopover point for migratory birds, with over 250 species recorded in the area. The sanctuary is also home to several species of marine turtles, including the endangered Olive Ridley turtle. The sanctuary offers several opportunities for nature enthusiasts, such as birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and camping.
The Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant conservation area that contributes significantly to maintaining Tamil Nadu’s rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is a crucial source of income for the local populations, who engage in fishing, farming, and other occupations.
Location: Nagapattinam District.
Size: 21 sq. km
Key Features:
- Known for blackbucks, migratory birds, and mangroves.
- Hosts flamingos, pelicans, and painted storks during migration.
Activities:
- Birdwatching during the winter months.
- Explore salt pans and coastal landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tiruchirappalli Airport (150 km).
- By Train: Nagapattinam Railway Station (60 km).
- By Road: Buses and taxis from nearby towns.
Tips: Early mornings are ideal for spotting birds.
10. Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary
Kodaikanal was home to several flora & fauna species, including the Black Panther and the Damp-Loving Frogs. The lower altitudes are home to Indian Rock Pythons. Five to six-meter-long ones are common, and they prey on rats, chickens, and other animals that they can capture from nearby villages.
The Kurinji Plants, whose blooms are known as Kurinji blooms and have the botanical name Strobilanthus, is a unique feature of Kodaikanal. They only bloom once every 12 years. Sholas, or dense areas of broad-leaved, evergreen rainforests, can be found in the valleys.
The high altitude and persistent, heavy breeze prevent the trees from growing to majestic heights as they do in rain forests in the plains. These lichens- and moss-covered woods make excellent watersheds. They take in water during the monsoon and wisely discharge it all year.
Location: Dindigul District.
Size: 608 sq. km
Key Features:
- Lush greenery and dense forests in the Palani Hills.
- Home to leopards, wild boars, bison, and several bird species.
Activities:
- Trekking and wildlife spotting.
- Scenic views and picnics near Berijam Lake.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Madurai Airport (120 km).
- By Train: Kodai Road Railway Station (80 km).
- By Road: Buses and taxis connect Kodaikanal with Madurai and Dindigul.
Tips: Combine with Kodaikanal’s attractions like Coaker’s Walk and Bryant Park.
Kodaikanal Package: 3 Nights 4 Days Kodaikanal Trip Itinerary
Tips for Travelers:
- Permits: Many parks require prior permission; check with local authorities.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing for blending into the environment.
- Essentials: Carry water, snacks, binoculars, and a camera.
- Local Guides: Always hire guides for safe and informative visits.
- Respect Nature: Avoid littering and adhere to park rules.
Conclusion
The southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu is home to various plants and animals. The state has several national parks and wildlife reserves, which are essential to maintaining the area’s biodiversity.
In conclusion, the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu play a crucial role in preserving the region’s rich biodiversity and serve as important sources of livelihood and tourism revenue. It is essential to continue to support and invest in these conservation areas to ensure their continued success in preserving the natural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are some famous national parks in Tamil Nadu?
Popular ones include Mudumalai National Park, Guindy National Park, Mukurthi National Park, and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
2. Which is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu?
Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, also known as Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, is the largest in Tamil Nadu.
3. What animals can be seen in Tamil Nadu’s national parks?
You can spot tigers, elephants, leopards, gaur, deer, langurs, and many bird species.
4. Is Mudumalai National Park worth visiting?
Yes, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity, including tigers, elephants, and a variety of birds.
5. Which wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu is good for birdwatching?
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary are excellent for birdwatching.
6. Are there any marine sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu?
Yes, the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a significant marine sanctuary in Tamil Nadu.
7. What is special about Guindy National Park?
Located in Chennai, it is one of the smallest national parks in India and is home to blackbucks, spotted deer, and numerous birds.
8. Can I go trekking in Tamil Nadu’s wildlife sanctuaries?
Yes, places like Mukurthi National Park and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve offer trekking options.
9. What is the best time to visit these parks and sanctuaries?
The ideal time is October to March when the weather is pleasant and animals are more active.
10. Are jeep safaris available in these parks?
Yes, jeep safaris are available in Mudumalai National Park and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary for exploring wildlife.
11. Do these parks have accommodations?
Some parks like Mudumalai and Anaimalai offer forest lodges and eco-tourism accommodations.
12. Is it safe to visit wildlife sanctuaries with kids?
Yes, many sanctuaries have family-friendly activities and guided tours, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
