Mukurthi National Park located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris is a famous tourist spot in Tamil Nadu. It is 40 kms from Udhagamandalam and is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is India`s first International Biosphere. Mukurthi National Park is home to a variety of animals and birds. It is an oasis of idyllic green and has a feasible population of Nigiri Tahr. It is for this reason that earlier it was known as the Nilgiri Tahr National Park. The Park is intercepted by temperate shoals and woodlands. Dotted with sylvan lakes the park looks picturesque and is an apt place for a holiday retreat.
Flora and Fauns of Mukurthi National Park
The Mukurthi National Park is rich in flora and fauna. It houses a variety of animals like Nilgiri Tahr (Hamitragus-hilocrius), Nilgiri marten and otter, Jungle cat, Sambhar, Barking deer, Jackal etc. The park also provides shelter to endangered species like Indian elephant, Leopard, Bonnet macaque, Nilgiri langur, Small Indian Civet, Malabar Spiny Dormouse, Bengal Tiger, Mouse Deer, Shrew, Wild dog, Soft furred Rat, Black naped Hare, and Bonhote`s Mouse. Several species of birds can also be seen here like the laughing and whistling thrushes, woodcock, wild pigeon and black eagle. Colourful butterflies like the Blue Admiral, Indian Red Admiral, Hedge blues Indian Fritillary, Indian Cabbage white, and rainbow trouts adorn the beauty of the park.
Mukurthi National Park also facilitates trekking for the tourists. There are extensive trekking route from Parsan Valley, Portimund and Pykara. Outsiders can also enjoy Trout fishing in the rivers and lakes of Mukurthi. However, for fishing, one needs to obtain permission from Asst. Director, Fisheries Department. The National Park is an important spot for wildlife lovers. Here the sightseers can have a spellbinding experience of the natural beauty of the park. The best time to visit the sanctuary id during the months of February-May and September to November.
Mukurthi National Park is well connected with all modes of transport. The nearest airport is at Coimbatore at a distance of 140 km. The nearest railhead is Udagamandalam located at a distance of 45 km. Mukkurthi national park is connected to Udagamandalam by road also.
