Mudumalai National Park, Tamilnadu

About Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park is one of the finest and most attractive wildlife sanctuaries in south India. Located in the most picturesque surroundings of the hilly terrain of the Western Ghats, the Mudumalai National Park covers an area of approximately 321 sq km. The Mysore-Ooty highway runs through the Park, following the course of the Moyar River, which separates Mudumalai National Park from the famous Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka. The Mudumalai National Park is also a part of the famous Nilgiri Bio-sphere Reserve of India

Mudumalai National Park is located at the foothills of the Nilgiri hills in the state of Tamil Nadu. Mudumalai which literally means ancient hills was identified as a reserve way back in 1927 and converted into a sanctuary in 1940. It is a continuation of the Bandipur National Park in the neighbouring state of Karnataka, and is separated by the river Moyar that flows along the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The park also has a border with the Wayanad Sanctuary in Kerala. Mudumalai is a part of the forest area which includes the Bandipur National Park and Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarhole) in Karnataka, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala which together constitute the Niligiri Biosphere Reserve.

Nestled on the northeastern slopes of the Nilgiris, Mudumalai National Park has the distinction of being the first wildlife sanctuary to be created in South India in 1940. This gently undulating hilly terrain of the Western Ghats lies on Tamil Nadu’s interstate boundaries with Karnataka and Kerala. Strategically located near Bandipur National Park, Waynad Sanctuary and the Sigur and Singara reserve forests, it also comes under the proposed Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Moyar River, the most importance source of water in the sanctuary, separates Mudumalai from adjoining Bandipur, with similar flora and fauna. Since most other streams dry up in early June, you have a good chance of sighting wildlife in the dry season around the Moyar. You can see giant squirrels with ease. Known for its endemic bird species like Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill and Malabar Great Black Woodpecker, Mudumalai is a birdwatcher’s delight. The park forms part of an important corridor for migratory elephants who move in large herds through Nagarahole, Bandipur and Mudumalai to the forest regions of Kerala. You can interact closely with the mahouts and their tame giants at the Elephant Training Camp at Theppakadu, which has the distinction of the highest number of elephant births in captivity.

Interesting things to Visit

Flora(Mudumalai National Park)
The vegetation is quite varied in this region. The hilly terrain of the Western Ghats, clothed in dense mixed and moist deciduous forests, make Mudumalai (the ancient hills) a most attractive wildlife reserve. Bamboos (Bambusa Arundinacea) Natural teak (Tectona Grandis), Anogeissus latifolia, Terminalia, Crenulata/Terminalia Tomontosa, Grewia, and blooming trees like Indian Labumusum, Aredesia, Solanancea are some of the flora.

Fauna(Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary)
The fauna include Elephants, Gaur, Banner, Macaque, Common Langur, Tigers, Leopards, Chital, Panther, Sloth Bear, Python, Barking Deer, Four Horned Antelope, Otter, Crocodiles (Mugger), Giant Flying Squirrel, Sambar, Hyena, Wild Dog, Wild Boar, Mouse Deer, Spotted Deer, Jackal, Hare, Porcupine and Mongoose.

The birds listed in this sanctuary are Peacock-our National bird, Grey Jungle Fowl, Red Spur Fowl, Grey Partridge Quails, Goggle Eyed Plower, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Large Racket-Tailed Dronge, The Magpie-robin, Spotted Babbler, Small Green Barbet, Green Pigeons, Brown Dove, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Bulbuls, Mynahs, etc. Among birds of prey, Eagles, Hawks, Buzzards, Harriers, Falcons and King Vulture are predominant, besides some migratory water birds.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Police Station ,Gudalur

Sheela Hospitals
46, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 2498381

PSG Hospitals
Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 2570170

Vikram Hospital And Ent Research Institute
Venkatasamy Rd, R.S. Puram, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu- 0422 2550633

Location info

**Address:**Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu
**District:**Coimbatore
Nearest City: Gudalur - 16km

Best time to visit: Moderate warm climate almost through the year makes it attractive destination throughout the year but the best time to visit would be December to April.

Climate & weather

The mercury ranges from Min 15°C - Max 30°C

How to reach Mudumalai National Park

**Nearest Railway Station:**Udhagamandalam railway station 65kms ,Mysore 95 kms.
**Nearest Airport:**Coimbatore

**Road Transport:**Gudalur (16-km) is the nearest town to the sanctuary, which is situated along the Udhagamandalam - Mysore highway. This sanctuary could be reached from Mysore as well. There are regular buses from Udhagamandalam, Mysore and the neighbouring towns to the sanctuary

Best time to visit Mudumalai National Park

October to March is the best season for wildlife viewing when animals gather near water sources. Early morning (6–8 AM) and late afternoon (3–5 PM) are the best times for safaris. The park is lush and green post-monsoon. Avoid April–June (extreme heat) and monsoon closures.

Timings & opening hours

Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Safari timings: morning (6–9 AM) and afternoon (3–5:30 PM). The park may be closed during monsoon season (June–September) for breeding. Check official forest department schedules.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 50–100 for Indian adults, INR 500–1000 for foreign nationals. Vehicle entry: INR 100–300. Jeep safari: INR 500–1500 per person. Camera fee: INR 100–200 (still). Guide fee may be additional. Prices vary by park.

Duration needed

A full-day visit (6–8 hours) including a morning safari, break, and afternoon safari. Overnight stays offer the best wildlife viewing experience with multiple safari sessions.

Safety tips

Stay inside the safari vehicle at all times. Do not get out of the vehicle inside the park. Do not feed animals. Maintain silence for better wildlife sightings. Follow forest guide instructions. Carry insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk. Avoid wearing bright colours.

Things to carry

Binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, light jacket (morning safaris are cool), insect repellent, snacks. Wear earthy-toned clothing (khaki, olive, brown). Valid ID for park registration.

Nearby visiting places

Other wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, hill stations, and forest reserves in the Western Ghats region.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport: the nearest regional airport. Nearest railway station: at the nearest town. Regular bus services connect the park entrance to nearby towns. Private vehicles and taxis can reach the park.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Basic food options are available at forest rest houses, eco-lodges, and small local eateries near Mudumalai National Park. These typically serve South Indian vegetarian meals including rice, sambar, poriyal, and curd. Visitors are advised to carry packed food and sufficient water when visiting the sanctuary.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

For accommodation near Mudumalai National Park, nearby towns and cities offer options ranging from budget lodges and guesthouses to mid-range hotels. During peak tourist season (December to March) and during major festivals like Pongal (January), it is advisable to book accommodation in advance. Most hotels offer basic amenities including attached bathrooms, fans/AC, and in-house vegetarian food options.

History of Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park was established to protect the rich biodiversity of the Western/Eastern Ghats region in Tamil Nadu. The park was declared a protected area to conserve its wildlife, especially flagship species like tigers, elephants, and leopards, along with the unique flora of the region. It forms part of an important wildlife corridor in South India.

Things to do at Mudumalai National Park

Take guided jungle safaris through the park’s diverse habitats to spot wildlife in their natural environment. Bird watching — the park is home to numerous bird species including endemics. Visit the park’s interpretation centre to learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available at the nearest town before entering the forest area. It is essential to fill fuel before entering the park as there are no fuel stations inside the forest.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time for wildlife sightings at Mudumalai National Park? October to March is the best season. Early morning safaris (6–8 AM) offer the best chance to see predators and active wildlife.

Are jeep safaris available at Mudumalai National Park? Yes, guided jeep safaris are operated by the forest department. Advance booking is recommended as slots are limited.

What wildlife can be seen at Mudumalai National Park? The park is home to various species including deer, elephants, gaur, leopards, tigers (in some parks), wild boar, and numerous bird species. Wildlife sightings depend on season and luck.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.