Mukurthi National Park
A pristine mountain grassland reserve in the Nilgiris, famed for the Nilgiri Tahr and breathtaking shola forests. Requires permits for exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, wildlife activity
Mukurthi National Park
Best Time
Clearer views, wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine mountain grassland reserve in the Nilgiris, famed for the Nilgiri Tahr and breathtaking shola forests. Requires permits for exploration.
"Breathtakingly beautiful destination with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, a must-visit for nature lovers!"
Book Permits Early
:ticket: Secure your forest department permit well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trekking involves uneven terrain; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nilgiri Tahr Spotting
Grasslands and rocky slopes
Witness the majestic Nilgiri tahr, the park's iconic inhabitant, in its natural, rugged habitat.
Shola Forests & Meadows
Throughout the park
Trek through misty shola forests and rolling grasslands, a unique ecosystem with breathtaking views.
Parsons Valley Trek
Parsons Valley
An exhilarating trek offering diverse landscapes, from pine forests to open grasslands, often spotting wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits are Essential
Trekking & Guided Tours
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Permits Early
:ticket: Secure your forest department permit well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trekking involves uneven terrain; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
Hire a Local Guide
:walking: Guides enhance your experience and ensure safety, especially with wildlife sightings.
Carry Water & Snacks
:water_buffalo: Limited facilities inside; pack essentials for your trek.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Permits Early
:ticket: Secure your forest department permit well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Trekking involves uneven terrain; sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
Hire a Local Guide
:walking: Guides enhance your experience and ensure safety, especially with wildlife sightings.
Carry Water & Snacks
:water_buffalo: Limited facilities inside; pack essentials for your trek.
Respect Wildlife
:deer: Maintain distance, avoid feeding animals, and keep noise to a minimum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mukurthi National Park is lauded for its breathtaking natural beauty, unique ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, particularly the Nilgiri Tahr. Visitors rave about the exhilarating trekking experiences and the serene, untouched landscapes. However, the strict permit requirements and limited facilities can be a hurdle for some.
"Mukurthi National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful destination! The stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views of the Nilgiris make it a must-visit. The trekking trails and safari experiences are exhilarating, and the park's serene atmosphere is perfect for nature lovers. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall experience. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers!""
aqua stories
"One of the pristine forests treks that I have done in my entire life. Though we booked Parsons valley trek, forest department called and asked to either reschedule or book another trek due to leopard and sloth bear movement on the trek path. So ended up trekking Kolaribetta, we have passed through one of the pristine habitats as humans movement is only along multiple dams roads with almost no tribal hamlets in the park. We did spot quite a bit of wildlife ranging from sambar deers, birds (including elusive niligiri pipit and nilgiri thrush) and fresh leopard pugmarks, multiple insects, fungi etc."
Subba Reddy
"Mukurthi National Park is a protected area located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Mukurthi National Park is a unique and fragile ecosystem, providing a habitat for many endangered species. It is famous for folded mountains. The park is characterised by montane grasslands and shrublands interspersed with sholas in a high altitude area of high rainfall, near-freezing temperatures and high winds. It is home to an array of endangered wildlife, including royal Bengal tiger and Asian elephant, but its main mammal attraction is the Nilgiri tahr. The park was previously known as Nilgiri Tahr National Park."
Vamsi Krishna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mukurthi National Park is located about 40 km from Ooty. You can drive towards Avalanche or Parsons Valley checkpoints. Entry is strictly via the forest department, often requiring a guided trek.
Most visitors reach the trekking entry points by private vehicle or taxi. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Nilgiris.
Public transport options are limited. It's advisable to arrange private transport or join organized tours that include transportation to the park's entry points.
Generally, private vehicles are not allowed deep inside the park. Access is usually restricted to designated trekking routes and guided tours.
The nearest major town is Ooty, which serves as a gateway to Mukurthi National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department is mandatory for entry. It's highly recommended to book this in advance.
Permits are typically booked through the Tamil Nadu Forest Department's official channels or authorized tour operators.
Entry for guided treks is usually between 8 AM and 2 PM. It's best to confirm specific timings when booking your permit.
Entry is usually tied to specific trekking packages or guided tours organized by the forest department.
Permit and trekking fees vary. It's advisable to check the latest rates with the Forest Department or your tour provider.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park is home to the Nilgiri tahr, sambar deer, various bird species, and potentially leopards and sloth bears.
Guided treks are the primary way to explore the park. Safaris in the traditional sense are not common.
Popular trails include the Mukurthi Peak Trail, Parsons Valley Trek, and treks to Mukurthi Hut.
Photography is generally allowed, but drone usage might be restricted. Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife responsibly.
The terrain varies from steep mountain slopes and grasslands to dense shola forests, requiring good physical fitness.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food facilities inside the park. Visitors must carry their own food and water.
Food options are limited to Ooty, where you can find various restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is recommended. Ensure you carry out all your waste.
While not in the park, Ooty offers local South Indian dishes and Tibetan cuisine.
Yes, it's best to have a substantial meal before starting your trek, as there are no dining facilities within the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling meadows, misty valleys, shola forests, and wildlife sightings offer incredible photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife are ideal. A sturdy tripod can be useful in low light.
While general photography is allowed, drone usage may be restricted. Always check park regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer soft light and are often best for wildlife spotting and landscape shots.
Yes, photographing the Nilgiri Tahr is a highlight, but maintain a safe distance and respect their space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's essential to plan ahead, as permits are mandatory and facilities are minimal. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and warm clothing, as the weather can change rapidly. The park's serene environment provides a great escape from urban life, allowing families to connect with nature.
🚶♀️ Adventure Trekkers
+2Booking guided treks is a must, and these often involve overnight stays in basic forest accommodations. Be prepared for long hiking days, carrying your own supplies, and embracing the wild. The sense of accomplishment after completing a trek here is immense, with unparalleled views and a true immersion in nature.
📸 Nature Photographers
+2Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light. A good telephoto lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes are recommended. Remember to be patient, respectful of the environment, and aware of park regulations regarding photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Mukurthi
The park's landscape is a testament to its geological history, featuring folded mountains that contribute to its dramatic scenery. This environment is perfectly suited for the Nilgiri tahr, the park's flagship species, which grazes on the grasslands. The biodiversity extends to numerous endemic plant and animal species, making Mukurthi a vital conservation area within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Visitors often describe the scenery as otherworldly, with mist frequently shrouding the landscape, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The rolling meadows and the interplay of light and shadow are a photographer's delight.
+1 Understanding this delicate balance is key to appreciating the importance of conservation efforts in Mukurthi.Trekking Adventures in Mukurthi
+2Trekkers can expect to traverse through dense shola forests, open grasslands, and along the banks of pristine rivers. The trails are often challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but the rewards are immense: stunning panoramic views, the chance to spot wildlife, and the tranquility of untouched nature. The Mukurthi Hut trek, a 22 km journey, is particularly noted for its challenging yet rewarding path.
+1It's crucial to remember that all treks are guided and require prior permission from the Forest Department. Guides are essential for navigation, safety, and understanding the local flora and fauna. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including mist and cold, and always carry adequate water and snacks.
Wildlife Encounters
While sightings are not guaranteed, the park is also home to predators like the leopard and the sloth bear. Birdwatchers will find Mukurthi a paradise, with numerous endemic species like the Nilgiri pipit and Nilgiri thrush. The diverse insect and fungal life also contributes to the park's rich biodiversity.
Encounters with wildlife are best observed from a safe distance. Visitors are urged to respect the animals' space, avoid feeding them, and maintain silence to minimize disturbance. The presence of fresh pugmarks, as noted by some visitors, indicates the active wildlife within the park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit