Mathikettan Shola National Park
A 'mind-confusing' paradise of misty shola forests and rich biodiversity in Kerala's Western Ghats, perfect for trekkers and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, misty atmosphere
Mathikettan Shola National Park
Best Time
Lush greenery, misty atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 'mind-confusing' paradise of misty shola forests and rich biodiversity in Kerala's Western Ghats, perfect for trekkers and nature lovers.
"Mathikettan Shola is a hidden paradise, offering a refreshing escape with its dense forests, misty hills, and rich wildlife."
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the confusing trails safely and learn about the flora/fauna. Essential for trekking! :hiking_boot:
Book Treks in Advance
Secure your spot for guided treks, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shola Forests
Throughout the park
Experience the unique, misty evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot.
Trekking Trails
Various routes
Explore winding paths through dense woods, offering stunning views and a chance for wildlife sightings.
Cardamom Plantations
Park periphery
Witness vast expanses of cardamom cultivation, adding a unique scent and landscape to the region.
Galaxy Frog
Specific habitats
Spot the endemic Melanobatrachus indicus, a flagship amphibian species for the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mist and Mystery
Trekking & Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the confusing trails safely and learn about the flora/fauna. Essential for trekking! :hiking_boot:
Book Treks in Advance
Secure your spot for guided treks, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Pack for Mist & Rain
Waterproofs and warm layers are a must, even in warmer months. :umbrella: :cloud:
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals. :deer: :elephant:
Tips
from all over the internet
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the confusing trails safely and learn about the flora/fauna. Essential for trekking! :hiking_boot:
Book Treks in Advance
Secure your spot for guided treks, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Pack for Mist & Rain
Waterproofs and warm layers are a must, even in warmer months. :umbrella: :cloud:
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals. :deer: :elephant:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer treks. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mathikettan Shola National Park is lauded as a hidden paradise for its serene greenery, misty shola forests, and rich biodiversity, offering a refreshing escape. Visitors appreciate the opportunity for trekking and spotting unique flora and fauna, though the park's confusing trails and limited amenities are noted.
"Mathikettan Shola National Park, near Poopara, is a hidden paradise for nature lovers seeking peace and greenery. Surrounded by dense shola forests, misty hills, and rich wildlife, it offers a refreshing escape from city life. The name “Mathikettan,” meaning “mind-confuser,” reflects the enchanting winding trails and magical forest ambience. It’s ideal for trekking and exploring untouched nature, with pure, cool air and breathtaking views. The park’s biodiversity is remarkable, with chances to spot rare birds and butterflies. For anyone visiting Munnar or Poopara, Mathikettan Shola is a must-see—a serene retreat into Kerala’s Western Ghats."
Anish Kumar S
"Mathikettan Shola National Park, Poopara
Mathikettan Shola is a hidden paradise near Poopara, perfect for those who love nature, greenery, and peaceful escapes. Surrounded by thick shola forests, mist-covered hills, and rich wildlife, the park offers a refreshing break from busy life. The name “Mathikettan” means “mind-confuser”—and it’s true, the winding trails and dense forests feel magical and enchanting.
It’s a great spot for trekking and exploring untouched nature. The air is pure and cool, the views are spectacular, and the silence of the forest makes the experience truly calming. The biodiversity here is impressive—you might even spot rare birds and butterflies along the way.
For anyone traveling around Munnar or Poopara, Mathikettan Shola is a must-visit. It’s not just a park, but a place where you can reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats at their finest. 🌿✨"
Krishnakumar P P
"A very good place where you may get to see elephants in the wild. High mountainous peaks covered with dense forest and quite a large area of cardamom plantation. Huge trees and tall mountains overwhelms you here.
Young and healthy can opt for long trekking over the mountains with local help.
You get to see Theni in Tamilnadu from the viewpoint we reached."
JC K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by road, located near Poopara in the Idukki district of Kerala. The nearest major towns are Munnar and Theni. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Poopara and then arrange for transport to the park entrance. 
The primary way to explore Mathikettan Shola is by trekking. Guided treks are highly recommended due to the confusing nature of the paths.
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), and the closest railway station is in Theni, Tamil Nadu. From these points, you'll need to arrange further transport.
You can drive to the vicinity of the park, but parking availability might be limited. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your guide about the best parking spots.
Yes, the park is accessible during the monsoon, and it's considered a beautiful time to visit due to the lush greenery. However, trails can be slippery, making a guide even more crucial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are Rs. 23/- per person for Indians and Rs. 300/- per person for foreigners. Trekking fees are an additional Rs. 500/- per person for both Indians and foreigners.
It's advisable to book trekking permits and arrange for guides in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or holidays.
Specific operating hours are not always clearly stated, but it's best to visit during daylight hours. Treks are typically arranged in the morning or afternoon.
National parks have strict regulations to protect wildlife and biodiversity. Activities like developmental work, forestry, poaching, hunting, and grazing are not permitted.
Refund policies are generally strict for national park entries and permits. It's best to confirm the terms and conditions at the time of booking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park is home to mammals like panthers, elephants, giant squirrels, and Nilgiri marten. You might also spot various reptiles, rare birds, and endemic butterflies.
Yes, the park's rich biodiversity makes it an excellent destination for bird watching, with numerous endemic and migratory species found here.
Guided treks are the best way to explore. Routes vary in difficulty and length, often leading through shola forests and offering scenic viewpoints.
While the dense forest can obscure views, some viewpoints offer glimpses of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including views towards Theni in Tamil Nadu.
Yes, camping facilities are available at the Amenity Centre (Rs. 200/- per person), Log House (Rs. 1500/- for 2 people), and Choondal Tribal Hut (Rs. 1500/- for 2 people).
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants or food stalls within the national park itself. It's recommended to carry your own snacks and water.
You can find local eateries and restaurants in the nearby town of Poopara, which offers basic South Indian cuisine.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and beverages. However, please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly.
While not specific to the park, try local Kerala cuisine in Poopara, which often includes rice-based dishes, curries, and fresh produce.
Some camping options, like the tribal hut, might offer meal packages. It's best to inquire about meal arrangements when booking your stay.
📸 📸 Photography
The misty shola forests, winding trails, diverse flora, and potential wildlife sightings offer great photographic opportunities. The Anayirangal dam viewpoint is also scenic.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be mindful of wildlife and avoid using flash that might disturb them.
A versatile lens (e.g., 18-55mm or 24-70mm) is good for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-300mm) is useful for wildlife.
Focus on the unique shola trees, endemic orchids, ferns, mosses, and if you're lucky, the Galaxy Frog or other wildlife.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a magical atmosphere, especially with the mist.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near trails and potential wildlife habitats. The park's name, 'mind-confuser,' might intrigue older kids, but emphasize safety and staying with the guide. It's a great opportunity to teach them about conservation and the importance of natural environments.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Trekkers
Consider the camping facilities for a more immersive experience, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the shola forests after dark. The park's relatively lower visitor numbers compared to more famous national parks make it ideal for those seeking a peaceful and less crowded adventure.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1Keep your camera ready for potential sightings of elephants, panthers, and the unique Galaxy Frog.
The park's undulating terrain and scenic viewpoints offer varied photographic subjects. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including a versatile lens and potentially a telephoto lens for wildlife. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Shola Forests
The climate in these shola regions is typically cool and humid, with heavy rainfall. This environment is crucial for maintaining the delicate ecological balance of the Western Ghats. Visitors often describe the experience of walking through these misty forests as magical and enchanting, living up to the park's name, 'Mathikettan,' which translates to 'mind-confuser.' The winding paths and dense vegetation can indeed make one feel lost in its beauty.
+1Conservation efforts in Mathikettan Shola focus on protecting this fragile ecosystem from invasive species and human encroachment. The park plays a vital role in safeguarding the region's wildlife and water sources. For nature enthusiasts, exploring these shola forests offers a profound connection with one of India's most ecologically significant landscapes.
+1Trekking and Wildlife Encounters
Guided treks are highly recommended, not only for safety but also to gain insights into the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides. The trails can be confusing, hence the park's name. Trekkers can expect to traverse through dense shola forests, open grasslands, and potentially encounter streams (though they might be dry in summer). The experience is often described as peaceful and rejuvenating, with pure, cool air and a sense of being deep in nature.
Beyond the larger fauna, keep an eye out for smaller wonders like the Galaxy Frog (Melanobatrachus indicus), an endemic amphibian that has become a flagship species for the park.
The park's designation as a national park ensures strict protection for its wildlife, contributing to the conservation of these species in their natural habitat. History and Conservation
The park's name, 'Mathikettan,' is derived from a Tamil term meaning 'mind confuser,' reflecting the labyrinthine nature of its forest paths, which local people believed could disorient visitors. This historical context adds to the park's mystique.
As a national park, Mathikettan Shola is a strictly protected area dedicated to the betterment of wildlife and biodiversity. Activities like development, forestry, poaching, hunting, and grazing are prohibited within its well-marked boundaries. This conservation status is crucial for safeguarding the unique ecosystems and species found within the park, contributing to the overall ecological health of the Western Ghats.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit