Mukurthi National Park

About Mukurthi National Park

Mukurthi National Park is located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris, 40 kms from Udhagamandalam. It contains a viable population of Nigiri Tahr (Hamitrgus-hilocrius) because of which it was earlier known as the Nilgiri Tahr National Park. Located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris, comprising rolling downs interspersed with temperate sholas, this park is also a part of Nilgiri Bio-sphere reserve (India's first International Biosphere).

Animlas at Mukurthi National Park

It contains a viable population on Nilgiri Tahr (Hamitragus-hilocrius), Sambhar, Barking deer, Nilgiri marten and otter, Jungle cat, Jackal etc. Apart from this, the park also houses endangered species like Indian elephant, Bengal Tiger, Nilgiri langur, Leopard, Bonnet macaque, Mouse Deer, Small Indian Civet, Wild dog, Black-naped Hare, Shrew, Malabar Spiny Dormouse and Soft-furred Rat and Bonhote's Mouse

Birds at Mukurthi National Park

Avifauna consists of hill birds viz laughing and whistling thrushes, woodcock, wild pigeon and black eagle. Butter-flies with Himalayan affinity like the Blue Admiral, Indian Red Admiral, Indian Fritillary, Indian Cabbage white, Hedge blues and rainbow trouts can be also be seen.

Trekking & Fishing at Mukurthi National Park

Trekking routes exist from Parsan valley, portimund, pykara etc. Trout fishing is recommended in the rivers and lakes of Mukurthi. Permission from Asst. Director, Fisheries Department, Udhagai, must be obtained in advance for fishing.

More Wildlife Sanctuaries of Tamilnadu:

Crocodile Bank
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Guindy National Park
Indiara Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary
Point Calimere Bird Sanctuary
Kunthakulam Bird Sanctuary
Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary