Mudumalai National
Park
Introduction
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary &
National Park is situated at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and
Karnataka on the North Eastern Slopes of the Nilgiris part of Western Ghats
descending to the Mysore Plateau. An erstwhile game reserve, Mudumalai was
declared a wildlife sanctuary with a 62 sq KM area in the early 1940 by the
then Madras Presidency. With Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka) in the north
and Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) in the west the region forms a single,
continuous viable habitat for a varied range of wildlife and is a part of the
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. While Mudumalai western half receives the southwest
monsoon, the eastern tracts receive the relatively gentler north-east
monsoon which results in a diversity of vegetation types and typical migration
of herbivores.
Situated in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu,
Mudumalai is flanked by Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary.
This contiguous forest, forming one of the most extensive ranges for the
Asiatic Elephant, is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and covers an area
of approximately 2000 sq.km. With its varied topography and rainfall pattern
from West to East, this Park has vegetation types ranging from moist deciduous
to dry deciduous and dry thorn forests. Mudumalai is best known for its Elephants
and herds of these are quite commonly seen along the National Highway which
bifurcates the Park. Other mammals commonly encountered are Gaur, Chital,
Sambar, Muntjac, Wild Boar, Common Langur, Bonnet Macaques, and Giant
Squirrels. The Dhole is the most visible predator and is found in packs varying
from 2 to 25 individuals. The Sanctuary is open throughout the year, but the
monsoon months are best avoided and also the driest months of April and May,
when the Park staff are engaged in fire fighting.
The Mudumalai
National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary also a declared Tiger Reserve, lies
on the northwestern side of the Nilgiri Hills (Blue Mountains), in Nilgiri District,
about 150 km (93 mi) north-west of Coimbatore city in Kongu Nadu region
of Tamil Nadu. It shares its boundaries with the states
of Karnataka and Kerala. The sanctuary is divided into 5 ranges –
Masinagudi, Theppakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi and Nellakota.
The
protected area is home to several endangered and vulnerable species including Indian elephant,
Bengal Tiger, Gaur and Indian Leopard. There
are at least 266 species of birds in the sanctuary, including critically
endangered Indian White-rumped
Vulture and long-billed vulture.
The Western Ghats,
Nilgiri Sub-Cluster (6,000 km2 (2,300 sq mi)), including
all of Mudumalai National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage
Committee for selection
as a World Heritage Site.
General Information
Mudumalai
National Park
முதுமலை தேசிய பூங்கா மற்றும் வனவிலங்கு காப்பகம் முதுமலை புலிகள் காப்பகம் Mudumalai Tiger Reserve |
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Country
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State
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Established
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1940
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Area
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• Total
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321 km2 (124 sq mi)
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Elevation
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1,266 m
(4,154 ft)
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Languages
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• Official
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Nearest city
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II
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67 kilometres
(42 mi) SE
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90 kilometres
(56 mi) NE
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160 kilometres
(99 mi) SE
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Governing body
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2,000 millimeters
(79 in)
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Avg. summer temperature
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33 °C (91 °F)
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Avg. winter temperature
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14 °C (57 °F)
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Recommended Private
Accommodation
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Website
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Introduction & History
Mudumalai
has a rich and varied history. These teak-rich forests were originally temple
property (belonging to the Raja of the Nilambur). Logging began here in the
early nineteenth century when it was leased to timber merchants. The lease was
transferred to the Government in 1862 for a reported annual rent of just
Rs.3500/- In 1914 Mudumalai became State Government property and in 1927 it was
declared a Reserve Forest.
The
first step towards protection was initiated in 1940 when an area of
approximately 60sq.km was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary. The Second World War,
however, intervened and a jungle warfare training camp was established here to
prepare troops for the fighting in Burma. The remnants of this can still be
seen today and has reportedly been used by Wild Dogs whilst shifting dens with
their pups. In 1977, Mudumalai along with a part of the Sigur Range was
reorganized as a Wildlife Sanctuary covering a total area of 321 sq.km.
This
tract is drained by the Moyar, which flows through the Sanctuary and then turns
east to form the northern boundary between Mudumalai and Bandipur. The Mysore -
Udhagamandalam (Ootacamund) highway that runs north to south splits the Park.
Location & Geography
Mudumalai
is situated in the Nilgiri Hills of the state of Tamil Nadu and is bordered by
Bandipura Tiger Reserve to the north and Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary to the west.
This contiguous forest, forming one of the finest and most extensive ranges for
the Asiatic Elephant, is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and covers an
area of approximately 2000 sq.km
Area:
Wildlife
Sanctuary: 217.76 sq.km.
National
Park: 103.24 sq.km.
Total: 321.00 sq.km.
Latitude: 11°33' - 11°39' N
Longitude: 76°23' - 76°43' E
Elevation: Approximately 1000 metres (3280 feet)
Annual
Rainfall: Mudumalai receives
most of its rainfall from the South West monsoon which commences in May and
continues till September/October. The Northeast monsoon also causes some
precipitation, but this is very light. Due to the topography, the amount of
rainfall varies through the area, with the western part of the Sanctuary
receiving heavy precipitation but the eastern part, lying in the rain shadow,
receiving considerably less. This results in a strong west-east gradient, with
average rainfall ranging from 2300 mm-900 mm. (90-35 inches)
Temperature: Temperatures range from 14°C (57.2°F) to
35°C(95°F) with the coldest month being January and the hottest, May
The
Mudumalai Sanctuary is as an important wildlife habitat due to its strategic
position as Wildlife between several other protected areas that are a part
of the Nilgiri Biosphere
Reserve. To the north is
the Bandipur National
Park and Nagarhole National
Park. To the west is the Wayanad Wildlife
Sanctuary and in the
south are Mukurthi National
Park and Silent Valley
National Park. To
the east is the Sigur Plateau which connects to the Satyamangalam
wildlife sanctuary and
Reserve forests and Biligirirangan Hills
Wildlife Sanctuary. These
parks, sanctuaries and the adjoining Reserve forests cover over 3,300 square
kilometres (1,300 sq mi) of forest supporting a population of
1800–2300 elephants.
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The
elevation of the sanctuary varies from a minimum of 960 metres (3,150 ft)
m to a maximum of 1,266 metres (4,154 ft). The sanctuary has a tropical savanna
climate or tropical
wet and dry climate that corresponding to the
categories Aw and As of the Köppen climate
classification.
Rainfall ranges from 790 mm (31 in) to 2,000 mm (79 in).
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
There
are 48 tigers in the Nilgiri Reserve across which tigers are free to roam. In
April 2007, the Tamil Nadu state government declared Mudumalai as a Tiger
Reserve, under section 38V of the Wildlife, in an effort to conserve the
country's dwindling Tiger populations. Subsequently, about 350 families living
in the core area have been evicted from the park and given 1 million rupee
($20,800) compensation. Those in the 5 km buffer area around the park fear
they too will be evicted; however, nobody will be dislodged from the buffer
zone. In fact, some people in this zone will be involved in the project as
trackers and guides to enhance their income through eco-tourism.
Continuance
of Project Tiger’ in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve for FY 2010/11, at the cost of
Rs.40 million, was approved by the National
Tiger Conservation Authority on 16 September 2010.
Flora
There
are three main types of forest in the sanctuary: tropical moist deciduous occur in the western Benne Block, where rainfall is higher than
in the other blocks. Tropical dry
deciduous forest occurs
in the middle and southern tropical
dry thorn forests are
in the east.
In
addition there are patches of tropical semi ever green forest in the Southwest
and Western part of Mudumalai. The annual rainfall there exceeds 2,000 mm
(79 in).
Tree
species in this habitat include Casseria
ovoides, Litsea mysorensis, Cinnamomum
malabatrum andOlea dioca. Climbers including Sneeze Wort (Watakaka volubilis), Gnetum ula and Entada scandens are
also found in these semi evergreen forests.
Moist
Bamboo brakes are
found amidst dry deciduous, moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests and
along the fringes of riparian forests and swamps. There are two species of
bamboo found in Mudumalai, the giant clumping bamboos: Bambusa (arundinacea)
andDendrocalamus
strictus. Elephants and
Gaur eat both species of bamboo.
In
all types of forest, a green strip of riparian forest is
seen along the shore of dry seasonal and perennial streams. This type of forest
remains green in all seasons. The plant species found here includes: Mangifera indica, Pongamia glabra, Terminalia arjuna, Syzygium cumini, Indian rosewood Dalbergia
latifolia and the bamboos. Larger mammals such as elephant, gaur, sambar
and tiger use riparian forest patches for feeding and resting.
This
sanctuary is home to several species of wild relatives of cultivated plants
including wild rice, wild ginger, turmeric, Cinnamon, Solanum, Guava, mango and
pepper that act as a reserve gene pool for the cultivated plants. In
certain places mixed vegetation types are present. The deciduous trees shed
their green leaves during the summer, and adopt a floral garb while the arrival
of the monsoons hails fruits and tender greens.
Tropical
moist-deciduous vegetation towards the western parts of the sanctuary gives way
to dry-deciduous and thorn-scrub along the east. It is varied with tall grasses
called ‘Elephant grass’, Bamboo, valuable timber like Teak, Rosewood, Mathi,
Vengai, Venteak and fine flowering trees and shrubs like Indian laburnum, Flame
of the forest and Coral trees. Riverine patches and swamps add to diversity.
Among the fruit bearers are jamun, nelli, jujuba and varieties of wild Figs.
The
varied topography and resulting rainfall pattern from West to East has resulted
in vegetation types that range from moist deciduous to dry deciduous and dry
thorn forests.
The moist deciduous forest is generally composed of Laegostroemia microcorpa,Terminalia crenulata, Syzigium cuminii, Teak (Tectona grandis), and Bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea).
The moist deciduous forest is generally composed of Laegostroemia microcorpa,Terminalia crenulata, Syzigium cuminii, Teak (Tectona grandis), and Bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea).
Shorea
roxburgi, Terminalia
crenulata and Anogeissus latifolia dominate the dry
deciduous forest found mainly in the northern part. The southern part mainly
has Teak (Tectona grandis).
The
eastern part of the Sanctuary, which adjoins the Sigur plateau, is
characterized by thorn and scrub forests. The trees are stunted and grow poorly
with Zizyphus and Acacia species being predominant.
Trees
such as Ficus sps., Mango (Mangifera indica) Terminalia arjuna, Schleichera
oleasa, along with Bambusa arundinacea are found along
water courses like the Moyar and its tributaries.
Fauna
It
is an exciting place to see Elephant, Gaur, Chowsingha, Mouse deer and Sloth
bear. The animals include, Tiger, Panther, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer,
Blackbuck, Common Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel, Four-horned
Antelope (Chowsingha), Wild Dog, Jackal, Mongoose, Jungle Cat, Rusty Spotted
Cat, Leopard Cat Striped Hyena, Leopard-cat, Small Indian Civet, Striped-necked
Mongoose, Ruddy Mongoose, Sloth Bear, Indian Giant Squirrel,, Sloth Bear, Wild
Boar, Porcupine, Striped Hyena, Slender Lories, etc.. Tigers are largely
elusive but leopards or a pack of Wild Dog, on the move are frequently seen.
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The
reptiles present are the Python, Monitor Lizard, Flying Lizard, Cobra, Krait ,
Vipers etc.
There
is a high diversity of animal life in the sanctuary with about 50 species of
fishes, 21 species of amphibians, 34 species of reptiles, 227 species of birds
and 55 species of mammals. Mammal diversity is higher in the dry deciduous and
dry thorn forests than in the other habitats. Thirteen percent of all mammal
species in India are present in Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary.
Mudumalai
is best known for its Elephants (Elephas maximus) and herds of
these are quite commonly seen along the National Highway which bifurcates the
Park. Visitors encountering Elephants along the Highway are advised to maintain
a safe distance and give these herds the right of way. Under no circumstances
should visitors alight from their vehicle or disturb the animals by honking or
shouting, as this can be very dangerous.
The
other herbivores commonly seen include Gaur (Bos gaurus),
spotted deer or Chital, Sambar (Cervus unicolor), Barking Deer or Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak) and Wild Boar (Sus scrofa). Three species of primates are found here - the Common Langur (Semnopithecus entellus), the Bonnet Macaque (Macaca radiata) and the slender loris (Loris tardigradus).
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Amongst
the predators, Tigers (Panthera tigris) and Leopards (Panthera pardus) are occasionally seen.
Possibly, the most visible predator is the Indian Wild Dog or Dhole (Cuon alpinus),
which is found in packs varying from 2 to 25 individuals in a single group.
Almost
all visitors to Mudumalai will see a few Giant Malabar Squirrels
(Ratufa indica) and Sloth Bears (Melurses ursinus) are also quite easy to see. If one is extremely lucky one may
spot Mouse Deer (Tragulus meminna) or Chowsingha (Tetracerus
quadricorn)
The
diversity of habitat is reflected in the richness of birdlife which includes
species such as Malabar Blue Winged Parakeet, the Malabar Grey Hornbill, the
Malabar Great Black Woodpecker, the Crested Serpent Eagle, the Crested Hawk
Eagle to name a few.
Mammal
species
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found
in India
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in
Mudumalai
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and
their percentage in MWS
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#
species in India
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#
species in MWS
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%
in MWS
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15
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3
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20.00
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34
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7
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20.50
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many
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29
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100
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58
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19
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32.70
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1
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1
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100
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11
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1
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9.09
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3
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2
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66.66
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102
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14
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13.73
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113
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7
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6.19
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Of
15 cat species in India, 4 live in Mudumalai: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Jungle cat and Leopard cat.
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve has the highest density of tigers in the country. For
every 8.67 km2, there is now at least one tiger in Mudumalai. There
are 44 to 80 Tigers (E) in the Mudumalai forest. The single largest
tiger population in India (Mudumalai – Nagarhole – Wynad) includes the
Mudumalai tigers. These tigers are a breeding source for populating the
Northern and Eastern parts of the Western Ghats. This population exists at high
density due to the high density of prey species thriving in its deciduous
forests.
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The Indian leopard (P.
pardus fusca) (NT) is most often seen in the Kargudi area.
Other carnivores include the Dhole (Cuon alpinus) (V), the Striped Hyena (Hyaena
hyaena) (NT), the Golden Jackal (Canis
aureus) and the Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) (V). The population
of Indian Elephants, Elephas maximus indicus (E), totals
several hundred animals. Three Primates found
here include the Gray langur (Semnopithecus priam) and the Bonnet Macaque (Macaca
radiata). Important prey animals for tigers and panthers here are theUngulates including
the Gaur (Bos gaurus)
(V), the Sambar Deer (Cervus unicolor) (VU), the Chital deer (Axis
axis), Indian Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), the Indian Spotted
Chevrotain, Moschiola
indica, and the Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), all of whom are common
here. Rodents include
the Indian Giant
Squirrel (Ratufa
indica maxima) and the Red Giant Flying
Squirrel (Petaurista
petaurista).
Amongst
reptiles the Common Cobra, Indian Rock Python, and the Common Krait are found
here. Calotes (garden lizard) are very visible and if one is lucky, one may
even see a Draco (flying lizard), or a Chameleon. There are Mugger
crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) in the Moyar, but beyond the tourism zone. Soft shell turtles are
seen basking on logs by water bodies and the star tortoise is also reported
from the area.
Avifauna
Some
of the rare birds of prey like the Rufous bellied hawk eagle can be
occasionally seen in this Sanctuary. Avifauna is varied with Changeable Hawk
Eagle, Black Eagle, Oriental Honey-buzzard, Jerdon’s Baza, Bonelli’s Eagle,
Crested Goshawk, Besra, Mottled Wood Owl, Brown Hawk Owl Minivet, Hornbills,
Golden Oriole, Chloropsis, Paradise flycatcher, Golden backed and Malabar Great
Black woodpeckers, Bluewinged parakeet, Fairy bluebird, Jungle fowl Racket
tailed drongo, Peacock Grey, Junglefowl, Red Spurfowl, Grey Francolin, Painted
Spurfowl, Painted Bush Quail, White bellied Woodpecker, Lesser Yellownape,
Golden Woodpecker, Streak-throated Woodpecker, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater,
Emerald Dove, Green Imperial Pigeon, Pompadour Green Pigeon, Grey-bellied
Cuckoo, Indian Cuckoo, Alpine Swift, Black-hooded Oriole, Greater Racket-tailed
Drongo, Black-headed Cuckooshrike, Grey-headed Bulbul, Forest Wagtail,
Crimson-bcked Sunbird, Loten’s Sunbird.
Eight
percent of bird species in India are occurring in Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
Among the 227 bird species found in Mudumalai, 110 species are insectivores, 62
are carnivores, 23 species are fishivores, 12 species are omnivores and 20
species are grainivores. These include the unique near threatened Black-and-orange
Flycatcher. Regional endemics
include Malabar trogon and Malabar grey
hornbill.
Some
rare birds of prey like the Rufous bellied hawk
eagle can
occasionally be seen in this sanctuary. Other predatory birds include crested hawk-eagle, crested serpent
eagle, Changeable Hawk
Eagle, Black Eagle, Oriental
Honey-buzzard, Jerdon's Baza, Bonelli's Eagle, Crested Goshawk, Besra,Mottled Wood Owl and Brown Hawk Owl, Minivet.sp.
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There
are also Hornbills, Golden Oriole, Chloropsis, Paradise flycatcher, Golden-backed
Woodpecker Malabar Great Black
Woodpecker, Blue-winged Parakeet, Fairy bluebird,Jungle fowl Racket-tailed Drongo, Peacock, Red Spurfowl, Grey Francolin, Painted Spurfowl, Painted Bush Quail, White-bellied
Woodpecker, Lesser Yellownape, Golden Woodpecker, Streak-throated
Woodpecker, Chestnut-headed
Bee-eater, Emerald Dove, Green Imperial
Pigeon, Pompadour Green
Pigeon, Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Indian Cuckoo,Alpine Swift, Black-hooded Oriole, Greater
Racket-tailed Drongo, Black-headed
Cuckooshrike, Grey-headed Bulbul, Forest Wagtail, Crimson-backed
Sunbird and Loten's Sunbird. It
also holds the isolated southern population of the Striped Tit-babbler.
Park attractions
Attractions
in the park include:
1.
Scenic
spots in the sanctuary are the Chief Minister’s Watchtower, the view point
at Kargudi, the Ombetta Lake and the Safari Van rides on Sand Road, Circular
Road, Manradiar Road, Jayadev Avenue and Bombax Road. The public roads:
Kakkanalli – Torapalli road, Teppakkadu – Masanagudi road and Moyar –
Masanagudi road are also rewarding places to see wild life in the Sanctuary.
2.
Moyar
River running through the dense forest is a good place to see animals when
they come to drink water from the river.
3.
'Moyar
River Gorge, also called the Moyar Canyon, is a dramatic 20 km
(12 mi) long gorge dug out by Moyar River, which plunges into the gorge
below Theppakadu in a roaring water-fall popularly known as Moyar falls.
4.
Elephant
Safari and Van Safari, conducted by the Tamil Nadu Forest
Department, depart from park
headquarters at Theppakadu
5.
The
Elephant Feeding Camp where one can interact with elephants and see how
they are fed. The captive elephants in the sanctuary are no longer used for
timber extraction work, since these areas are managed exclusively as protected
areas. The elephants are engaged mainly for Eco-tourism,
patrolling for anti poaching operations, to control Man-Elephant
conflict outside the
sanctuary or other areas and as a conservation and training centre for
elephants which can be visited by public.
6.
Museum near
the Elephant feeding camp is where some animals that once lived in the
Mudumalai Jungle are preserved.
7.
Kallatty
falls located 30 km (19 mi) from Theppakadu, is a beautiful
falls with a breathtaking view.
8.
Pykara
Lake – Located 40 km (25 mi) from Theppakadu is a clean and
scenic lake situated between the hills. It is an isolated lake free from
pollution and crowds. Boating is conducted here. An annual summer boat race was
introduced to this lake in 2008.
9.
Bandipur
National Park: Bandipur National Park is known for its tiger population. Also,
the park shelters some of the most rare and endangered species of wildlife.
Bandipur National Park is one of the protected areas within Nilgiri Biosphere
Reserve, which is an
International Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats.
10. Wayanad Sanctuary: This sanctuary is the second
largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is bestowed with lush green
forests and rich wildlife. It houses some of the rare and endangered species of
both flora and fauna. The sanctuary comes under Protect Elephant and one can
spot herd of elephants roaming in the area.
11. Masinagudi: There are night safaris in open top
jeeps arranged by resorts and guides who are freely accessible in Masinagudi.
The night safaris are conducted on the peripheral roads running through the
adjoining forest and not into the park. Such night safaris are illegal and
create disturbance to the animals of this region. There was a recent incident
of a French tourist being killed by a wild elephant when she went on one such
safari.
12. Theppakadu
is the Reception Point, where accommodation, Van rides and Elephant rides are
arranged.
13. Ombetta
vayal – swampy area is mid way between upper Kargudi and Mudumalai game hut is
a place to lookout for elephant and Bison.
Elephant
Camp at Theppakadu
The
Theppakadu Elephant Camp was established in 1972 in Mudumalai Range, which
became the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in 1942. Its predecessor which served
as Range Headquarters was established in 1910 near the Mudumalai game hut and
later shifted to Theppakadu.
The
Forest Department took up elephant capturing by the conventional Pit Method
from 1889 onwards in the Madras Presidency, mainly to build up the work force of
elephants needed for timber extraction. In the Anamalais where large areas were
cleared for planting with teak, elephant capturing operation was taken up in
1889. Till 1972 more than 600 elephants were captured from wild to meet the
demand for working elephants.
In
Mudumalai, elephant capturing was taken up in 1910 and continued till 1953.
Thus there was a necessity of building up permanent Camp Sites with necessary
infrastructure such as “Kraals” to train newly captured elephants. Surplus
elephants and elephants considered not fit enough for timber extraction work
such as calves were disposed of by conducting auction sales.
The
use of local tribal people as elephant handlers clearly predated the
establishment of elephant camps. This system was followed mainly because of the
tribals’ expertise in the jungles, their long traditional association with
capture and training elephants. Even today, the local tribals are the backbone
of capturing, training and handling of elephant in the forest department.
The
Kurumbas in Mudumalai, the Malasars, the Pullayars and Kadars of Anamalais are
some of the tribals who have traditional knowledge in the art of capturing,
training and handling elephants.
The captive elephants in the sanctuaries and national parks are no longer used for timber extraction work, since these areas are managed exclusively as protected areas. Hence the elephants are engaged mainly for the following purposes.
The captive elephants in the sanctuaries and national parks are no longer used for timber extraction work, since these areas are managed exclusively as protected areas. Hence the elephants are engaged mainly for the following purposes.
Ø Eco tourism
Ø Patrolling for anti poaching operations
Ø To control Man-Elephant conflict outside the
Sanctuaries or other areas (Kumki work)
Ø As a conservation & Training center for Asian
elephants which can be visited by public.
At
present all the captive elephants are stationed either at Theppakadu. This
creates considerable pressure on the exciting fodder resources around these
camps. The surrounding area appears depleted of fodder. The addition,
indiscriminate lopping of fodder trees within 10 kms radius around the camps
has resulted in the total absence of many of the fodder trees particularly many
species of Ficus, Grewia, Kydia etc. For this purpose and also to avoid
infections through fecal infestation, periodic shifting of camp to rest
locations is Mandatory.
The
camp has a permanent Stores shed to keep the grain rations as well as various
equipments and accoutrements intended for the day today use in the camp.
The
elephant camp has one Forester who is responsible for the day to day management
of the camp. A forest guard and sometimes a Forest Watcher assist him. The
forest Range officer has the administrative control over the supervision of the
camp and the staff.
Two
persons, a mahout and cavady handle elephant over two meters in height. For the
elephants less than 2 meters in height such as the calves, only one attendant
in the rank of Cavady is in charge.
All
the elephants, in addition to natural grazing, are provided with grain rations
in cooked form. The standard practice and norms are being followed. The Forest
Veterinary Officer is the authority to fix the quantum of grain rations for
each animal according to its size, sex, capacity for work etc.
Elephants
used for work such as timber dragging, patrolling or any other hard work are
given “work rations” as and when they are used for work. Resting animals or
animals that are not engaged for work are given the “Rest Diet” which is less
than the work rations since these animals spend comparatively more time in
grazing.
An
elephant being a mega herbivore needs to spend at least 16-18 hours per day for
grazing and the working elephants spend considerably less time. In addition
they spend every for various types of works for which they are engaged. Hence
they have to be compensated by providing more grain rations.
Some
animals such as pregnant elephants, lactating or nursing mothers and animals,
which are in run down condition, are prescribed special rations by the Forest
Veterinary Officer or the Veterinary Assistant Surgeon in the camp.
The
grain rations normally consist of Horse gram and Ragi and sometimes Rice. The
prescribed rations are given in cooked from both in the morning and evening at
fixed hours. In Mudumalai large number tourists witness the evening feeding.
Standardized
Wooden Moulds are used for making cakes of known size and weight to facilitate
easy check. If the animals are being fed the proper quantity of rations are
prescribed. Each feeding shed prominently displays the ration chart indicating
the quantity of rations prescribed for each elephant. This chart also has the
biodata of the animals. This practice had been in vogue for long time and is
followed in every camp.
The
elephant camp at Theppakadu serves an important educational purpose, where over
a lakhs visitors every year, see the management and feeding of pachyderms and
thereby increasing public awareness about the species. This also serves an
important center for Research and Training for capture elephant management.
Theppakadu
elephant camp is located just nearer to Theppakadu Reception Centre. There are
23 elephants. Visitors are allowed to this camp in the evening during elephant
feeding to witness the feeding process. Everyday 2 elephants perform Pooja to
Lord Vinayaka inside the camp. The elephants are used for joy riding of
tourists early morning and evening on charges.
Travel
Mudumalai approached from
Theppakadu or Kargudi is a mixture of deciduous and grass area and rewarding
with all the herbivores and carnivores.
The nearest international
airport is at Coimbatore (130 km
(81 mi)) and the closest railway station, is at Ooty (67 km
(42 mi)). The other nearby railway stations include Mysore(90 km
(56 mi)), Coimbatore (130 km
(81 mi)) and Erode (160 km
(99 mi)) which are on the major broad gauge line served by trains from
across the country. The park is most conveniently accessible by road from Mysore on NH 212 to Gundalpet,
then NH 67 to Theppakadu.
There are two routes from Ooty; one is via Kallatty, 36 km (22 mi) on
the Masinagudi road that has 36 hairpin bends and the other by NH 67 via
Gudalur which is 67 km (42 mi) from Ooty. There are regular bus
services that connect all the major adjoining cities with this sanctuary.
By
Road:
The
Sanctuary is well connected by National Highway. All buses plying from Mysore
to Ooty stop at the Reception Centre at Theppakadu.
It
is approachable from Ooty by two different routes.
One is via Kallatty, 36 KM
from Ooty that has 36 hairpin bends through natural forests.
The other route is via Gudalur which is 67 KM from Ooty. It can also be approached by road from Mysore 91 KM away.
The other route is via Gudalur which is 67 KM from Ooty. It can also be approached by road from Mysore 91 KM away.
By
Train:
Nearest Railway station: Ooty
– 67 KM., Mysore – 90 KM
By
Air:
Coimbatore – 160 KM, Bangalore
– 245 KM.
Nearest
Fuel Stations:
Thorapalli – 7 KM., (towards
Gudalur), Gudalur – 18 KM., (towards Ooty) Gundalpet – 30 KM (towards Mysore)
Activities
Jungle
Safari
You can enjoy jungle safari on
the vehicles (van) of the forest department & private jeep Safari also. On
your way, you can notice group of elephants and spotted dear, the Sambar that
pricks its ears, langurs jumping from one tree to another and many other
glamorous varieties of birds.
The Jungle Safari is a place
that allows people to come and experience exotic animals living in their
natural habitat. Both vehicle safaris and elephant safaris are available
through the Forest Department. One Jeep is used and is operated on a first come
first served basis. The jeep can only accommodate six people at a time. Van
safaris are available as well. The van holds 25 people at one time.
Timing
Morning - From 5.30 AM
Evening - From 4 PM
Main
Road Safari
Private Road Safaris are also available
on hydro-electric project road and village roads. On the way, you can see Elephants,
Tiger, Buffaloes, Wolf, Snake, Deers which will be crossing the road. For sure,
you will come out with a fantastic experience
Timing
Morning - From 5.30 AM
Evening - From 4 PM
Elephant
Safari
In Mudumalai, 40 minutes
elephant safari has been started with bookings to be done at the Ooty forest
office and 50% of tickets sold at Mudumalai Theppakadu reception center on a
first come first serve basis.
Booking can be done by us
also. Subject to weather conditions
Maximum 4 people per elephant
Timing
Morning - 7 AM to 8.30 AM
Evening - 3.30 PM to 5 PM.
Bird
Watching
Bird watching or birding is
the observation and study of birds with the naked eye or through a visual
enhancement device like binoculars. Mudumalai bird sanctuary is very rich in
birdlife suitable for bird watching by experienced and novice birders. In
Mudumalai, Birding often involves a significant auditory component, as many
bird species are more readily detected and identified by ear than by eye.
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.
Ø Brown
Fish Owl
Ø Spotted
Owlet
Ø Grey
Jungle Fowl
Ø Great
Pied Hornbill
Ø White
Bellied Minivet
Ø White
Bellied Wood Pecker
Ø Tree
Pie
Water
Hole Visit
Water hole visit is an
activity which is conducted by Private Agencies. When you sit near the hole,
animals will come to see you. This will be a nice experience for you in our
activities. It’s a day program where animals will come and meet you.
Camping
Camping is nothing but staying
in the tent for one whole night. Camp fire is also there
Timing will be only at night.
Timing will be only at night.
Tree
Top Watch Tower
Private Resorts have privately
owned tree houses in private forest near water hole, where you can sit and
watch wild animals and beautiful birds, all the animals come under your seat.
The most enjoyable activity in your plan & will be too awesome.
The most enjoyable activity in your plan & will be too awesome.
River
Side Picnic
River Side Picnic will be
arranged by Private Agencies to relax ourselves along the river-side. You can
find cool air with silent atmosphere. You can hear birds sound like a music.
Swimming
Swimming in the Forest Steams
& Ponds will mesmerize your inner soul. Lot of choices are available for
this activity. Be careful while indulging in Swimming. Swimming in the natural
pool will have lot of medicinal values as these waters are soaked in natural
herbs which is good for health.
Sanctuary
Drive
Game sanctuary drive will be
arranged by forest department. They will arrange a van which has capacity to
carry more than 20 peoples.
Best
time to visit
Throughout the year (except
between June and August). The Sanctuary is likely to close during the driest
months of April and May, when the Forest Department staff are engaged in fire
fighting
The area records equable
climes with summer temperatures at a moderate 290C and reasonable winters at
100C lower. The rainfall averages around 700 mm. per year. The southwestern
winds bring an abundance of rain lasting from April to June. October and
November also receive some rain. December to June is the ideal season to be at
Mudumalai. In the summers, the sanctuary is closed. Early mornings and the
afternoons, when official tours are usually arranged, ensure diverse sightings.
Communications
There are three post offices
in the sanctuary. STD/ISD/PCO telephone
service is available in Theppakadu, Masinagudi, Thorapalli and the nearby
towns. The only mobile phone network (BSNL) is available in
the Sanctuary.
Threats
Tourism, especially in the Sigur/Masinagudi
area, is claimed by some to pose a threat to the region, but this is strongly
repudiated by persons who live and work in the area. The extensive growth
of Invasive species, such
as lantana,
that hinder the natural regeneration process of the forests has occurred as a
result of excessive cattle grazing. Construction activities of the
proposed India-based Neutrino Observatory at Singara,
Masinagudi, are likely to have significant impacts on the local wildlife. The
5-year work plan, high volume of debris and waste disposal, blasting
activities, extensive vehicular activity and large number of outside workers
and their support infrastructure all threaten to disrupt the wildlife corridor on
the Sigur plateau, including Mudumalai Sanctuary, connecting the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.
Entry
Fees & Timings
Entry Fee
Ø
Rs
15 per Person
Ø
Rs
25 For still Cameras
Ø
Rs
150 For Video Cameras
Ø
All days of
the week
Ø
6:30
AM - 9:00 AM
Ø
3:30
PM - 6:00 PM
Facts
Ø Theppakadu
which is the entry point to the park also has a tourist reception centre from
where all the tourist facilities can be availed.
Ø Entry
of private vehicles is not allowed. Trekking inside the park is prohibited.
Ø An
Elephant camp located inside the sanctuary is a major tourist attraction.
Ø Mini
bus safari timings are 7 to 9 AM and 3 to 6:30 PM.
Ø Museum near
the Elephant Feeding Camp offers visitors information on wildlife that was once
found in the Mudumalai Jungle.
Ø Mudumalai
has high diversity of animal life. About 55 species of mammal, 227 species of
birds, 50 species of fishes, 34 species of reptiles and 21 species of
amphibians are found in the park.
Ø Thirteen
percent of all mammal species in India are found in Mudumalai.
Timings
|
·
Safari timings ( Tamil
Nadu Forest Department at Theppakadu and Karnataka Forest Department at
Bandipur )
·
6:30AM to 9AM and 3:30PM
to 6:00PM.
·
Entry point at Karnataka
Forest check point is closed from 9PM to 6AM.
·
Entry from Theppakadu to
Masinagudi is closed from 8PM to 6PM.
|
Accommodation
The forest department has
cottages in various locations within the forests available on a first come
first serve basis, and there are various private resorts and guest houses that
visitors can stay in.
Being a wildlife sanctuary it
is surrounded by resorts and home stays.
Tamil Nadu Forest Department
The Tamil Nadu Forest
Department has accommodation in Forest Rest Houses at Theppakadu, Kargudi,
Abayaranyam and Masinagudi. Prices for these ranges from Rs.25/- per head for a
bed in a dormitory to Rs.300/- for a suite with 2 beds. The caretakers of the
lodges can provide simple and basic meals, but it is advisable to travel with
dry rations. Masinagudi is a flourishing little township where one can buy just
about anything from Mineral water, soft drinks to meals at the local
eatery.
Wildlife Warden
Mudumalai and Mukurthi
National Parks and Sanctuary,
Mount Stuart Hill,
Ooty – 643001
Ph: + 91 0423 44098
Reception Range Officer,
Mudumalai and Mukurthi National
Parks and Sanctuary, Theppakadu
Nilgiris District, Tamilnadu
Ph: 0423-526235
A personal visit to the
reservation office in Udhagamandalam is necessary to confirm your bookings.
Greenwoods nature camp
No.3/136, Mollapalli,
Thorapalli, Mudumalai Village
2 Kms off Ooty - Mysore Road,
Gudalur Taluk,
Nilgiris,
Tamilnadu – 643211
Karnataka - + 91 – 9620401689
Tamilnadu - + 91 – 9442662853
/ 9710841751
Jungle Retreat
Jungle Retreat, Masinagudi.
Nilgiri District
Tamil Nadu – 643223,
Ph: +91 (0)423 2526469/70/59.
Wild Woods haven
8/323, Achakarai, Masinagudi,
The Nilgiris 643 223
Ph: +91 94 43052360
The Bank details are as
follows:
Name of Account: Wild
Woods Haven
Bank: State Bank of
India
Branch: Ooty
(Udhagamandalam)
Account No: 3219 3308
186
IFS Code: SBIN 0000
891
Secret Ivory
Secret Ivory Farm & Guest
House
Achakarai
Masinagudi, Mudumalai
Tamilnadu – 643223
Mobile: +91 944
3204102
Office:
+91 - 423 2526844
Glenview Resorts
Bokkapuram
Masinagudi - 643 223
The Nilgiris
Reservations [Bangalore]: +91
98450 44322
Office Landline [Bangalore]:
+91 80-2572 4180
Operation time - 9:00 AM to
6:00 PM (Mon - Sat)
Bear Mountain Jungle Resort
Bokkapuram Village,
Masinagudi
Tamilnadu – 643223
Ph: +91 –
9884050575/9443326504
The Wilderness
Corp. Address
#38, Richmond Road, Opp
Cathedral School,
Bangalore 560025
Ph: +91-80-25573191
Property Address
Allurvayal, Thorpally
Mudumalai, TN
Bharath S
Ph: +91-98450-50892
P A Varghese
Ph: +91-9488428923
Deer meadow
Ph: +91 – 8041230008
Ph: +91 – 9448485160CT ADDRESS
Jungle Hut
Bokkapuram, Masinagudi,
Nilgiris - 643 223.
Tamil Nadu, India.
Mobile: +91 9787 633433
Telephone: +91 423 2526463
Telefax: +91 423 2526240
Blue Valley Resorts
Bokkapuram, Masinagudi,
Nilgiris, Tamilnadu
Ph: 91-
0423-2526244, 2526344
Fax: 91- 0423-2526319
Casa Deep Wood
Koil Rd, Masinagudi, Tamilnadu
- 643223
Ph: 91- 0423-225555-1101
TTDC Youth Hostel
Theppakadu
Ph: 91- 0423-256249
Bamboo Banks farm
Masinagudi
Ph: 91- 0423-256222, 256211
Phone: +91 94433 73201 (Mr.
Zerasp Kothavala)
Email:
Belmont Retreat
Bokkapuram
Ph: 91- 0423-256253
Gem Holiday Resorts Ltd
Bokkapuram
Ph: 91- 0423-256296
Monarch Safari Park
Bokkapuram
Ph: 91- 0423-256250, 256343, 256326
Mountain Rest House
Masinagudi
Ph: 91- 0423-256240, 256267
Jain Resorts
Vazhai Thottam
Ph: 91- 0423-256318
Forest Hills Farm &
Guesthouse
Bokkapuram, Masinagudi
P.O.,
Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu 643223
Ph: 91- 0423-2526216, 2526399
Jungle Home
12 / 464,
Thorapalli, Gudalur,
Nilgiris District,
Tamil Nadu.
Ph: 91- 042362 - 264198
The Tiger Paw Resort
Masinagudi (P.O),
The Nilgiris,
Tamil Nadu-643223.
Telephone: 0423-2526909,
De Rock - Jungle Living
4/126D, Bokkapuram,
Masinagudi
Nilgiris District-
Pin-643223
Mobile: +91-944-2525003,
91-962-6905665
Deep jungle home resort
Office Address
Door No 1, Bapusa Palya
Bank Avenue, Off Kalyan Nagar,
Bangalore
Resort address
Deep Jungle Home Mollapalli
Village, Mudumalai
Panchayath, Off Thorapalli,
Gudalur
Ph: 080 4123 0008 /
09900087611
THE NESTINN
Singara Road,
Masinagudi - 643 223.
Phone: 0423-2526786
Cell: 09843577133 - Santosh (Manager)
Monarch Safari Park
Bokkapuram, Masinagudi
Tel: 0423 2526250, 2526343
Fax:
0423 2526326
Green Park Resorts
Singara Road,
Masinagudi Nilgiris-
643223
Tel: 0423 2526351 / 09443174641
E-mail:
mahadevan1001@gmail.com
Hotel Tamil Nadu
Tel.: 0423-56249
Chital Walk (Jungle Trail Lodge)
Tel.: 0423-56256
