Introduction

Rajamala is a lovely green paradise high up in the hills, home to the rare mountain goat ‘Nilgiri Tahr’. A part of the Eravikulam National Park, Rajamala is a 15-kilometer (9 miles) drive from Munnar. Anaimudi, the highest peak in South India at a height of 2695 meters (8983 feet) lies in the Eravikulam National Park. Interestingly, half the world population of the rare Nilgiri Tahr is concentrated in this region. The sanctuary is a steep hike up a winding trail where you could spot small herds of this exotic mountain goat grazing with gay abandon. As you trudge up, you will notice streaks of cloud float past you. The vegetation also grows closer and closer. Along the way, pause for a while to catch your breath and take some wonderful pictures. Other than Tahrs, Rajamala is also home to elephants, leopards, sambars, langurs, tigers, Malabar civets, barking deer and pythons.

A wildlife safari into Rajamala is a great opportunity to come up close with the timorous Tahrs and observe their habits and habitats. It is estimated that the total population of the rare Nilgiri Tahrs to be over 1300. Since Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary happens to be a chunk of Eravikulam National Park, the visitors are not permitted to explore the entire park.

Watch these endangered species in their natural habitat, behold the breathtaking mountain scenery, and look-out for exotic flora unique to the region. This tour definitely takes some bit of walking, so you are advised to put on your walking shoes and carry a bottle of drinking water. Rajamala is a unique wildlife experience offering endless photo opportunities, not to mention a great chance to commune with nature.

Visitors are not allowed inside the park in monsoons. Before beginning your wildlife exploration, you need to buy entry passes from the permitting authority, Wildlife DFO Munnar.

Special Attributes

Half the world population of the rare Nilgiri Tahr is found in Rajamala.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

None, wear anything you are comfortable in. Since the temperature ranges from 0 to 30 degrees, it is advisable to carry some woolens and rain gear on your trip to Munnar and surrounds. Don’t forget your walking shoes as it is craggy terrain.

Connectivity

Local transport available in Munnar includes taxis, auto-rickshaws, bicycles and buses. There are frequent buses run by the State Transport Corporation. Hired bicycles are also a great way to explore this green hill station.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers

Exposure

The temperature drops as you proceed further upwards. The sun is mostly bleak and you will be walking through fleeting mist. So, it is advisable to wrap yourself in thick woolens, and wear walking shoes.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August

Facilities

A great opportunity to get up close with the rare Nilgiri Tahr.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Tread carefully in the jungle so that you don’t disturb the growth of saplings. Make sure you photograph the goats from a distance and not scare them off. Keep your tone low; listen, watch and simply soak up.

Type of site

Wildlife Sanctuary