The Mudumalai Sanctuary, located in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, is a popular wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna. Spread over an area of 321 square kilometers, the sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to a variety of endangered and vulnerable species.
The Mudumalai Sanctuary is situated at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. It is nestled between the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The sanctuary is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and several perennial rivers flowing through it.
The Mudumalai Sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the evening. It is closed on Fridays.
The entry fee for the Mudumalai Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreign nationals. Children below the age of 5 are exempt from the entry fee.
The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Some of the animal species found here include tigers, leopards, elephants, bison, deer, and various species of birds. The vegetation includes tropical moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and thorn forests.
Visitors to the Mudumalai Sanctuary can indulge in activities such as jeep safaris, nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for camping and trekking.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Mudumalai Sanctuary vary depending on the duration and route chosen. On average, a 3-hour jeep safari costs around INR 1500 per person.
Children between the ages of 5 to 12 are eligible for a discounted entry fee of INR 25. For male and female visitors above 12 years of age, the entry fee is INR 50. Senior citizens above the age of 60 can avail of a discounted entry fee of INR 25.
The Mudumalai Sanctuary provides special facilities for senior citizens, such as designated seating areas, wheelchair access, and assistance from staff members during safaris and walks.
The best time to visit the Mudumalai Sanctuary is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is more active. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall.
Some of the nearby places to visit from the Mudumalai Sanctuary include Ooty, Coonoor, Bandipur National Park, and Masinagudi. These destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences.
The Mudumalai Sanctuary has designated parking areas for visitors. A separate parking fee may be applicable depending on the type of vehicle and duration of stay.
Visitors to the Mudumalai Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the sanctity of the natural environment. Some of the key rules include maintaining silence during safaris, not feeding or disturbing animals, and not littering in the sanctuary.
The nearest airport to the Mudumalai Sanctuary is Coimbatore International Airport, located approximately 160 kilometers away. The sanctuary is well-connected by road, and regular buses and taxis are available from nearby towns like Ooty and Mysore. Accommodation options near the sanctuary range from budget homestays to luxury resorts.