Introduction to Mudumalai

Madumalai National park is one the many reserves located within the forest belt between the Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Mountains. Most of these reserves are demarcated more by political boundaries than by truly physical ones. In the languages of all the three surrounding states, Madumalai stands for "ancient Hill Range". It located in the Nilgiri district of the southern state of Tamil Nadu. It covers a relatively small area of 300 square kilometers but is equally abundant in wildlife as are the other larger neighbouring reserves.

The temperature varies from season to season but mostly ranges between 10 degrees and 35 degrees centigrade. The ideal time for visiting the park is between March - June and then September - November. The avoidable wet months are mainly between June and August.

The park lies on either side of the excellent highway connecting Mysore to Ooty ( Ootacamund ). This highway, other than providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities even before you reach the park, is an amazingly beautiful drive with 36 hairpin bends through thick jungle and beautiful scenery. If arriving close to sunset or early in the morning, it is advisable to stay on a sharp look out for elephants!

The park's administration center and reception are located at Theppakkadu.

The nearest town to the park is Gudalur (16km)
The nearest Railway Station to the park is Ooty (64km)
The nearest airport to the park is Mysore (97km)