The things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve grace the lush, folding hills of the Western Ghats, housing a sanctuary of beautiful diversity. A critical home for many flora and fauna, both standard and endangered, in its folds lay sanctified many a royal beast called the Bengal tiger. Covering more than 1,400 square kilometres, this area spans both the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and, in a larger perspective, houses numerous species of wildlife right at the heart. It was earlier named the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. Well-known for its deep woods, rolling hillocks, and tranquil rivers, it attracts travellers with its beautiful landscape and the richness of flora and fauna species harboured within. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve is a treasure for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts of the Indian subcontinent. It features exciting safaris, treks guided by experts, quiet boat rides, and bird-watching excursions.
Anamalai Tiger Reserve: Pride Of The Western Ghats
Image Credit: UdayKiran28 for Wikipedia Commons
Anamalai Tiger Reserve, situated in the southern part of the Western Ghats, testifies to India’s rich biodiversity and its commitment to wildlife and nature conservation. Spreading through the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, many great species inhabit this wild abode, the most notable of which is the majestic Bengal tiger.
The reserve, previously known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, covers over 1,400 square kilometres of land with an undulating formation of thick forests, grasslands, and water bodies. Experiences that would remain etched in the minds of any nature-loving person and wildlife photographer, these things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve are an experience full of adventure and peaceful beauty.
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Top Attractions And Things To Do In Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Here are the top activities and attractions you can’t miss while exploring this tiger reserve.
1. Topslip
Image Credit: Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons
Topslip is a preferable entry and attraction point for visitors to Anamalai Tiger Reserve. The scenic beauty is set in a tranquil environment, which serves very well as a base for exploring the reserve. Guided Treks, Elephant Safaris, and Bird Watching make the environs ideal for nature lovers.
Due to its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, the place offers various activities—trekking with guides, elephant safaris, and bird watching, which travellers can do. Wild animals, such as elephants and gaur, and diverse bird species exist. With many facilities such as rest houses and guides with sufficient information, Topslip can be experienced with a lot of comfort and immersion, and anybody visiting and exploring things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve should not miss it.
Location: 37 km from Pollachi
Timings: 06-00 am to 06-00 pm
Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults, INR 20 for children
2. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Parambikulam for Wikimedia Commons
The parabular wildlife sanctuary is nestled beside activities in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. It houses various flora and fauna, including elephants, other common leopards, and tigers.
In addition to wildlife, this place has the epitome of hosting the world’s oldest teak tree, Kannimara. Tourist activities at this place include trekking, bamboo rafting, and wildlife safaris.
Location: Palakkad District, Kerala
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 150 for adults, INR 65 for children
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3. Anamalai Hills
Image Credit: Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons
Popularly known as the Elephant Mountains, Anamalai Hills provide one of the most charming landscapes to surmount. The Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is a good place for trekkers, with several tracks and paths bringing you across these ranges of lush green forests and stunning views of fauna in its natural habitat.
The Anamalai Hills are also spread across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They are a magnificent attraction due to their scenic beauty and biodiversity. Trekkers can set out through dense forests to pleasing panoramic views. Elephants and rare birds can be seen as a pride harbour for some rare wild species.
Location: Across Tamil Nadu and Kerala
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Entry Fee: Depends on the activity
4. Valparai
Image Credit: Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons
Valparai is a beautiful hill station located in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. It is famous for the surrounding tea estates and an agreeable climate. This hill town provides scenic views of lush green forests and the Nilgiri Tahr population, an endangered ornamental goat species.
Valparai, a sleepy little hill station in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, is nestled within the things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve. In addition to its tea plantations, cool temperatures, and jubilant scenic beauty, it provides a placid retreat amidst a verdant atmosphere. It is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for quiet in the Western Ghats.
Location: Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Entry Fee: Depends on the activity
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5. Aliyar Dam
Image Credit: Nadinviki for Wikimedia Commons
Located near Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Aliyar Dam is a picturesque place by the foot of the hills. It is a beautiful place to have a small picnic and offers lovely views of the hills.
The dam offers some water sports and boating activities, making it ideal for families and adventure enthusiasts. This is one of the top things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
Location: Aliyar, Tamil Nadu
Timings: a.m. – 6:00 p.
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
6. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: P Jeganathan for Wikimedia Commons
Biodiversity Sanctuary: Forming a division of things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve, the place has various flora and fauna to see, such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and varieties of many bird species. The sanctuary offers visits in the form of guided tours, nature walks, and even jeep safaris.
The Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, and is one of the best things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve. It has varied flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and rare bird species. Visitors can access these through guided tours or jeep safaris and witness nature’s pristine beauty in the Western Ghats.
Location: Pollachi, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6: 00 AM – 6: 00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 30 for adults, INR 10 for children
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The things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve are an equally perfect combination of adventure, serenity, and beauty of nature. Everything fits a traveller’s choice, from nail-biting safaris to calm hill stations. So come, flee into the wild best suited to nature and plan for the Anamalai Tiger Reserve holiday to remember. Located in Anamalai, it is a haven for wildlife in general and all those humans craving a reunion with nature. Its terrain varies from thick jungles to undulating hills, making the reserve more of a depository for all sorts of activities and views. Whether you are an avid bird-watcher, trekking enthusiast, or someone who wants to relax in the lap of nature, this reserve has everything to provide. Its rich biodiversity with the majestic royal Bengal tiger also makes this adventure come alive with every visit on a trip to Coimbatore.
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Cover Image Credit: PP Yoonus for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Anamalai Tiger Reserve
What is the best time to visit the Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Best time to visit the Tiger Reserve is from November to March when one can find good weather and more chances to have a glimpse of the wildlife.
Are there accommodations available within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Yes, there are multiple accommodations within, including those of several forest rest houses, lodges, and private resorts.
Do large numbers of tigers accommodate easily in Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Barring the inborn reclusive nature of the tigers, the answer is in the negative since Anamalai Tiger Reserve is a home to different wildlife. One could have a feast watching elephants and leopards in reserve and have excellent bird watching since a large number of bird species add to the spectacular view of the place.
What can visitors inside Anamalai Tiger Reserve do?
Visitors can enjoy treks under guidance, elephant safari, bird watching, wildlife safari, and nature walks which is one of the top things to do in Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
Is an entry fee charged for Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
There is an entry fee to visit the reserve which depends on the area and activities. In general, the entry fee is between INR 30 to INR 150.
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