India has marked its place in the world as the land of Asian tigers as it is the home to over 2,226 wild tigers. We are lucky that we are living in a country that has over half of the world’s tiger population and spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is the dream of every individual. Fortunately, India has numerous tiger reserves and Anamalai Tiger Reserve stands out amongst all as the most famous tiger reserve for this adventure. If you are planning a trip to the Tiger Reserve, read this article for tips and information to make your trip successful.
About Anamalai Tiger Reserve
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The Anamalai Tiger Reserve was officially declared a Tiger Reserve in 2007 and is more famously known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. This is one of the unique national parks in South India which has protected the endemic species of both plants and animals that reside there. A well-known hotspot for biodiversity, this Tiger Reserve lies in the Western Ghats and if you are in luck you can get to see some of the truly endangered species of tigers. Any trip to Tamil Nadu would be considered incomplete without visiting the Tiger Reserve, one of the popular tourist spots near Coimbatore for nature lovers and photographers. Another interesting fact about the tiger reserve is that it is also an anthropological reserve in Tamil Nadu hosting around six different tribal groups.
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Tourist Places Near The Tiger Reserve
This Tiger Reserve, located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala on the southern section of the Annamalai range of hills, is home to other tourist attractions. Here is a list of places to visit near Anamalai Tiger Reserve:
1. Topslip
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Situated at an altitude of 2554 ft, Topslip is an important part of the Tiger Reserve ranges offering an enchanting view of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. This is one of the famous tourist spots in Anamalai Tiger Reserve, quite popular for its wildlife safaris, famous elephant camp, pleasant weather, and beautiful views of Annamalai Hills. One of the most-visited spots for birdwatchers in Tamil Nadu, the reserve is home to several unique teak forests, Bamboo forests, rich exotic species of plants, and wild animals. The nearest town to Topslip is Pollachi in Tamil Nadu from where only two buses ply to Topslip every day at 6 AM and 3 PM.
Location: 70 km away from Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
2. Masani Amman Temple
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Set against the backdrop of the Anamalai Hills, Masani Amman Temple is one of the most sacred temples near Anamalai Tiger Reserve. Situated at the confluence of the Aliyar River and the Uppar stream, the deity goddess of the temple is said to be a protector from ailments and witchcraft. Also known as Mayana Sayani or Masani, Masani Amman is believed to relieve girls of their physical health issues when they attain puberty. Women who wish to bear a child consume Pachilam Marundu, the prasad distributed at the temple, and tie a black thread around their wrists.
Location: 64 km away from Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Timings: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
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3. Aliyar Dam
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If you are looking for a place near Coimbatore to relax in a calming and peaceful environment then Aliyar Dam is the best place near Anamalai Tiger Reserve. This is one of the best picnic spots near Coimbatore, located in the foothills of Valparai, in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats. This is also considered one of the most popular dams in Coimbatore, built across the Aliyar River from 1959 to 1969 mainly for irrigation purposes. This place attracts tourists in large numbers thanks to its well-maintained park, aquarium, mini-themed – Park, and play area where your entire family can enjoy a fun-filled day. You can also enjoy boating in Aliyar Dam waters.
Location: 48 km away from Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
How To Reach
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Anamalai Tiger Reserve, spread about 958 sq. km, is located in the Western Ghats, south of the Palakkad Gap. The place is in the southern section of the Anamalai range of hills linking the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
The easiest way to reach the Tiger Reserve is by taking the train to Coimbatore Railway Station and then a road trip to the Tiger Reserve. The three ways to reach the Anamalai Tiger Reserve are:
By Air
The nearest airport to this Tiger Reserve is Coimbatore International Airport which is about 75 km from the reserve. You can hire a taxi from the Coimbatore airport to this Reserve.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Anamalai Tiger Reserve is at Pollachi and several trains from Palani, Chennai, Palakkad, Tirunelveli, Thiruchendur, and Coimbatore take a halt at this place where you can get off. From Pollachi, you can take a taxi to Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
By Road
The nearest major town to the Tiger Reserve is Pollachi which serves several bus routes to Madurai, Kerala, Dindigul, Palani, and other nearby towns. You can travel by bus to Pollachi and then hire a taxi to the Tiger Reserve. You can also drive your car to Anamalai Tiger Reserve, passing through the lush green landscapes of the Western Ghats.
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Important Information
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The weather of the Tiger Reserve is perfect to visit throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the Reserve is from August to February.
Key Points:
- The park remains open from 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM
- The entry fee for Anamalai Tiger Reserve is Rs 30 per person for adults and Rs 10 per person for children
- A nominal fee of Rs 70 per person is charged for a four-hour trekking trip
- You can book the vehicle and elephant safaris on the spot by paying their rental fee
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Anamalai Tiger Reserve not only provides a natural habitat for our national pride but also offers an excellent opportunity to peek deep into the raw beauty and wonder of nature. As a responsible tourist, we are responsible for protecting and preserving these magnificent creatures’ natural habitats. This tiger reserve is not a place on the map, it plays an important role in connecting us to the wildlife and teaching us the importance of coexistence with nature. So, if you want to embark on a journey to the magic world of wild animals, plan a trip to Tamil Nadu soon.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Anamalai Tiger Reserve
In which district is Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Anamalai Tiger Reserve, earlier known as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected reserve in the Anaimalai Hills of Pollachi and Valparai taluks of Coimbatore District and Udumalaipettai taluk in Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the Anamalai Tiger Reserve famous for?
The Anamalai Sanctuary is situated in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats. This protected reserve in Tamil Nadu is primarily a sanctuary for the preservation of tigers.
How many tigers are there in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
There are over 30-35 tigers in the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu with an occupancy area of about 958 sq. km.
Which tribes are in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Anaimalai is designated as an 'Anthropological Reserve' as it supports 6 tribal groups- Malasar, Malai Malasars, Kadars, Eravallars, Pulayars, and Muduvars.
What animals are in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve?
Some of the animals of the this Tiger Reserve are:
- Jackal
- Wild dog
- Indian fox
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Jungle cat
- Leopard cat
- Smooth-coated otter
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