Anamudi Shola National Park

Anamudi Shola National Park is a protected area in India.

Anamudi Shola National Park at a Glance

Location
Western Ghats & Deccan Plateau, India, South Asia
Coordinates
10.202388, 77.194040
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry months) for tiger safaris and wildlife.

Getting to Anamudi Shola National Park

Nearest airport: NCC Airstrip, 76 km away.

Nearest international airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), 87 km away.

Big Five in Anamudi Shola National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Leopard.

Weather & Climate in Anamudi Shola National Park

The warmest temperatures in Anamudi Shola National Park occur in April, averaging 18.8°C (up to 24.2°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 15.4°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 25.9mm. Average humidity: 72.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 15.4°C (rainfall: 131.2mm)
  • February: 16.2°C (rainfall: 25.9mm)
  • March: 17.6°C (rainfall: 35.6mm)
  • April: 18.8°C (rainfall: 99.5mm)
  • May: 18.8°C (rainfall: 224.5mm)
  • June: 17.7°C (rainfall: 185.4mm)
  • July: 17.2°C (rainfall: 278.4mm)
  • August: 17.4°C (rainfall: 307.5mm)
  • September: 17.3°C (rainfall: 190.6mm)
  • October: 17.0°C (rainfall: 308.9mm)
  • November: 16.3°C (rainfall: 239.4mm)
  • December: 15.8°C (rainfall: 191.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Anamudi Shola National Park

The best months to visit Anamudi Shola National Park are March, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 15.41°C, rainfall 131.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 16.16°C, rainfall 25.9mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 72%
  • March: Great, temperature 17.62°C, rainfall 35.6mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 66.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.84°C, rainfall 99.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 70.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 18.83°C, rainfall 224.5mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 81%
  • June: Poor, temperature 17.69°C, rainfall 185.4mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 86.5%
  • July: Poor, temperature 17.24°C, rainfall 278.4mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 89.5%
  • August: Poor, temperature 17.35°C, rainfall 307.5mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 87.3%
  • September: Poor, temperature 17.29°C, rainfall 190.6mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 86.5%
  • October: Poor, temperature 16.99°C, rainfall 308.9mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 87.6%
  • November: Poor, temperature 16.34°C, rainfall 239.4mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 89.7%
  • December: Poor, temperature 15.75°C, rainfall 191.5mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 87.8%

Wildlife in Anamudi Shola National Park

Home to 74 recorded species including 22 waterbirds, 22 birds of prey, 18 iconic birds, 7 tropical birds, 2 big herbivores, 2 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Anamudi Shola National Park

Based on average temperature of 17.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 82%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 17°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Anamudi Shola National Park

4 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Western Ghats & Deccan Plateau

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

Anamudi Shola National Park FAQs

What unique flora and fauna can I expect to discover within Anamudi Shola National Park's shola forests?

Anamudi Shola National Park is renowned for its unique shola-grassland ecosystem, harboring species like the endangered Nilgiri tahr and the elusive lion-tailed macaque. Visitors might also spot Indian elephants, gaur, and a variety of endemic birds such as the Nilgiri wood pigeon, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

When is the most favorable time to plan a visit to Anamudi Shola National Park for optimal wildlife viewing and trekking conditions?

The ideal period to visit Anamudi Shola National Park is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry, offering clear skies and comfortable trekking. This post-monsoon and winter season also enhances the chances of spotting wildlife as they are more active.

What kind of visitor activities or safari experiences are available at Anamudi Shola National Park, and how does its low crowding level enhance the visit?

Unlike traditional jeep safari parks, Anamudi Shola National Park primarily offers guided trekking and nature walks through its unique shola forests and grasslands, focusing on birdwatching and ecological exploration. Its exceptionally low crowding level ensures a serene, intimate encounter with nature, allowing for undisturbed wildlife observation and a peaceful experience.

What are the typical entry requirements and costs for Anamudi Shola National Park, and how should I arrange my visit?

Entry to Anamudi Shola National Park usually requires permits, which can often be arranged through the Kerala Forest Department or local eco-tourism initiatives. While specific fees vary, expect charges for entry and potentially for mandatory guides, which are highly recommended for navigating the terrain and enhancing your wildlife spotting opportunities.

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, what specific safety precautions should I consider when exploring Anamudi Shola National Park's shola forest environment?

When trekking in Anamudi Shola National Park, be prepared for potentially slippery trails, especially after rainfall, and wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. It's advisable to carry insect repellent to guard against leeches, particularly during the post-monsoon season, and always follow your guide's instructions regarding encounters with wild animals like elephants or gaur.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.