Annamalai

Annamalai National Park is situated at Palachi, between Palani and Coimbatore. The park which is also known as as the Indira Gandhi National park covers an area of about 117.10 sq kms and was established in the year 1976. The wildlife found here consists of the Elephant, Gaur (Indian bison), Tiger, Panther, Nilgiri Langur, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Chital (Spotted deer), Sambar, Mouse Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Dog and Nilgiri Tahr.

The Avifauna includes Pied hornbill, Red Whiskered Bulbul, Black-headed Oriole and Drongo. There are also a large number of crocodiles in the Amravathi reservoir. The vegetation found in this region is rich mixed deciduous forest, tropical wet evergreen and tropical moist deciduous, The main species of Flora includes Rosewood and Teak. Looking at the ulandy range from a distance one can only wonder at nature’s extraordinary generosity in crafting these forests an the eastern sloopes of the western Ghat closer and you can see the leaves rustling in the wind. The rustling arouses myriad birds which begin to call in varying pitches their soft calls wafting gently over the valleys.

The quaintly-named Elephant Song Nature Tail from Anappadi to Karian Shola and back and the Bison Tail from Anappadi to Seechali are soft treks that last about two hours ( Tariff Rs 100 for 5 plus guide ) the Kannimara Trail from Anappadi to Kannimara Teak via Thoonakkadavu and the inspirationally named Flying Hooves

Kolokamuthi Elephant Camp

About 7km out of top slip, past Mt Stuart Block, this camp is home to nearly 50 Malasar tribal families. The malasar are expert elephant handlers. Entry is by forest. Jeep only. Contact the wildlife warden, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. 365 / 1. meenkarai road. Pollachi. Coimbatore District.

Phone No : 04259 – 225256. Entry fee. Rs 25.

Varagaliar Elephant Camp

Home to pachyderms. This camp for domesticated elephants is 24 km deep on the fringes Of the core area of the forest. The creatures are used in conflicts between man and elephant in the nearby Valparai Plateau where intrusions by elephant into tea gardens are becoming a frequent affair. Generally out of bounds for regular tourists, the enthusiast can take a chance by seeking special permission from the Deputy Conservator of Forests, pollachi to get here. Get a ride in the forest jeep ( Rs 25 per person ) as you cannot take your own vehicle into the main forest.

Parambikkulam and Thoonakkadavu

Continuing down the forested road from the top slip Reception Centre you’ll arrive at the Anappadi Checkpost which marks you entry fee here. Where there’s a dam, there’s a backwater. In this case all of 8 sq km. it’s great fun watching otters slip in and out of the waters. Don’t make the mistake of sitting on funny – shaped logs, which are probably crocodiles lying in typical regal crocodilian lethargy.

Take the forest jeep at Rs 25 per head to explore the region. The drive up to the Parambikkulam Dam will leave you spellbound. There are spectacular views to be had of the Sungam Range and the Nelliapadi Mountains as you look towards Thoonakkadavu and the Karimalai, Kalyanathy and Vaidi mountains beyond the Parambiar Valley.

Trekking

The quaintly-named Elephant Song Nature Tail from Anappadi to Karian Shola and back and the Bison Tail from Anappadi to Seechali are soft treks that last about two hours ( Tariff Rs 100 for 5 plus guide ) the Kannimara Trail from Anappadi to Kannimara Teak via Thoonakkadavu and the inspirationally named Flying Hooves Nature Trail are mediam treks that ake half a day ( Tariff – Rs150 for 5 plus a guide ) those two guided treks cost Rs 200 for 5. for nature walks and treks, contact the Reception Centre at top slip. Centre timings: 6am to 6pm.

Where to Stay And Eat

Banyan Tree ( Bangalore )

Phone No : 080 – 5730457.

Tariff : 3800.