Sitting above 2,000 m near the Kerala border, Mukurthi National Park protects one of the last strongholds of the Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat found only in the Western Ghats, and access is limited to permitted trekking rather than vehicle safaris, keeping the park’s rolling grasslands largely undisturbed. Mukurthi sits at an elevation of 2466 m and is typically explored in about half day. The most favourable months to visit are April, March, February, and December, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Upper Bhavani Dam, Mukurthi Peak, and Nilgiri Tahr Viewpoint. Other notable highlights include nilgiri tahr herds on rolling grassland slopes, shola forest walks with mossy, gnarled trees, and pykara River headwaters and tiny waterfalls. It falls within Ooty, Nilgiris district, and Tamil Nadu, India.
State: Tamil Nadu
Ideal Duration: Half Day
April, March, February, December
The park is not wheelchair-friendly, and the main trek to the peak involves a steep 4-5 km climb over rocky, uneven terrain at high altitude (over 7,000 feet), which can be tiring. However, the forest department offers a shorter, easier jeep safari route to the Mukurthi Dam and the grasslands, which is suitable for seniors if they are comfortable with bumpy rides. It is advisable to consult your doctor about altitude effects, and carry your own medications and oxygen if needed.
The ideal time is between February and May, when the weather is dry and pleasant, with clear skies for viewing the shola grasslands and the Nilgiri tahr. Avoid the monsoon months (June to September) due to heavy rain, leeches, and slippery trails, and the winter months (December to January) can bring frost and dense mist.
The star attraction is the endangered Nilgiri tahr, which is often spotted grazing on the grassy slopes, especially in the early morning. You may also see sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, and occasional leopards, but sightings are never guaranteed due to the park’s vast, open terrain. Birdwatchers can look for the Nilgiri pipit, woodcock, and black-and-orange flycatcher, but patience and quiet are essential.
Yes, a permit is mandatory, and it must be obtained in advance from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department office in Ooty or online through the official eco-tourism portal. The permit is issued for a specific date and time, and you must carry a valid photo ID for all visitors. The number of daily visitors is capped, so booking at least a week ahead is recommended, especially on weekends.
Carry warm clothing (including a windproof jacket), a rain poncho, sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle (at least 2 litres per person). Pack high-energy snacks, a torch, a basic first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone with a power bank, as there is no network coverage inside the park. Do not carry plastic bags, single-use plastics, or any food that could attract animals, as the park is a strict eco-sensitive zone.