Annamalai Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Annamalai mountain range of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu. It is situated 38 km from Pollachi and 76 km from Coimbatore. The reserve is one of the popular tiger reserves in India and is a must-include destination in Pollachi Tour Packages.
History and Renaming
Originally known as Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, it was notified in 1974 and established in 1976. In honor of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1961, the sanctuary was renamed Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park (IGWLS&NP). In 2007, it was designated as Annamalai Tiger Reserve, with an area of 958.59 sq. km, which includes the previous IGWLS&NP.
Reserve Area and Boundaries
The total area of Annamalai Tiger Reserve is 1479.87 sq. km, which includes a core area of 958.59 sq. km and a buffer zone of 521.28 sq. km. The reserve is bordered by the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. It spans four revenue taluks: Pollachi, Valparai, Udumalpet, and Kodaikanal.
Wildlife and Flora
Annamalai Tiger Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Some of the species found here include panthers, elephants, tigers, civets, sloth bears, wild dogs, and porcupines. The sanctuary is also home to various birds such as the red treepie, spotted dove, and black-headed oriole. The reserve houses a natural reservoir, the Amaravati Reservoir, which is home to crocodiles. Key attractions include Karianshola Trek, Anaikunthi Shola, Grass Hills, Manjampatti Valley, and several waterfalls and groves.
Entry Gates and Safari Options
The best gateway to the sanctuary is Topslip, located about 30 km from Pollachi. Other entry points include Amaravathi, Sethumadai, and Valparai. Visitors can enjoy Elephant Safari and Van services at Topslip. Private vehicles are not allowed for safaris, and the Tourism Department offers guided trekking tours on routes such as Kolambumalai, Ambuli watchtower, and Kozhikammuthy.
Elephant Camp at Topslip
Topslip also hosts an elephant camp called Kozhikamuthi, home to trained elephants (kumki elephants). Visitors can witness feeding times and participate in conservation efforts. World Elephant Day is celebrated in August at Topslip with various events such as drawing, public speaking, and essay writing contests for tribal students.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Annamalai Tiger Reserve is during the winter months, when the weather is cool and pleasant, offering the best opportunity to spot wildlife. It is advised to avoid visiting during the monsoon (June-August) as the forest becomes muddy and slippery, or in the summer due to the hot and humid conditions.
Park Timings
- Park Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Forest Timings: 7 AM to 4 PM
- Safari Timings:
- Elephant Safari: 11 AM – 2 PM
- Jeep Safari: 7 AM – 10 AM and 3 PM – 5 PM
- Trekking: 7 AM – 2 PM
Entry Fees
- Person: Rs. 80
- Camera: Rs. 50
- Jeep Safari (8-Pax): Rs. 2000
- Elephant Safari: Rs. 200
- Trekking Fees: Rs. 200 – Rs. 1000
Important Notes
- The above charges apply to Indian nationals. Different charges apply to foreign nationals.
- Fees are approximate as of December 2020.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where is Annamalai Tiger Reserve located?
- A) Coimbatore
- B) Pollachi
- C) Chennai
- D) Ooty
Answer: B) Pollachi
- What was the original name of Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Indira Gandhi National Park
- B) Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
- C) Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
- D) Eravikulam National Park
Answer: B) Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
- Which of the following is NOT a wildlife species found in Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Panther
- B) Tiger
- C) Polar Bear
- D) Elephant
Answer: C) Polar Bear
- What is the best gateway for visitors to reach Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Valparai
- B) Amaravathi
- C) Topslip
- D) Pollachi
Answer: C) Topslip
- When is the best time to visit Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Summer
- B) Winter
- C) Monsoon
- D) Spring
Answer: B) Winter
- What is the fee for an Elephant Safari in Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Rs. 500
- B) Rs. 200
- C) Rs. 1000
- D) Rs. 150
Answer: B) Rs. 200
- Which of these trekking routes is available in Annamalai Tiger Reserve?
- A) Kolambumalai
- B) Kozhikammuthy
- C) Karian Shola
- D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above