In the luxuriantly forested foothills of the
Nilgiris,this 321 sq km sanctuary is part of a much larger reserve (3000
sq km) which includes Bandipur and Wynad in neighbouring Karnataka and
Kerala. The larger reserve range in vegetation from semi-evergreen
forests to swamps and grasslands. In Mudumalai, the mostly dense forest
is home to chital (spotted deer), gaur ( Indian bison), tiger, panther,
wild boar and sloth bear. Otters and crocodiles inhabit the Moyar
River. The Park's wild elephant population, one of the largest in the
country, supposedly numbers about 600, however you're more likely to see
their domesticated brethren carrying out logging duties.
The best time to visit Mudumalai is between February
and June. Heavy rain is common in October and November and the park may
be closed during the dry season. From February to March.