The park's flagship species is the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), with approximately 200 individuals residing in the park. Other significant mammals include the tiger, leopard, elephant, and gaur, though these are less frequently spotted. The park is also home to smaller mammals like the Nilgiri marten, jungle cat, and small Indian civet. The avifauna includes several endemic birds such as the Nilgiri pipit, black-and-orange flycatcher, and Nilgiri wood pigeon. Various species of reptiles and amphibians, many of them endemic to the Western Ghats, can also be found within the park.
Mukurthi's vegetation is dominated by montane grasslands and shola forests, creating a unique mosaic pattern characteristic of the Western Ghats' high altitudes. The shola forests contain several endemic species including Rhododendron nilagiricum, Mahonia nepalensis, and various species of Strobilanthes. The grasslands feature numerous species of grass including Chrysopogon zeylanicus and Andropogon polyptychus. The park also harbors several rare orchid species and medicinal plants. The vegetation pattern is highly adapted to the local climate and plays a crucial role in maintaining the region's water resources.
The park's terrain is characterized by rolling hills and steep escarpments formed during the Precambrian era, approximately 2.5 billion years ago. The landscape consists primarily of grassland interspersed with patches of stunted tropical montane forest, locally known as sholas. The park's elevation ranges from 2,200 to 2,554 meters above sea level, with Mukurthi Peak being one of the highest points. The soil is typically thin and acidic, formed from ancient crystalline rocks and gneisses, which contributes to the unique vegetation patterns observed in the region.
Mukurthi National Park was established in 1990 to protect the Nilgiri Tahr, though its historical significance dates back much further. The area was originally part of the hunting grounds of the British colonial administration and local aristocracy. Prior to that, it was traditionally used by indigenous communities like the Todas for grazing. The park was carved out of the Nilgiri State Forest and was declared a protected area following growing concerns about the declining Nilgiri Tahr population. The name 'Mukurthi' comes from a prominent peak in the park that resembles a face ('mukur' meaning nose or face in Tamil).
The park's most distinctive feature is Mukurthi Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The pristine Silent Valley can be viewed from various vantage points within the park. Several pristine streams and waterfalls dot the landscape, including the origins of the Bhavani River. The park contains numerous trekking trails, though access is restricted and requires special permission. The unique shola-grassland ecosystem, one of the last remaining pristine examples of this habitat type, makes the park particularly significant for conservation. The park also plays a crucial role in protecting the watershed of several important rivers in Tamil Nadu.
Mukurthi National Park experiences a unique montane climate characterized by cool temperatures throughout the year. The region receives both southwest and northeast monsoons, with annual rainfall averaging 2,500mm. Winter temperatures can drop to near freezing (0-5°C) between December and February, while summer temperatures remain pleasant at 15-20°C from March to May. The park often experiences misty conditions and high humidity, with frequent frost during winter months. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and occasional heavy rainfall, particularly during the monsoon seasons from June to September.
India
11.4330°, 76.5170°
1990
78.46
Mukurthi National Park is located in the high altitudes of the Nilgiri Hills. The park is characterized by rolling grasslands and shola forests. It is one of the last remaining habitats of the Nilgiri tahr and contains numerous endemic plant species.