Eravikulam National Park Munnar: 2026 Closure for Calving

MUNNAR 19 January 2026. The breeding season for the Nilgiri Tahr has officially commenced at Rajamala in Munnar. This region serves as a vital sanctuary for the rare species within Eravikulam National Park Munnar. Recently, forest officials discovered more than five newborn kids in the Rajamala tourism zone already this season. Interestingly, births began during the first week of January this year. This arrival is much earlier than last year. In 2025, newborn kids were not spotted until January 14. This early biological shift highlights the park’s role as a “legacy in transition.”

To protect these fragile newborns, the park will close to all visitors from February 1 to March 31, 2026. Consequently, this period is a necessary pause for the mountain to breathe.

The Endangered Nilgiri Tahr Species

The Nilgiri Tahr is a highly endangered mountain goat found only in the Western Ghats. It is the only mountain ungulate in tropical India. Currently, there are only about 2,668 of these animals left in the entire country. Kerala is home to 1,365 of them, while Tamil Nadu has 1,303. They live on steep cliffs to stay safe from predators. Because they are rare, they have the highest legal protection in India. These animals represent a “witness to history” in the high grasslands. However, they face many threats like habitat loss and climate change. Protecting this small population is vital for the survival of the species.

Facts About Eravikulam National Park Munnar

Eravikulam National Park Munnar is widely considered the best national park in India for conservation excellence. It recently scored 92.97% in a national government evaluation. This is the highest score given to any park in the country. The park is home to 841 Nilgiri Tahrs. This is the largest single population in the world. It was established specifically to save this endangered species from extinction. The park uses “human instinct” and careful forest management to keep the animals safe. Furthermore, it serves as an emotional bridge between nature and the local people. It is a “sanctuary of continuity” that guards the highest peaks.

Why the Sanctuary is Closing

The park closes every year to provide a quiet nursery for the mother goats. Nilgiri Tahr babies are very fragile. They can die from stress caused by loud noises. If humans are nearby, the mothers might abandon their young in fear. Therefore, closing the park removes all human pressure during this sensitive time. This “Silent Resistance” allows the newborns to bond with their mothers. It also prevents the soil from getting too hard from tourist crowds. Consequently, the closure has a direct positive impact on the birth success rate. This “small batch” philosophy proves that life is more important than tourism.

In conclusion, the Nilgiri Tahr is a keystone species for the mountain ecosystem. They act as natural gardeners by grazing on grass and dispersing seeds. This activity helps other rare plants and animals to thrive. We must praise the effort of Eravikulam National Park Munnar in protecting this rare animal. Their dedication ensures that the hills remain wild and beautiful. The park is a true guardian of the city’s identity. By protecting the Tahr, they are protecting the heart of the Western Ghats for the future