Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park)

Rajamalai is the tourism zone of Eravikulam National Park, located in the Western Ghats near Munnar. Established as Kerala's first national park in 1978, it is renowned for hosting the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park features rolling grasslands, shola forests, and offers views of Anamudi, South India's highest peak. It is also famous for the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every twelve years.

Visitors can expect a guided experience starting with a shuttle bus ride from the base station to the Rajamalai tourism zone. Upon arrival, visitors walk along paved trails through high-altitude grasslands and shola forests. The primary attraction is spotting the Nilgiri Tahr in their natural habitat. The area offers panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and misty valleys. Facilities include restrooms and shelters at the top. Private vehicles are not allowed inside the park.

The area was originally the hunting grounds of the British during colonial times. The Government of Kerala took over the area in 1971, declared it a sanctuary in 1975, and upgraded it to a national park in 1978 to protect the Nilgiri Tahr.

The park is culturally significant for the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every twelve years, covering the hills in blue. It is a vital conservation site for the endemic Nilgiri Tahr.