Mudumalai National Park & Safari
"Nilgiri Biosphere Wildlife Reserve & Elephant Sanctuary"
Essential Visitor Facts
Verified field facts by local Nilgiri resident for 20263 – 4 Hours
Safari Hours: 06:00 AM – 09:00 AM & 03:00 PM – 06:00 PM
₹350–₹500 per person (Forest bus/jeep safari)
₹30 parking
38 km via Kalhatty Ghats / 46 km via Gudalur
57 km (1 hour 45 mins drive)
06:30 AM or 04:00 PM (Peak animal movement hours)
High during morning safari counter opening
What is Mudumalai National Park & Safari?
Forming part of the UNESCO Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve borders Bandipur in Karnataka and Wayanad in Kerala. Spanning 321 sq km, it shelters Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, Asian elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, and rare avian species.
Historical & Cultural Significance
Established in 1940, Mudumalai is one of South India's oldest wildlife sanctuaries. Theppakadu Elephant Camp inside the sanctuary is Asia's oldest working elephant camp.
Location & Coordinates
11.5620°N, 76.5340°EMudumalai National Park & Safari
Nilgiri Biosphere District, Tamil Nadu, India
What to See & Special Experiences
Forest Department Bus & Open Jeep Safaris through sanctuary trails
Theppakadu Elephant Camp feeding & bath demonstrations
Wild elephant herds, gaurs, chital deer, and peacocks along forest roads
How to Reach & Transport Options
Drive from Ooty via Kalhatty Ghat road (36 hairpin bends, steep downhill) or via Gudalur NH 181 (wider, easier mountain drive).
Buses from Ooty to Gudalur / Mysore stop at Theppakadu
Parking Guide & Avoiding Peak Crowds
Forest Department parking ground available at Theppakadu Eco-Tourism Complex.
Visit during 06:30 AM or 04:00 PM (Peak animal movement hours). Parking lots fill up quickly after 11:00 AM on weekend dates.
What to Carry Checklist
Itineraries Featuring Mudumalai National Park & Safari
Follow our resident-vetted, geographically grouped travel blueprints:
Nearby Attractions on the Same Geographic Loop
Frequently Asked Questions About Mudumalai National Park & Safari
Q. How do I book tickets for Mudumalai Safari?
Safari tickets are issued in person at the Theppakadu Forest Reception Counter on a first-come, first-served basis prior to each safari slot.