Mathikettan Shola National Park or Mathikettan  National Park is one of the smallest national parks, with an area of just 12.82 square kilometres. This national park is at Poopara village in  Udumbanchola taluk, Idukki district, Kerala state.

The area under the national park is a reserved forest. It is rich in flora and fauna. It became a  national park in 2003.

The word Mathikettan means ‘mind confuser’ in the Tamil Language, an Indian language spoken in the area. One forgets the path once he or she enters the park. Hence, the name Mathikettan National Park. For this reason, seek the help of a guide when going inside the park.

There are different trekking packages available, accompanied by  Forest department-approved guides. There is a bird-watching trekking route in the evening around 4 o’clock. There is a morning trekking tour available, which starts at 6.30 a.m.

Pampadum Shola National Park is another national park close to Mathikettan Shola Park.

An Elephant inside Mathikettan Shola National Park

How Do I Go to Mathikettan Shola National Park?

Mathikettan Shola National Park is accessible from Poopara. Poopara is on the Munnar – Kumily road. Munnar is around 34 kilometres distance. Similarly, Kothamangalam town is around 90 kilometers distance from this national park.

Cochin International Airport and Madurai International Airport are the nearest airports to the National Park at around 123 and 141 kilometers, respectively.

Kottayam railway station is the nearest railway station to the National Park, at around 155 kilometers distance.

The toll-free number of the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department is  1 800 425 4733.

Conclusion

To sum up, Even though Mathikettan Shola National Park is one of the smallest national parks, it is rich in flora and fauna.

Are you going to the park? Please leave your comments below.