The unique flora and fauna of Munnar hills and forests!

When you think of lush ranches, vibrant foliage, and the smell of raw mud, nothing parallels the worth of Kerala. Munnar is one of the gorgeous places in Kerala that offers diverse flora and fauna to visitors around. The hills and forests of Munnar are home to a wide range of species. And to witness the immense beauty, visitors can unlock the top resorts in Munnar and have a go-around to the wild surrounds. Here, we will explore the unique flora and fauna of Munnar and their significance prior to your journey.

Elaborating on the diverse flaura and fauna of Munnar

Flora

Native plants

Munnar has many intrinsic plant species, confined to the region. One of them is the famous Neelakurinji, a blue flower that blooms once every 12 years. Another endemic plant species is the Strobilanthes kunthianus, a shrub that blooms once in 18 years. These plants are noteworthy not just for their rarity but also for their ecological essence.

Medicinal plants

Munnar also marks a place that harbours some of the finest medicinal plants used in traditional medicine for centuries. These plants are famous for their potent therapeutic properties. And due to this, they are increasingly being studied for their use in modern medicine. If you want to add some research flavour to your break, try to identify the places these medicinal plants are born.

Tea Plantations

The tea plantations in Munnar are a major attraction for tourists who visit the region. The tea produced in Munnar is known for its distinctive flavour, making it a famous choice among tea connoisseurs. The tea bushes not only add to the scenic beauty of the region but also contribute to the local economy.

Forest types

Munnar’s forests are categorised into three types – tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and shola forests. Each forest type has a distinctive mix of flora, adding to the biodiversity of the region. The shola forests in Munnar are a unique ecosystem home to several rare and endangered species.

Fauna

Endemic species 

Munnar has several rare animal species found only in this region. These include the Nilgiri marten, Nilgiri langur, and the Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat found in large numbers in the Eravikulam National Park. Other exotic species include the Indian giant squirrel, the grizzled giant squirrel, the Bengal tiger, and the Indian leopard. 

Birds

Munnar is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds. The Nilgiri wood pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, and the Malabar whistling thrush are some of the bird varieties. Birdwatching tours are exciting, and many 5 star resorts in Munnar welcome the program to their activity list.

Reptiles

Munnar is also an abode to many species of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. The Indian rock python and the king cobra mark the snakes found in the Munnar forest. Visitors can explore the reptilian diversity of Munnar by taking guided tours or treks into the forests. 

Elephants

The forests of Munnar are also home to a large population of Asian elephants. These majestic creatures are a sight to behold as they move through the forests in herds. Elephant safaris and guided tours are popular activities in Munnar, allowing visitors to notice the gentle giants up close in their natural habitat.

Conservation Efforts

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park in Munnar is a protected area home to several endemic species. The park has been instrumental in conserving the Nilgiri tahr, which was on the brink of extinction at one point. Visitors to the park can take guided tours to witness the stunning landscapes, unique ecosystem, and diverse wildlife.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Munnar has several wildlife sanctuaries – the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are noteworthy habitats for several species of animals and birds and are vital to their survival. These sanctuaries offer visitors the opportunity to explore the region’s biodiversity and learn about conservation efforts.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism practices have been implemented in Munnar to ensure that tourism does not harm the environment or the local communities. These practices include responsible waste management, promoting eco-friendly transport options, and supporting local businesses. 

Summing Up

In conclusion, Munnar’s hills and forests are a treasure trove of unique flora and fauna. The region’s rich biodiversity is not just significant from an ecological standpoint but also contributes to the local economy and tourism industry. It is imperative that we continue to conserve and protect this precious ecosystem for future generations to enjoy. So with a delay, pre-book the best family resorts in Munnar, and visit the wide flaura and fauna culture of the land.