Pampadum Shola National Park is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna. It is the smallest national park in Kerala and was declared as such in 2003. Since then, it has been attracting travellers for its lush forests and a variety of wildlife and trekking trails. The name of the park literally translates to the forest where the snake dances.

The ideal time to visit the park is between August-October. It is situated about 35 km from Munnar and is rich in exotic flora with around 22 species of trees, 74 species of herbs and shrubs and 16 species of identified climbers. The important mammals residing in the park include elephant, gaur, leopard, wild boar, sambar deer and common langur. The Nilgiri marten, the only species of marten found in South India, can also be spotted here. Around 14 species of birds, nine species of mammals and 93 species of moths have also been recorded. The best surprise is the variety of butterflies that will surround you. Around 100 species have been recorded at the park. Of these, many are rare like the Parantica nilgiriensis (Nymphalidae), which is listed threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Some notable birds found include the Nilgiri Wood-pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, white-bellied shortwing, etc. An exciting trekking trail takes travellers through the Munnar-Kodaikanal forest road to Vandaravu. If you want to stay in the wild for a day or two, there are log houses situated at Kuttikadu and Neduvarpu.

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