Mathikettan Shola National Park
'Mathikettan' - the name of the park, is derived from Tamil directly translating to 'mind confuser.' This is credited to the belief that one may lose their way once one enters the forest.
Considering the unique nature of the shola forest in Mathikettan and its importance as an elephant strip, the state government declared it a National park in 2008. The park falls in Udumbanchola Taluk of Pooppara Village with an extent of 12.82 sq km. One of the shola parks in Idukki, the place is considered to be the abode of several endemic species of flora and fauna.
Three streams namely Uchillkuthi Puzha, Mathikettan Puzha, and Njandar the tributaries of Panniyar, originate from the hill ranges of Mathikettan. The highest point inside the park is Kattumala is located on the eastern border of the park adjoining Tamil Nadu.
The undulating terrain that sometimes climbs up to large hillocks of varying heights, Mathikettan Shola houses evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, shola grasslands, and semi-evergreens. Take a look at the rich variety of animal life in gaur, wild boar, sambar, common langur, wild dog, and jungle cat. The National Park is a biodiversity hotspot with its rich treasure of medicinal herbs as well.
A Muthavan tribal colony at Aduvilanthankudy is situated on the northeastern borders of Mathikettan Shola.
Adventure Activities & Animal Spotting in the Forest
This park is highly appropriate for trekkers and ones who seek adventure due to its undulating terrain multiple paths, and the possibility of losing your way in the forest. It also is an excellent place for wildlife photographers as many animals can be spotted easily.
It is a guaranteed adventure trip with winding paths, tall trees, and a varied array of wild animals. Not only do people lose their way through the forest, but it has also been noted that even elephants that wander in the forest from another lose their way and tend to get stuck there. The promise of a true adventure is what makes this park a must-visit, and it certainly deserves a spot in every traveler's itinerary.
