Silent Valley National Park 2024 – Timings, Entry Fees, Things to Do, How to Reach

Silent Valley National Park, located in the heart of the Nilgiri Hills in Kerala, India, attracts visitors with its unforgettable natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. This ecological marvel, with a core area of 89.52 square kilometres, is a haven for both biodiversity enthusiasts and nature lovers. Silent Valley is renowned for its rich history, having been explored by botanist Robert Wight in 1847, and for being the epicenter of the Save Silent Valley movement in the 1970s. The park is open every day, except Fridays, and extends a warm welcome to visitors from 6:45 a.m. to 2:34 p.m., with safari opportunities available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. While the park allows flexibility in visiting hours, it’s advisable to plan your exploration within these timings. Whether you’re captivated by rare species of flora and fauna, intrigued by the park’s historical significance, or seeking an adventurous safari experience, Silent Valley Biosphere Reserve offers a unique and immersive journey into the heart of nature and must-visit place in Kerala.

Silent Valley National Park History:

Explored in 1847 by botanist Robert Wight, the Silent Valley area was initially named for the perceived absence of noisy cicadas. However, multiple stories surround its nomenclature, from Sairandhri’s anglicization to the presence of lion-tailed macaques. In 1914, the forest became a reserve forest, enduring forestry operations until 1976. The threat of a hydroelectric project in 1970s sparked the Save Silent Valley movement, leading to the cancellation of the project in 1980 and the establishment of the national park.

Flora and Fauna:

Silent Valley is a haven for biodiversity, hosting tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests in its valley areas, and South Western Ghats montane rainforests in hilly regions above 1,000 meters. The park is home to several endemic and threatened species, including the Nilgiri wood-pigeon, Malabar parakeet, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri langur, and more.

Birdlife thrives, with 16 threatened or restricted species, including the rare Ceylon frogmouth and great Indian hornbill. The 2006 winter bird survey revealed new species, such as the long-legged buzzard, and recorded 10 endangered species. Silent Valley boasts 15 endemic bird species, with 138 recorded overall, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

The mammalian population includes 34 species, with the threatened lion-tailed macaque taking center stage. Other inhabitants range from Nilgiri tahr to Peshwa’s bat, contributing to the park’s status as a sanctuary for bats, rats, and mice.

Activities and Conservation:

Visitors to Silent Valley Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in eco-friendly activities, guided nature walks, and birdwatching. The park’s visitors’ center at Sairandhri provides valuable information and serves as a starting point for exploration. The park stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, exemplified by the Save Silent Valley movement, preserving its unique biodiversity for generations to come.

Silent Valley National Park Timings:

The Silent Valley Park is open every day except Fridays. The park welcomes visitors at 6:45 a.m. and closes around 2:34 p.m.

Silent Valley National Park Safari Timings:

Safari times at the national park start from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. All safari vehicles, however, must return no later than 5 p.m. You can choose to visit Silent Valley Park at any time you want, but keep park hours in mind.

Silent Valley Eco-Park Entry Fee:

The entrance fee to Silent Valley Protected Natural Area is as follows:

• Rs. 50/person
• Rs. 1600 per jeep/vehicle (5 passengers)
• Rs. 150 guide charges
• Rs. 200 video camera
• Rs. 25 still camera

Things to Do at Silent Valley National Park:

• Go for wildlife safari
• Trek to Kunthi River
• Nature Education
• Cultural activities

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Keralamkundu Waterfalls
• Kanjirapuzha Dam
• Virgin Valley (Kuruthichal)
• Attappadi Churam
• Kanjirapuzha Garden
• Thathengalam Beach View Point
• Keerippara Camp Shed
• Neerputhoor Temple
• Vattamala View Point
• Abbanur View Point
• Cherumbu Eco Park Suspension Bridge
• Chingakallu Waterfalls
• Kalikavu Kettungal Waterfalls

Silent Valley National Park Nearby Accommodations:

• Treetop Resort, Silent valley
• KTDC Tamarind
• Diga Vista Resort
• The Tree Organic Farm & Stay
• Casa Lucio Resorts
• Great Hornbill Resorts
• Great Hornbill

Important Details of Silent Valley National Park:

Silent Valley Park on Google Map:

How to Reach Silent Valley National Park:

Silent Valley Biosphere Reserve is accessible from various points, including Mannarkkad, Nilambur, and the Nilgiris district.

By Air:

The airport nearest to Kerala’s Silent Valley Conservation Area is Coimbatore International Airport at about 117 kilometers.

By Rail:

The railway station nearest to the national park is Palakkad Junction. It is approximately 45 kilometres from Silent Valley and has easy access to all major cities in the country, including Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, and Jaipur.

By Road:

The national park in Kerala is well-connected by road to all nearby cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore, so a road trip to the park would be an exciting experience. You can get to the park by personal vehicle, bus, or taxi.

Visual Tour of Silent Valley National Park:

End Notes:

In conclusion, Silent Valley National Park stands as a perfect destination for the magnificence of India’s natural heritage, offering a sanctuary for an array of rare and endangered species. From its rich history, rooted in the explorations of botanist Robert Wight, to the successful environmental movement that preserved its unique biodiversity, Silent Valley encapsulates the delicate balance between conservation and exploration. As visitors immerse themselves in guided nature walks, birdwatching, and other eco-friendly activities, the park not only reveals its breathtaking flora and fauna but also underscores the significance of collective efforts in safeguarding our planet’s ecological treasures. Experience Kerala Tourism at its finest in the untouched wilderness of Silent Valley. Silent Valley Park remains a living example of how dedicated conservation can ensure the preservation of natural wonders for generations to come.

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