Varayattumudy emerging a thriving habitat of Nilgiri tahrs

Nilgiri tahrs at the Varayattumudy hills under the Adimaly forest range in Idukki. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT While Eravikulam National Park (ENP) in Munnar is widely known as the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri tahr, the grasslands of Varayattumudy under the Adimaly forest range have now emerged as another crucial sanctuary for the species. According to forest officials, the Nilgiri tahr population on the Varayattumudy hills has risen significantly, with nearly 150 tahrs recently sighted, up from around 50 in 2022.​Adimaly Deputy Range Officer Manoj T. Mathew said that during a recent census, the forest team spotted nearly 100 Nilgiri tahrs on the Varayattumudy hills, and estimates suggest the total number has now reached 150.​“Varayattumudy is considered a major natural habitat for tahrs. The steep terrain and rock holes attract them to these hills. The cliff-filled, natural grassland landscape is unique to Varayattumudy, which is likely the main reason for the growing population in the area,” said Mr. Mathew.Climate, a key reason​“The Varayattumudy cliff sits at an elevation of 986 metres, featuring grasslands, shola forests, and a windy climate similar to the Eravikulam model. This climate is a key reason Varayattumudy has emerged as a thriving habitat for the Nilgiri tahr,” Mr. Mathew added.​Adimaly Range Officer P.C. Rajan noted that the Forest department has already completed an eco-restoration project across 22.5 hectares of the Varayattumudy hills. ​“The grasslands were previously dominated by exotic plant species. Their removal has ensured better food availability for the Nilgiri tahrs, driving their population growth,” Mr. Rajan said. “The Forest department will now carry out eco-restoration on an additional 50 hectares of land at Varayattumudy, which will further secure food supplies for the tahrs and other local wildlife.”Better surveillance​Upon noticing the increase in the tahr population, the department stepped up its protection and surveillance measures in the area. ​According to officials, three tribal settlements — Chinnappara, Thalanirappan, and Choorakkettan — are located inside the Varayattumudy hills. To protect the forest and wildlife while supporting local livelihoods, a Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS) was formed at Chinnapparakkudy.​“The Forest department has submitted a proposal to initiate an eco-tourism trekking programme at Mainappara, near Varayattumudy, aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for the local tribal community,” an official said.​Officials added that the broader habitat corridor includes Panniyumpuliymala, Aranamudi, Muthanmudi, and Varayattumudy, extending into the Neriamangalam range. Published - July 30, 2026 05:44 pm IST