Papanasam

Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Kanyakumari

Wildlife sanctuaries of Kalakad and Mundanthurai were merged together to form Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in the year 1988. It is the second largest protected forest area in Tamil Nadu and is home to commendable population of the royal Bengal tigers. Other exciting wild species at the reserve include leopards, jungle cats, gaur, elephants, sambar, sloth bear, bonnet macaque, giant squirrel, crocodile and many more. The reserve is also home to several endemic bird species like hornbills, bulbuls and warblers. Butterflies in many varieties can also be spotted here. It is also a treasure trove of many types of forests including evergreen, tropical evergreen, semi evergreen, most mixed deciduous, dry teak, thorn forests, reed forests and many more. Grasslands along with these forests add beautiful hues to the overall area of about 895 sq. km. The reserve’s splendour is further enhanced by 14 rivers and streams and some truly magnificent waterfalls like Agasthiyar, Banatheertham and Manimuthar. South India’s third highest peak called Agasthiarmalai is also located within the reserve. Thrilling boat rides and invigorating trekking trails let the visitors explore the place in the most entertaining manner.