Silent Valley
A Natural delight!
Silent valley is a renowned national park, a secluded location ideal for being one with the nature and a site exhibiting scenic views of nature par excellence. Regarded as Palakkad districts most beautiful location, Silent valley has been extensively used for shooting of several films and commercials and is one of most popular tourist attractions in the district.
Geographically, Silent valley is located at the Kundali hills of Nilgiri, Palakkad at a distance of 40 kms from Mannarkkad town. The whole region is part of the Western Ghats World Heritage Site and of Nilgiri international biosphere reserve. A place that was at the center of several ecological and political disturbances, including the ‘Save Silent Valley’ movement’ that successfully halted state governments plan to construct a dam that threatened Silent valley’s wildlife diversity. Then in 1980, a park was created at Sairandhar.
Spreading over 90 sq. km, the valley was explored in 1847 by English botanist Robert Wright. Exhibiting a rich preserve of tropical rain forest with rare plants and herbs, the region has an average temperature of 20 degrees. Degradation is low owing to the seclusion and rough terrain of the reserve.
Blessed with an abundant variety of wildlife species, Silent valley national park houses over 26 species of animals including Elephants and lion-tailed macaques. Over 110 species of birds, including several endangered ones are also found. Reptile species include nine species of Lizards, 11 species of snakes and 19 species of amphibians. Another attraction of the valley is a wild ancient tree that is hallow from within and big enough to hold 12 people within!
Silent valley is truly a one of a kind location. It is not uncommon to hear about a new species of plants or birds discovered by the researchers from the valley. It is the only remaining tropical evergreen forests in India. The gigantic mountains and lush green valley intermingling with snow white streamlets rippling through the rocky terrains offer a dream setting to relish nature in all its glory.
Silent Valley (Best time to visit)
Although the valley is ideal for visiting any time of the year, the months from September to March are regarded the best time to visit.
Silent Valley (How to reach)
By Air: Nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 55 kms.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Palakkad, 75 kms.
