Silent Valley National Park
A pristine tropical rainforest in the Nilgiri Hills of Kerala, Silent Valley was saved from a hydroelectric dam by one of India's most significant conservation campaigns. It hosts lion-tailed macaques and a remarkable diversity of endemic species.
Area (km²)
237.52
Established
1980
District
Palakkad
Nearest City
Mannarkkad
Quick Facts
Silent Valley's name is attributed to the absence of cicadas, creating an eerie quietness.
The campaign to save Silent Valley from a dam in the 1970s–80s became India's first major environmental movement.
It is one of the last undisturbed stretches of tropical rainforest in the Western Ghats.
Over 1,000 species of flowering plants including 100 orchid species grow here.
Habitat & Best Time to Visit
Habitat Types
Best Time to Visit
Dec – Apr
Visiting requires entry permits. Monsoon season is restricted due to access difficulties.
Designations
Gates & Safari Zones
Mukkali
Zone Core
Permit required; visitor numbers strictly limited.
