Silent Valley
- Thread starter Travguy
- Start date
Cookie
Member
This sounds really interesting, although I guess that the more people hear about it and travel there, the less peaceful and silent it might be! Joking aside, it does us good to get away to a place without cars for a while, to just soak up some of the nature vibes. I don't know much about trees and plants and animals, but there's nothing more relaxing than the chirp of insects and singing of birds. Also I suppose that as it's a big area, the chances of running into other tourists is probably fairly minimal.
amelia88
Active Member
I hadn't heard of Silent Valley before, so I just looked it up online - and it looks simply amazing! Just from the pictures, I felt like it would be such a calm and tranquil place. I also read that Silent Valley has the largest population of a particular type of endangered macaque, so it sounds like it's a great place for wildlife, too.
I feel like it would be the perfect place to visit if you really needed to relax and recharge your batteries on vacation, since it just seems so peaceful.
I feel like it would be the perfect place to visit if you really needed to relax and recharge your batteries on vacation, since it just seems so peaceful.
briannagodess
Well-Known Member
Hello there!
Silent Valley is also known as Silent Valley National Park. It is located in the Nilgiri Hills of Mannarkkad within the Palakkad District of Kerala. It is also the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It covers an area of about 234.67 acres. Locals refer to the Silent Valley as the Sairandhrivanam which means Sairandhri's Forest.
In the epic Mahabharata, Sairandhri is the disguised Draupadi, serving as the maid of a queen named Sudeshna. Draupadi is the wife of the Pandavas and during her exile, that's when she disguised as Sairandhri. The Pandavas wandered into the south of Kerala until they found this valley where everything was harmonious and beautiful. This is where they stayed, at a cave near the river.
Historically, it was Robert Wight who discovered the valley in 1857. The area was named as the Silent Valley because of the absence of noisy cicadas in the area. There were plans to build a hydroelectric project in the valley but many people protested against it as it can threaten the biodiversity of the region. So that project was halted and the valley was saved.
There's lots to see in the national park as it's rich in flora and fauna. About 16 species of birds here are threatened, these are the following:
It is both actually. There's an entrance fee of Rs. 50 per head here. You can also rent a jeep or bring your car in for a fee. It's just like any other national park. Inside, you get to see dense forests and grasslands as well.
The Mudugar and the Irula tribes are indigenous in the region. They live in the adjacent Attappady Reserve Forest. You can also find the Kurumbar tribes residing nearest to the park. In fact, many people from these tribes have started working for the park as forest rangers, porters and guides.
I hope this helps!
Silent Valley is also known as Silent Valley National Park. It is located in the Nilgiri Hills of Mannarkkad within the Palakkad District of Kerala. It is also the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It covers an area of about 234.67 acres. Locals refer to the Silent Valley as the Sairandhrivanam which means Sairandhri's Forest.
In the epic Mahabharata, Sairandhri is the disguised Draupadi, serving as the maid of a queen named Sudeshna. Draupadi is the wife of the Pandavas and during her exile, that's when she disguised as Sairandhri. The Pandavas wandered into the south of Kerala until they found this valley where everything was harmonious and beautiful. This is where they stayed, at a cave near the river.
Historically, it was Robert Wight who discovered the valley in 1857. The area was named as the Silent Valley because of the absence of noisy cicadas in the area. There were plans to build a hydroelectric project in the valley but many people protested against it as it can threaten the biodiversity of the region. So that project was halted and the valley was saved.
There's lots to see in the national park as it's rich in flora and fauna. About 16 species of birds here are threatened, these are the following:
- Nilgiri wood pigeon
- Malabar parakeet
- Malabar grey hornbill
- White-bellied tripe
- Grey-headed bulbul
- Broad-tailed grass bird
- Rufous babbler
- Wynaad laughing thrush
- Nilgiri laughing thrush
- Nilgiri blue robin
- Black and rufous flycatcher
- Nilgiri flycatcher
- White-bellied blue flycatcher
- Crimson-backed sunbird
- Nilgiri pipit
- Lion-tailed macaque
- Nilgiri langur
- Malabar giant squirrel
- Nilgiri tahr
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Indian pangolin
It is both actually. There's an entrance fee of Rs. 50 per head here. You can also rent a jeep or bring your car in for a fee. It's just like any other national park. Inside, you get to see dense forests and grasslands as well.
The Mudugar and the Irula tribes are indigenous in the region. They live in the adjacent Attappady Reserve Forest. You can also find the Kurumbar tribes residing nearest to the park. In fact, many people from these tribes have started working for the park as forest rangers, porters and guides.
I hope this helps!
If you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature, Silent Valley National Park in Kerala is the perfect destination. Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, this hidden gem is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a rare glimpse of one of India's last untouched tropical rainforests.
Have you been to Silent Valley? Share your experience and tips with us below!
Why Visit Silent Valley?
Silent Valley offers something for every nature lover, from the quiet stillness of its forests to the rare wildlife that calls it home. Here’s why you should add it to your Kerala travel itinerary:- A Nature Lover’s Dream – Silent Valley is a paradise for anyone who loves unspoiled natural beauty. Its lush green canopy, pristine rivers, and towering trees create an almost magical atmosphere.
- Rich Wildlife – Home to endangered species like the Lion-tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Langur, Silent Valley is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Keep your eyes peeled for a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals!
- Conservation at its Best – As one of the most important protected areas in India, Silent Valley plays a crucial role in preserving the delicate ecosystems of the Western Ghats. A visit here not only immerses you in nature but also supports wildlife conservation efforts.
Things to Do in Silent Valley
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Trekking at Mukkali | Mukkali is the main entry point to the park and offers a fantastic trekking experience through dense forests. |
| Wildlife Watching at Sairandhri | Spot unique animals and birds while enjoying the serene views at this scenic spot. |
| Visit the Silent Valley Nature Interpretation Centre | Learn about the park’s wildlife and conservation efforts through exhibits and informative displays. |
| Relax by Kunthipuzha River | Take a peaceful walk along the river and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. |
When to Visit Silent Valley?
The best time to visit Silent Valley is during the dry season, from November to March. The weather is cooler, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife spotting. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rains, which might make the trails slippery and the park less accessible.How to Reach Silent Valley?
Getting to Silent Valley is relatively easy, though it requires a bit of planning. Here's how you can get there:- By Road: The nearest town to the park is Palakkad, around 50 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to the park entrance.
- By Train: Palakkad Junction is the nearest railway station.
- By Air: The closest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 70 km away, making it a convenient option for international travelers.
Insider Tips for Your Visit:
- Go with a Guide – If you want to truly experience the magic of Silent Valley, it’s a great idea to hire a local guide. They can help you spot wildlife and teach you about the park’s rich ecology.
- Dress Comfortably – The park has a few beautiful trails, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing.
- Pack Essentials – Bring essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!
Final Thoughts
Silent Valley is more than just a destination; it's an experience that will reconnect you with nature in its purest form. Whether you’re hiking through its dense forests, observing wildlife, or simply soaking in the tranquility, this national park is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.Have you been to Silent Valley? Share your experience and tips with us below!
