Nedumkayam Rainforest is situated about 18 km from Nilambur. The woods hold a rustic feel about them with old wooden house hidden within established under the British rule. The forest area is also home to the oldest teak plantation in the world, dating back to 1840’s and spreading across a gigantic area of 2.3 hectares. Studded with luscious thick green forest cover, amazingly clear water streams and rare species of flora and fauna, it provides you with a surreal experience. Bison, tigers, macaques, deer, wild cats are the prominent animals that reside in these forests. Elephants are a major feature of the jungle area and an elephant taming camp also situated here.This rainforest is a part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich biodiversity.
The wooden rest house built in the forest premises during the British colonial times is still in use, offering a fantastic panoramic view of grazing grounds of wild elephants and deer. Trekking and hiking trails are a huge crowd attractor. Nedumkayam rainforest is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The dense forests of the region make up the New Amarambalam Reserved Forest and are home to almost all of the mammals in the Western Ghats and more than 200 species of birds, hence classifying it as an Important Bird Area.
Nedumkayam is often considered a gateway to the Silent Valley National Park, which is located nearby. Silent Valley is another ecologically significant area in the Western Ghats and is known for its unique and diverse wildlife. Conservation efforts have been ongoing to protect the delicate ecosystem of Nedumkayam Rainforest. The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) and the Kerala Forest Department play a crucial role in managing and preserving this forest. Nedumkayam is accessible by road and is well-connected to nearby towns and cities in Kerala. The nearest major town is Nilambur, which is about 17 kilometers away.
Visitors to Nedumkayam Rainforest are encouraged to follow guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment and to respect the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It is essential to maintain the ecological integrity of the rainforest for future generations to enjoy and for the conservation of its unique biodiversity. If you plan to visit, it’s a good idea to check for any updated information and permits required from the local authorities or forest department, as rules and regulations may change over time.
