Pampadum Shola, at 1.32 sq km, is the smallest national park in Kerala

Background

The Kerala Forest Department records Pampadum Shola National Park, in Idukki district, as the smallest national park in the state, covering an area of 1.32 sq. km, and declared a national park in 2004.
Anamudi Shola National Park, also in Idukki district, covers an area of 7.5 sq. km and was declared a national park in 2003.
Both are part of the Anamalai sub-cluster, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The name “Pampadum Shola” translates to “the forest where the snake dances”, and the park serves as a wildlife corridor between Eravikulam National Park and the Palani Hills.
Anamudi Shola forms part of the catchment area for the Pambar and Chinnar rivers, and shelters the Nilgiri Tahr, the Indian Wild Dog and the Nilgiri Marten.