Dindigul: The picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal has temporarily closed several of its most popular tourist attractions after increased wild elephant sightings in the area. The Dindigul Forest Department has barred visitors from entering Guna Cave, Berijam Lake, Pillar Rock, Pine Forest and Moir Point until further notice as a precautionary measure. Officials report multiple elephant herds have been regularly venturing into these public spaces, creating potential safety hazards for tourists in what is normally one of Tamil Nadu’s busiest hill destinations after Ooty.
Forest Department personnel have intensified ground patrols to monitor elephant movements and enforce the restrictions. “We’re seeing unprecedented elephant activity in areas normally frequented by tourists,” explained District Forest Officer. “While we understand this may disappoint visitors, human safety and animal welfare must take priority.” The department has set up checkpoints and barricades at key locations, turning away tourists attempting to access the prohibited zones. Local shop owners near the closed attractions report business has dropped by nearly 60% since the ban was implemented three days ago.
Balancing Tourism and Conservation
This isn’t the first time Kodaikanal has implemented strict measures to protect its fragile ecosystem. Earlier this year, authorities collected Rs 9 lakh in fines from operators of unauthorized heavy vehicles like excavators and JCBs that were damaging the hills’ delicate terrain. Wildlife experts suggest the current elephant movement could be part of seasonal migration patterns or possibly linked to habitat changes in the surrounding forests.
Environmental activists have welcomed the temporary closures. “These elephants aren’t invading human spaces – we’ve built our tourist infrastructure in their ancient corridors,” noted conservationist Dr. Priya Mohan. The Forest Department is working with local guides to redirect visitors to alternative sites like Bryant Park and Coaker’s Walk that remain open and are considered safe. Officials expect to review the situation weekly, but caution that the restrictions may remain through the monsoon season if elephant activity persists.