Silent Valley is one of the last remaining patches of virgin tropical rainforest in southern India. Covering about 90 sq km in the northeastern corner of Palakkad district, it forms the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and has an almost unbroken ecological history, thanks largely to its difficult terrain and remoteness.
Despite its name, Silent Valley is anything but silent. The forest is thick with birdsong, insect noise and the sound of the Kunthi River, which descends from the Nilgiri hills and runs crystal clear through the entire length of the valley before plunging through a deep gorge to the plains below.
The dense canopy makes wildlife viewing difficult compared to more open sanctuaries, but that is part of the appeal. The park is home to lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, elephants, gaur and a remarkable diversity of plant life. This is a place for those who appreciate the forest itself rather than just the animals in it.
Visiting requires a permit from the Division Forest Officer in Palakkad, and prior booking is needed. The park entrance is at Mukkali, about 40 km from Palakkad town. The nearest railway station is at Palakkad (Olavakode), well connected to Kochi and Coimbatore.