In the luxuriantly forested foothills of the Nilgiris, this 321 sq-km sanctuary is part of a much larger reserve (3000 sq km) which includes Bandipur and Wynad in neighbouring Karnataka and Kerala. The name Mudumalai means Old Hill in Tamil and, although the park was recently renamed the Jayalalitha Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park, it's still very much known by its original name.
In Mudumalai, the mostly dense forest is home to chital (spotted deer), gaur (Indian bison),tiger,panther, wild boar and sloth bear, otters and crocodiles inhabit the Moyar River.The park's wild elephant population, one of the largest in the country. The best time to visit Mudumalai is between February and June. Heavy rain is common in October and November and the park may be closed during the dry season.

Tours of the park are limited to the sanctuary's minibuses, a jeep and elephants. Private vehicles are not allowed to make tours.The one-hour elephant rides can be booked in advance at the Wildlife Warden's office in Ooty or direct at the Theppakadu Reception Centre.