Topslip

Topslip

Topslip is a breathtaking ecological hotspot located in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats, in the Pollachi taluk of Tamil Nadu. Positioned at an altitude of about 800 feet above sea level, it serves as the main entry point to the stunning Anamalai Tiger Reserve (formerly Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary).

Topslip is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve located in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats, near Pollachi in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. Situated at an elevation of roughly 800 feet, it gets its name from the historical British-era practice of sliding harvested timber logs down the slopes from the hills.

  • ​Rich Wildlife Habitat: Part of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Topslip is nestled amidst dense moist deciduous and evergreen forests. It is home to diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, elephants, sloth bears, wild dogs, and several species of deer and primates like the lion-tailed macaque.
  • ​Elephant Camp & Safari: The region is well-known for its elephant camp where visitors can observe trained captive elephants. Forest department-managed jeep safaris, van safaris, and guided nature walks offer immersive opportunities to explore the deep wilderness.
  • ​Bird Watching Haven: With over 250 species of birds, it is a paradise for ornithologists and bird lovers, featuring frequent sightings of the Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar trogon, and various raptors.

​Are you planning a wildlife safari, a nature trek, or an eco-tourism getaway to the Anamalai hills?

FAQs

Where exactly is Topslip, and how do I get there?
Topslip is located about 37 km from the town of Pollachi in Tamil Nadu. It sits right on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The nearest major transport hub is Coimbatore (approx. 80 km away), which has an airport and a major railway station. Travelers typically drive from Pollachi through the Sethumadai check post to reach the forest station.
Can I stay overnight inside the forest at Topslip? ​Yes, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department
Yes, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department provides eco-lodges, tree houses, and forest rest houses directly at Topslip. However, because it is located inside a restricted tiger reserve, prior booking is mandatory. Bookings must be made in advance through the official Tamil Nadu Forest Department website or directly at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve office in Pollachi.
What is the Kozhikamuthi Elephant Camp?
Located very close to Topslip, Kozhikamuthi is a historic and highly respected elephant camp operated by the Forest Department. It houses captive elephants used for forest patrolling and timber handling. ​Visitors can watch the elephants being bathed, fed, and trained by their traditional mahouts (caretakers), who belong to the indigenous tribal communities. It's an incredible opportunity to see how deeply the local tribes understand these majestic animals.
What activities can tourists do in Topslip?
Topslip is strictly managed as a protected wildlife reserve, so recreational activities are focused entirely on nature eco-tourism: ​Vehicle Safari: The Forest Department runs organized van safaris into the deeper woods. ​Elephant Safari: Short rides on trained elephants are available based on availability. ​Guided Trekking: This is Topslip’s absolute best feature. You can hire a certified tribal guide to take you on walking trails through the bamboo forests and moist-deciduous jungles.

Price From : ₹400/-

Address

Topslip, Parambikulam Road, Sethumadai, Tamil Nadu, India