This species is known only from Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. It has been recorded from rocky areas in tropical and subtropical dry deciduous scrub forests at an elevation of about 600 m asl. Surveys by government agencies have not indicated the presence of this species in other localities which could indicate a highly restricted distribution. Listed as Critically Endangered (B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii)) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Habitat loss due to conversion of forests to agriculture lands and plantations and fuel-wood collection.

Listed in the Schedule V (considered as vermin) of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It is not known from any protected areas. Surveys are needed to locate viable populations of this species, and to identify appropriate areas for conservation. This species is highly recommended for an urgent ex situ programme for insurance purposes due to its very restricted distribution and threat to habitat.

One of only three species in the genus Cremnomys (the other two being Cremnomys blanfordi of central and southern India, Sri Lanka and Cremnomys cutchicus of central and southern India), this poorly-known rat is known only from a few specimens. It is nocturnal and fossorial (adapted for digging).