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The Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. It was established in 1976 and spans across an area of about 958 square kilometers (370 square miles).
The sanctuary is named after the Anamalai Hills, which are part of the Western Ghats mountain range. It is situated between the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy Hills of Kerala.
Biodiversity
The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical evergreen forests to grasslands and shola forests.
The Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous species of flora and fauna. It is particularly renowned for its population of the endangered lion-tailed macaque, which is a rare and endemic primate species found in the Western Ghats.
Other wildlife species found in the sanctuary include elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), sloth bears, sambar deer, and many species of birds and reptiles.
The sanctuary offers various opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can engage in activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, trekking, and nature walks. There are also several watchtowers and viewpoints within the sanctuary that provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Ecosystem Conservation
Conservation efforts are in place to protect the ecosystem and wildlife of the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. The area is managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, which works towards preserving the natural habitats and promoting eco-tourism while ensuring the well-being of the wildlife.
Overall, the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant conservation area in India, known for its diverse flora and fauna and the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.
Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is located about 90 km from Coimbatore at an altitude of 1,400m in the Western Ghats near Pollachi.
It’s a calm and peaceful area everyone will enjoy the beauty of nature.
The sanctuary has various kinds of fauna like elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sloth bear, deer,wild bear, wild dog. Other animals are porcupine, flying squirrel, jackal, pangolin, civet cat and birds like rocket-tailed drongo, red whiskered bulbul, tree pie, black headed oriole, spotted dove,pigeon.
It has recently been renamed Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Near by attractive places are Thiru moorthy hills, Aliyar, Valparai,Chinna.
Certainly! Here are some notable places within or near the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Topslip: Located within the sanctuary, Topslip is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. It serves as the entry point to the sanctuary and offers accommodation facilities.
- Valparai: Situated in the Anamalai Hills, Valparai is a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea and coffee plantations. It is a great place to enjoy nature, spot wildlife, and explore the nearby attractions.
- Amaravathi Reservoir: Located close to the sanctuary, the Amaravathi Reservoir is a man-made lake formed by the Amaravathi Dam. It offers boating facilities and is an excellent spot for birdwatching.
- Aliyar Dam: Situated near Pollachi, Aliyar Dam is another popular tourist spot near the sanctuary. The dam provides a picturesque setting with lush greenery and offers boating and fishing activities.
- Monkey Falls: Located near Valparai, Monkey Falls is a natural waterfall nestled in the lush forests of the Anamalai Hills. It is a refreshing place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Sholayar Dam: Situated near Valparai, the Sholayar Dam is one of the largest dams in Asia. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a popular tourist attraction.
- Grass Hills: Located within the sanctuary, Grass Hills is a high-altitude area covered with grasslands and shola forests. It is a great place for trekking and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Though not directly within the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located nearby in Kerala. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
These are just a few of the notable places within or near the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Exploring these destinations allows visitors to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.