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Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. It is one of the biodiversity hotspots of the Western Ghats and is known for its tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, sloth bears, Indian gaur, and several species of primates. The reserve is also known for its unique dam and boating facility on the Parambikulam River, which offers visitors the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the reserve. Due to its ecological significance and diverse wildlife, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a popular destination for ecotourism and nature enthusiasts.
Read about: Tiger Reserves in India
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Landscape
The reserve is spread over an area of 643.66 square kilometers, making it one of the largest protected areas in Kerala. The terrain of the reserve is hilly, with the Western Ghats Mountain range running through it. The Anamalai Hills and Nelliampathy Hills are prominent ranges within the reserve. The highest peak in the reserve is Karimala Gopuram, which stands at an altitude of 1,443 meters. The reserve is also home to four dams, including the Parambikulam Dam, which is built across the Parambikulam River. The reservoir formed by the dam is an important source of water for the wildlife in the reserve.
The reserve also features several perennial rivers, including the Parambikulam, Sholayar, and Thekkady rivers. These rivers, along with their tributaries, create a complex network of water bodies that support the diverse flora and fauna of the reserve. The reserve is also home to several wetlands, including the Thoonakkadavu and Nedukkayam wetlands, which provide a habitat for a wide variety of water birds.
Read about: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Map
Here is a Map of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve given below:
Parabikulam Tiger Reserve Flora
Here is a detailed account of the vegetation found in the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.
| Flora | Description |
| Tropical and Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests | The main type of forest found in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests. These forests are characterized by tall trees with dense foliage, and are typically found in areas with high rainfall. |
| Tree Species | The reserve is home to more than 1,400 species of plants, including a wide variety of tree species. Notable tree species found in the reserve include teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and Indian mahogany. These trees are valued for their wood and are often illegally harvested. |
| Understory Plants | In addition to tall trees, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve also has a rich understory of plants. Common understory plants in the reserve include bamboo, ferns & orchids that provide important habitats for wildlife species. |
| Aquatic Plants | The reserve is also known for its significant populations of aquatic plants. These plants are found in the various lakes and streams that flow through the reserve, and provide important habitat for aquatic animals. Common aquatic plants in the reserve include water lilies, lotus, and water hyacinth. |
| Medicinal Plants | Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is home to a number of medicinal plants that have been used by local communities for centuries. These plants are an important source of traditional medicine, and are often harvested and sold in local markets. Some of the commonly found medicinal plants in the reserve include neem, turmeric, and aloe vera. |
Read about: Sariska Tiger Reserve
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Fauna
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife and is considered to be one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
| Fauna | Description |
| Mammals | Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is home to a variety of mammals, including the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, elephant, sambar deer, sloth bear, and many more. |
| Birds | The reserve is also home to over 250 species of birds, including the great Indian hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, spot-billed pelican, Indian grey hornbill etc. |
| Reptiles | Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is home to a number of reptiles, including the Indian rock python, king cobra, mugger crocodile, Indian chameleon, and many species of turtles and lizards. |
| Fish | The reserve is also known for its fish population, with a number of species found in the lakes and rivers, including the mahseer, rohu, and catfish. |
| Insects | The reserve is home to a diverse range of insects, including butterflies, moths, beetles, and many more. |
| Amphibians | The reserve is also home to a variety of amphibians, including several species of frogs, toads, and salamanders. |
Read More: Jim Corbett National Park
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Tourism
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscape. The reserve offers a range of activities, including wildlife safaris, trekking, bird watching, and boat rides. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife species, such as tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, sambar deer, and langurs, among others. The reserve also has several watchtowers and viewpoints that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and water bodies. In addition, the reserve has several eco-tourism initiatives that offer visitors the chance to experience the local culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes.
Read about: Wildlife Sanctuaries of India
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve UPSC
For those appearing for the UPSC exam, knowledge about wildlife reserves is important as they have been a topic of interest in General Studies, Environmental Studies papers. If you want to gain a better understanding of effective UPSC exam preparation, you can explore the official StudyIQ UPSC Online Coaching website, which offers study material and tips to help you prepare for the exam. Additionally, the website offers UPSC Mock Test, providing an opportunity to evaluate your level of preparation for the exam. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is one such wildlife reserve that can be an important topic for the UPSC exam, and having knowledge about its flora and fauna, landscape, and tourism can be beneficial.
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