Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is widely appreciated for its scenic beauty. In 1987 Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary was renamed the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. This Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park lie in the southern part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the Anamalai Hills in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, India. This ecological paradise covers a total area of 958 sq. km.

Habitat of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

The main tourist spot of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is known as Top Slip, which has an altitude that varies from 350m to 2400 metres above sea level. Here, an attractive variety of fauna and flora can be seen. This terrain has rolling grasslands, wooded hills, deep valleys, and plateaus. The annual rainfall perceived in this region is between 500 mm to 5000 mm. Various types of deciduous vegetation cover most of the part of this National Park. This national park has the most picturesque view with evergreen and semi-evergreen types of forests. Its wet temperate and semi-evergreen habitat consists of rosewood, teak, and many more miscellaneous tropical species. This national park covers around 8,000 different species of plants.

Rare Species of Flora and Fauna Found in this Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Few endangered and rare species of flora that are found in this Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park are Diospyros nilagrica, Combretum Ovalifolium, Habebarai Reriflora, Gymnopteris Contaimirans, Alsophila, Polypodium Pleroupus, Lasianthus uenuloses, Bulbophyllum sp, Gnetum Ula, Angiopteris Erectra, Lycopodium cernuum, Impaliens Elegans, Osmunda Regalis and Ranunculus Reniformis. All the trees have placards that contain their botanical names and full details.

The population of animals in this national park is also equally divided, just like flora. Tourists can see some creatures such as Panthers, Tigers, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, etc. On the other hand,  Pangolin, Elephants, Barking Deer, Sambar, Spotted deer, Mouse Deer, Civet Cat, Nilgiris Tahr , Bonnet macaque, Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiris langur, Common langur, Malabar giant squirrel, and Grizzled giant squirrel are found in this wildlife sanctuary and National Park.

More than 500 birds consisting of migratory birds and resident birds are also found in this park. Those bird species include Hornbills, Quails, Cormorants, Storks, Orioles, Owls and Eagles, including Wayanad laughing thrush, Racket Tailed Drongo,  Black Headed Oriole, Whistling Thrust, Paradise Flycatcher, Green Pigeon, Emerald Dove,  Rufous WoodPecker, Tickell’s Flower Pecker, Black Eagle, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Fairy BlueBird, Great Indian Malabar Pied HornBill and Green Billed Malkoha.

Climatic Conditions of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

The average annual rainfall ranges between 500 mm to 5000 mm in this forest. The temperature falls from 0℃ in the winter season to 36℃ or even more at the peak of the summer months. Temperature and rainfall vary in this area as the altitude difference ranges from 350 to 2400 metres above sea level. It is best to avoid June and August to visit this National Park as these months are typically humid and warm.

 Facilities Inside the Park

Elephants and motor vehicles are available for riding inside the park on a hire basis. Visitors are also allowed to trek inside the park with the park guide. Deer, giant squirrels, hornbills, bison and elephants, etc can be seen easily during sightings. This national park is open for visitors all week from 6 am to 6 pm.

Entry Fees Inside the Park

Below 5 years- Free

For Government and Aided Schools Children (age 5 to 12 years)- Rs 2.00

For Private Schools Children (age 5 to 12 years)- Rs 10.00

Adult- Rs 15.00

Still Camera- Rs 25.00

Video Camera/ Handy Camera- Rs 150.00

For making any documentary for educational films using video or handy camera – Rs 2000

Parking charges for heavy vehicles -Rs 50

Car/ Van- Rs 15

Motor Cycle -Rs 5

Best Time to Visit Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Tourists can visit this Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park at any time  of the year . But it is better not to visit during the summer months to avoid heavy rains. This may cause problems in sightseeing and trekking plans.

Conclusion

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is a treasure for all nature lovers. Many animals, birds, and trees are present in this park. The climate is also very good, and all around the year, tourists can visit this park. Sightseeing and trekking facilities are also available for tourists.