Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary
Tucked away in the valley between the Anamalai Ranges of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy ranges of Kerala on the majestic Western Ghats is the Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary, a fine example of serene, tranquil and undisturbed eco system. Situated in Palakkad district, it was originally a small tract of reserve forest of 48 sq.km. However, owing to growing wildlife needs, it was expanded in 1962 and today it is a vast expanse of greenery of 285 sq.kms. in area.
Ideally suited to the growth of teak, the tract encouraged large scale teak plantations through artificial regeneration in the early 20's. This was, however abandoned when a full-fledged wildlife department was formed in 1985. 9000ha.of teak plantations in the sanctuary are being managed in such a way as to restore the forest's original status. A giant teak tree 40m high and 6.4m in girth is a standing monument of the past aptly named 'Kannimaram'.
Topography. Several streams originate from the hill ranges and flow down westward to join the river Chalakudi. The terrain is most undulating with a valley in the basin. The Karimala Gopuram is the highest peak (1444m), the average elevation is about 600m.
Climate. The Sanctuary receives much heavier rains between June and August. The eastern part of the sanctuary receives more rain in October-November. Temperature drops substantially and mist envelopes the sanctuary in the morning hours.
Dams and Lakes. Three dams have been built by the Tamil Nadu Government under the Parambikulam-Aliyar Project. The reservoir offers several kinds of aquatic fauna
Forest types. Natural forests are classified as follows 1. West coast tropical evergreen forests. 2. West Coast semi evergreen forests. 3. South Indian moist deciduous forests. 4. South Indian dry deciduous forests. 5. Moist bamboo brakes. 6. Reed brakes.
Tropical evergreen forests. (Area 50sq.kms approximately) A wide variety of trees grow here the top canopy consists of Pall, Puunna, Nangu, Vediplavu, Kalpine, Aini, Kambakam, Vellapine, Vellagil, Pathiri, Nedunar, etc. Lower canopy predominantly consists of Vetti Kara, Nasagam, Marotti, Kurukutti, cheru, Muthalvu etc. Undergrowth comprises Antidesma, Calamas, Glycosmis, Kxora species etc.
Semi-evergreen forests.(extent 30sq.kms.) Both evergreen and moist deciduous species are found in these areas.
Moist deciduous forests.(extent 70 sq.kms.) Top canopy: Manjakadambu, Vaka, Pala, Elavu, Vembu, Rosewood, Avaal, Venteak, Venga, Teak, Maruthi, Pathiri etc.
Lower Canopy: Arampuli, Pezhu, Konna, Kodapunna, Murukku, Kanjiram, bamboos, etc.
Southern dry deciduous forests. (extent 15 sq.kms)
Top canopy: Teak, Vengal, Muzhukanjiram, Maruthi, Vaka, Mulluvenga, Rosewood, etc.
Middle & lower capony: Veppu (neem), Manjanathi, Sandal, etc. with moistpatches of Dendorcalamus and Bamboosa arun - dinact. Undergrowth is chiefly at Lantana and Heli ncteres besides grass.
Fauna - Mammals: Bonnet macaque, Lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri hangur, lions, Tiger, Leopard, Jungle cat, Civet, Mongoose, Fox, Bear, Elephant, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Barking deer, Wild boar, Pangolin etc.
Administration : The sanctuary is healded by a Divisional Forest Officer with headquarters at Thunacadavu and is under the direct control of the Field Director, Project Tiger. There are four ranges with 13 sections.
The sactuary is accessible by road. Buses ply between Pollachi and Parambikulam. Pollachi is 60 kms. away and has a Railway Station. The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 100 kms. away. Visitors can have boat rides in the Parambikulam lake and tour the sanctuary with the help of guides. There is a forest rest house at Thunacadavu. The Parambikulam Project also provides accommodation. There are several hotels in Pollachi and Coimbatore.
Content Courtesy: Department of Information & Public Relation