Sirohi (Shirui) National Park

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park UPSC

Sirohi National Park, also known as Shirui National Park, is a protected area located in the state of Manipur, India. 

The national park is named after the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), a rare and endangered flower species that is found in the park. The Shirui Lily is the state flower of Manipur and is known for its vibrant colors and exquisite beauty. The park was established primarily to protect and conserve this unique flower species.

Sirohi National Park is not only of ecological importance but also holds cultural significance for the local communities. The Shirui Lily Festival, held annually in the park, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and promotes awareness about the conservation of the flower and its habitat.

Table of Contents Sirohi National Park Location Sirohi National Park History Sirohi National Park Area Sirohi National Park Hills Shirui Kashong Range Shirui National Park River Sirohi National Park Tribe Tangkhul Naga Tribe Sirohi National Park Flora Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae) Sirohi National Park Fauna Mammals Birds Reptiles Sirohi National Park UPSC Questions

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Location

Sirohi National Park is located in the Ukhrul district of the state of Manipur, India. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country, bordering Myanmar. The park is specifically located near the town of Ukhrul, which is approximately 86 kilometers (53 miles) east of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur.

The park is nestled in the picturesque Eastern Himalayas and is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and dense forests.

To reach Sirohi National Park, one can travel by road from Imphal to Ukhrul, which takes about 3-4 hours depending on the road conditions. Imphal is well-connected by air and road to major cities in India. The nearest airport is the Imphal International Airport, which has regular flights from various cities in India.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Nearest Airport:

• Imphal International Airport (103 km).

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Nearest Railway Station:

• The nearest railway station is Dimapur.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park History

Sirohi National Park, also known as Shirui National Park, has a rich history that dates back several decades. Here is a brief overview of its history:

1. Recognition of the Shirui Lily: The park gained prominence due to the presence of the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), a rare and endemic flower species found in the area. The Shirui Lily was officially recognized as the state flower of Manipur in 1989, which led to increased efforts for its conservation and protection. The flower is considered an endangered species.

2. Establishment of the Park: Sirohi National Park was established on 11th April 1982. The park was primarily created to safeguard the habitat of the Shirui Lily and other flora and fauna species in the region.

3. Importance for Local Communities: The park holds cultural significance for the local communities, especially the Tangkhul Naga tribe who inhabit the area. The Shirui Lily Festival, celebrated annually in the park, is a major cultural event that showcases the local traditions, customs, and folk dances. The festival helps raise awareness about the importance of conserving the Shirui Lily and its habitat.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Area

Sirohi National Park (Shirui National Park) covers an area of approximately 41 square kilometers (16 square miles). The park's relatively small size is due to its specific purpose of protecting the habitat of the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae) and conserving the biodiversity of the region.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Hills

Shirui Kashong Range:

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park is located in the Shirui Kashong Range (2,835 meters) of Ukhrul district in Manipur, India. Shirui Kashong Peak is the part of the Eastern Himalayas.

Shirui National Park River

Shirui National Park (Sirohi National Park) is not specifically known for any major rivers within its boundaries. However, the Ukhrul district, where Shirui National Park is located, is home to several rivers and streams that flow through the region.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Tribe

Sirohi National Park (Shirui National Park) is home to the Tangkhul Naga tribe, one of the indigenous communities of Manipur. The Tangkhul Naga tribe has a rich cultural heritage and is known for their traditional customs, dances, and festivals.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Flora

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park is known for its diverse flora, including a variety of plant species that contribute to the park's rich biodiversity. Here are some examples of the flora found in the national park:

1. Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae): The Sirohi (Shirui) National Park is famous for being the natural habitat of the rare and endangered Shirui Lily. This beautiful flower, with its vibrant colors and unique shape, is the highlight of the park and holds great cultural significance in Manipur.

2. Oak Trees: Sirohi National Park is dominated by oak trees, particularly species like Quercus griffithii and Quercus lamellosa. These broad-leaved evergreen trees are found throughout the park and provide habitat for a variety of animal species.

3. Rhododendrons: The Sirohi (Shirui) National Park is also known for its diverse collection of rhododendron species. These flowering shrubs add a splash of color to the landscape, with their vibrant blooms during the flowering season.

4. Magnolias: Several species of magnolia trees are found in Sirohi National Park. These trees are characterized by their large, fragrant flowers and glossy green leaves, contributing to the park's aesthetic appeal.

5. Coniferous Trees: Various coniferous tree species, such as pines and firs, can be found in the Sirohi (Shirui) National Park. These evergreen trees add to the park's lush greenery and provide habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae)

The Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae) is a rare and endangered flower species that is endemic to the Ukhrul district of Manipur, India. It is also known as the "Shirui Lily" or "Siroi Lily" after the name of the national park where it is primarily found.

The Shirui Lily is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows from a bulb. It typically reaches a height of about 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) and produces a single stem with narrow, lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have six petals that are pale to deep pink in color, with a dark maroon or purplish-brown base. The petals have a distinctive texture and can sometimes appear translucent.

What makes the Shirui Lily unique is its restricted habitat. It is found in the higher altitudes of the Shirui Kashong range, which is part of the Eastern Himalayas. The flower blooms for a brief period, usually from May to June, adding to its allure and rarity. The flowering of the Shirui Lily is considered a natural phenomenon and is eagerly awaited by botanists, researchers, and enthusiasts.

Due to its limited distribution and the threat of habitat loss, the Shirui Lily is listed as an endangered species. Efforts have been made by the local community, government, and conservation organizations to protect the flower and its habitat. The establishment of Sirohi National Park has played a crucial role in safeguarding the Shirui Lily and promoting its conservation.

The beauty and significance of the Shirui Lily have made it an iconic symbol of Manipur and a source of pride for the local communities. The flower is celebrated during the annual Shirui Lily Festival, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and raises awareness about the need for its conservation.

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Fauna (Sirohi (Shirui) National Park Animals)

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park is home to a diverse range of fauna, including several species of mammals, birds, and other animals. Here are some examples of the fauna found in the national park:

Mammals:

• Tiger
• Leopard
• Wild Boar
• Deer
• Antelopes

Birds:

• Blyth's Tragopan
• Mrs. Hume's Pheasant 
• Manipur Bush Quail
• Sirohi Laughingthrush

Reptiles:

• Indian Rock Python
• Common Krait
• Common Indian Monitor
• Garden Lizard
• Indian Chameleon

Sirohi (Shirui) National Park UPSC Questions

Q. What is Shirui National Park famous for?

A. Shirui National Park, also known as Sirohi National Park, is primarily famous for its association with the rare and endangered Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae). 

Q. Is Shirui Lily a national park?

A. Yes, Shirui Lily a national park in Manipur.

Q. Which national park is also known as Sirohi National Park?

A. Shirui National Park is also known as Sirohi National Park.