Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Karnataka, India. The sanctuary is characterized by its diverse flora and fauna, making it an important conservation area in the region.
The sanctuary is named after the Malai Mahadeshwara Temple, a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center situated within the sanctuary. The temple attracts a significant number of visitors throughout the year.
The sanctuary also attracts tourists and nature enthusiasts who are interested in experiencing the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. Safaris and nature walks are often organized to allow visitors to explore the sanctuary's landscapes and observe wildlife.
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Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chamarajanagar district of the state of Karnataka, India. It is situated in the southern part of the state, near the border with Tamil Nadu.
The sanctuary is specifically located around the Malai Mahadeshwara Hills, and it encompasses the area surrounding the Malai Mahadeshwara Temple.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to the Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is the Kempegowda International Airport (242km) in Bangalore, Karnataka. It is the major international airport in the region and is well-connected to various cities within India and around the world.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is the Chamarajanagar Railway Station, which is approximately 40 kilometers away. Chamarajanagar is well-connected by rail to various cities in Karnataka and neighboring states.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary has historical and religious significance in addition to its ecological importance. Here's an overview of its history:
Religious Significance: The sanctuary is named after the Malai Mahadeshwara Temple, which is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Mahadeshwara (Shiva). The temple has a rich history dating back centuries and is an important religious center for devotees. It attracts a large number of pilgrims who visit to seek blessings and participate in religious rituals.
Cultural Heritage: The temple complex and the surrounding areas hold cultural and historical importance. The temple's architecture and sculptures often reflect the artistic styles of different periods in history. The cultural practices and traditions associated with the temple have been passed down through generations.
Establishment: The establishment of the wildlife sanctuary was driven by the need to protect the diverse flora and fauna in the region. In 2013, the area was declared a wildlife sanctuary to conserve the biodiversity and provide a safe habitat for various plant and animal species. This highlights the modern conservation efforts made to preserve the natural heritage of the region.
Local Legends: The temple and the hills surrounding it are often associated with local legends and myths. These stories have contributed to the temple's significance and have become part of the cultural fabric of the region.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 906 square kilometers (about 350 square miles). This vast expanse of land is situated in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, India.
The sanctuary's terrain includes a variety of landscapes, such as hills, valleys, forests, and grasslands, making it an ecologically diverse region that supports a wide range of plant and animal species.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is situated around the Malai Mahadeshwara Hills, which are part of the Eastern Ghats mountain range. These hills are not only known for their natural beauty but also hold cultural and religious significance due to the presence of the Malai Mahadeshwara Temple.
Malai Mahadeshwara Hills:
Here are some key points about the hills:
Geographical Location: The Malai Mahadeshwara Hills are located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, near the border with Tamil Nadu in southern India.
Elevation: The hills have varying elevations, with the highest point reaching around 1,211 meters (3,973 feet) above sea level. The undulating terrain adds to the visual appeal of the region.
Religious Significance: The hills are home to the Malai Mahadeshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Mahadeshwara, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees who visit to seek blessings and offer prayers.
Ecological Diversity: The hills and the surrounding region are characterized by their rich biodiversity. The sanctuary's varied landscapes, including grasslands and forests, provide habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species.
Local Culture: The hills and the temple have cultural significance as they are associated with local legends, myths, and historical narratives. The temple festivities and rituals contribute to the cultural fabric of the region.
Overall, the Malai Mahadeshwara Hills are a blend of natural beauty, religious importance, and ecological significance, making them a unique and multifaceted destination for visitors and pilgrims alike.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by diverse flora due to its varying landscapes, which include hills, valleys, grasslands, and forests. The predominant forest type of the sanctuary is dry and moist deciduous forests.
The sanctuary's flora contributes to its ecological significance and provides habitats for various animal species. Here are some of the common types of flora you can find in the sanctuary:
(1) Dry Deciduous Forests:
These forests are dominated by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season to conserve water. Species like teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and several species of acacia are found in these forests.
(2) Grasslands:
The sanctuary has open grasslands and meadows, which provide habitat and forage for herbivores like gaurs (Indian bison), deer, and other animals.
(3) Shrubs and Undergrowth:
Various types of shrubs, bushes, and undergrowth plants can be found throughout the sanctuary. These contribute to the overall biodiversity and provide cover and food for smaller animals.
(4) Bamboo Groves:
Bamboo is often found in the sanctuary, forming thick groves that provide shelter for wildlife.
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammals, birds, reptiles, and other animals. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including hills, forests, grasslands, and water bodies, contribute to its rich biodiversity.
Here are some of the common types of fauna you can find in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Indian Elephant
- Gaur
- Wild Boar
- Dhole
- Spotted Deer
- Barking Deer
- Sambar
- Four-horned Antelope
- Black-naped Hare
- Chevrotain
- Common Langur
- Bonnet Macaque
- Ratel
Birds:
The sanctuary is host a diverse array of bird species, both resident and migratory. This include raptors, water birds, songbirds, and more.
Reptiles:
- Kollegal Ground Gecko
- Monitor Lizards
- Snakes
Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Which district is Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chamarajanagar district of the state of Karnataka, India. Chamarajanagar is the district where the sanctuary is situated, and it encompasses the Malai Mahadeshwara Hills and the surrounding area.
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