Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
The popular Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is amongst the 21 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Karnataka. The sanctuary is located near Mandalpatti in Somwarpet taluk of Coorg district. The area is enveloped by dense forest area making it a favourite amongst trekkers and nature lovers.
The forest is of semi-evergreen and dense evergreen trees in nature attracting several species of exotic plants and animals. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is recognized as an area exclusive to rare and exotic birds along with other species of flora and fauna specific to this region.
The Kadamakal Reserve Forest is an integral part of the sanctuary with Pushpagiri being the highest peak in it. Kumara Parvatha is the other peak that lies within it. The sanctuary is strategically located with Bisle reserve forest to the north and Kukke Subramanya forest range to the west.
The rolling Shola grasslands specific to the Western Ghats, beautiful valleys and meadows, swamps and quaint water bodies create magic in this area. One can spot a variety of animals like the Indian hare, spotted deer, giant flying squirrel, otters, Indian wild dog, brown palm civet, wild pig, stripe-necked mongoose, sambar, elephants, gaur, mouse deer, etc. Primates like common langur, lion-tailed macaque, and bonnet macaque can also be spotted easily.
The famous and gorgeous Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is being frequented by nature lovers and adventure seekers every year. Strategically placed near Madikeri, trekkers here enjoy a day-long trek across the lush terrain crisscrossing the easy and not so easy trails. A few prefer staying back to enjoy the night camping and celebrating wilderness with family and friends.
