Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka, India
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected nature reserve located in the Western Ghats mountains, featuring evergreen forests, mountain grasslands, and high peaks. The reserve contains multiple ecosystems and water sources that together support a diverse range of wildlife habitats.
The sanctuary was established in 1987 when the Karnataka Forest Department designated the Kadamakal Reserved Forests as a protected wildlife zone. This declaration marked the start of formal conservation efforts in this mountainous part of the Western Ghats.
The sanctuary sits next to Kukke Subramanya Temple, a major pilgrimage destination where worshippers gather to honor Lord Subramanya surrounded by forest and mountain. This sacred place and the wild landscape around it form a single spiritual experience for many visitors.
The reserve can be explored on foot or with guided tours, though access may vary depending on the season and weather conditions in the mountains. It helps to arrive early in the day and wear sturdy shoes and rain protection, as mountain conditions can change quickly.
The reserve sits at the base of Kumara Parvatha, Karnataka's second-highest peak, which draws hikers seeking to reach the summit. The area is also known for its six year-round streams that flow through different elevation zones and feed the water-based food web.
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