Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, Tiger reserve in Coimbatore district, India
Anaimalai Tiger Reserve is a national park in Coimbatore district, India, covering tropical jungle, shola forest, and grassland. The protected area rises through the Western Ghats to around 2400 meters (7900 feet) and includes several forest types and open plateaus.
The area was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1974 and later expanded into a tiger reserve. The current name was given after a visit in 1961 to honor political support for conservation efforts.
The name honors a former prime minister who visited the area and championed its protection. Six tribal communities have lived here for generations and maintain traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and forest routes that visitors sometimes learn about during guided tours.
The main facility at Topslip offers lodging and a starting point for elephant safaris and guided walks through different forest zones. Entry is allowed between 6 AM and 6 PM, with early morning hours offering the best chances for wildlife sightings.
More than 2000 plant species grow here, including around 400 with healing properties used by local communities. Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian elephants, and rare lion-tailed macaques share this habitat across different elevations.
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