Anshi National Park UPSC

Anshi National Park is a popular protected area located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is situated adjacent to the Kali River. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a significant wildlife destination in Karnataka.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
River
Waterfall
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Anshi National Park Location

Anshi National Park is indeed a beautiful and significant protected area located in Joida and Karwar Taluks of Uttara Kannada Districts in Karnataka, India. It is an integral part of the Kali Tiger Reserve, contributing to the conservation efforts of the tiger population.

Being one of the two protected areas in North Karnataka, alongside the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, it holds great ecological importance in the region. Together, they form the Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve.

Nearest Airport:

Dharwad airport is located at a distance of 106 km from the park.
The Belgaum airport is 150 km away from the Anshi National Park.

Nearest Railway Station:

There are three railway stations near the park.

Kanwar railway station at a distance of 60 km from the park.
Londa railway station which is 100 km away from the park.
Dharwad railway station, located approximately 106 km from the park.

Anshi National Park History

Anshi National Park has a relatively short but significant history. Here's an overview of the park's history:

1. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (DWS) Establishment: On May 10, 1956, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the central portion of the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India. It was initially established to protect the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

2. Proposal and Establishment of Anshi National Park: On September 2, 1987, the state proposed carving out a section of the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to create Anshi National Park. The proposal was implemented, and the original park covered an area of 250 square kilometers. The final notification in 2002 expanded the park by an additional 90 square kilometers.

3. Project Tiger Status: In January 2007, both Anshi National Park (339.866 sq km) and Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (475.018 sq km) were together granted the status of tiger reserve under Project Tiger. They were collectively referred to as the 'Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve.'

4. Name Change: In December 2015, the Anshi Dandeli Tiger Reserve was rebranded as the Kali Tiger Reserve, emphasizing the importance of the Kali River that connects Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi National Park.

The rebranding of Dandeli Anshi Tiger Reserve as Kali Tiger Reserve aimed to give the reserve a distinct identity and draw attention to the significance of the Kali River, which serves as a lifeline for the inhabitants of the Uttara Kannada district.

Anshi National Park Area

Anshi National Park covers a total area of approximately 339.866 square kilometers (131.19 square miles). The park is part of the larger Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve, which includes the adjoining Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (475.018 km2). It is situated at a height of 200 m to 925 m above sea level.

Anshi National Park's extensive area encompasses diverse habitats, including dense forests, bamboo groves, and other vegetation types. As one of the two protected areas in North Karnataka, along with Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Anshi National Park plays a crucial role in the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of the Western Ghats ecosystem.

Anshi National Park River

Anshi National Park is traversed by several rivers and streams, which contribute to its ecological richness and provide water resources for the park's flora and fauna. The prominent river that flows through Anshi National Park is the Kali River.

The Kali River is a major watercourse that originates in the Western Ghats and flows through the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It serves as a lifeline for the inhabitants of the region and plays a crucial role in the park's ecosystem.

The Kali River forms a natural boundary between Anshi National Park and the adjoining Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. It provides a vital water source for the wildlife within the park and supports diverse aquatic life, including fish and other aquatic species.

The river's flow and the surrounding riparian habitat contribute to the park's overall biodiversity. It also offers scenic beauty, especially in areas where the river meanders through the park, creating picturesque landscapes.

The Kali River and its associated streams and tributaries provide opportunities for visitors to engage in activities such as boating, river rafting, and wildlife observation along the riverbanks.

Anshi National Park Waterfall

Anshi National Park, located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, is blessed with numerous water bodies, including rivers, streams, and waterfalls.

(1) Magod Falls:

Located near the village of Magod in the Uttara Kannada district, Magod Falls is a stunning waterfall formed by the River Debti. The waterfall plunges down from a height of approximately 200 meters, creating a mesmerizing sight. The cascading waters and the misty atmosphere around the falls contribute to its scenic appeal. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the waterfall and immerse themselves in the serene ambiance of the surroundings.

(2) Shivaganga Falls:

Situated in the dense green forests of the Anshi National Park region, Shivaganga Falls is fed by the River Sonda. The waterfall offers a picturesque setting, with the waters splashing and meandering across the landscape. The lush vegetation surrounding the falls adds to its natural beauty. Tourists can enjoy a charming experience while witnessing the graceful flow of water amidst the tranquil forest environment.

Anshi National Park Flora

What is the flora of Anshi National Park?

Anshi National Park is known for its rich and diverse flora. The park encompasses a wide range of vegetation types, owing to its location in the Western Ghats, which is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot.

Here are some of the key elements of the flora found in Anshi National Park:

Calophyllum wightianum: Also known as the Punnaga tree, Calophyllum wightianum is a species of evergreen tree that is native to the Western Ghats. It is valued for its timber and is known for its beautiful white flowers.

Knema attenuata: Knema attenuata is a species of tree found in the Western Ghats. It has aromatic leaves and is known for its medicinal properties.

Malabar tamarind: The Malabar tamarind, also known as Garcinia cambogia, is a fruit-bearing tree native to the Western Ghats. It is known for its culinary and medicinal uses.

Silver oak: Silver oak, scientifically known as Grevillea robusta, is a large tree with silver-gray foliage. It is valued for its timber and is often planted as an ornamental tree.

Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that is widely distributed in Anshi National Park. It is an important resource for various purposes, including construction, handicrafts, and as a food source for wildlife.

Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is a genus of trees that includes many species with diverse characteristics. They are known for their aromatic leaves and fast growth. Some species of eucalyptus have been introduced to the region for commercial purposes.

Bauhinia: Bauhinia is a genus of flowering plants that includes several species with distinct leaf structures. They produce attractive flowers and are valued for their ornamental value.

Artocarpus lacucha: Artocarpus lacucha, commonly known as monkey jack, is a species of evergreen tree found in the Western Ghats. It produces edible fruits and is known for its timber.

Teak: Teak, also known as Tectona grandis, is a species of large deciduous tree known for its high-quality timber and durability.

Flacourtia montana: Flacourtia montana is a species of flowering tree found in the Western Ghats. It produces edible fruits and is known for its medicinal properties.

Jamba: Jamba, also known as Syzygium cumini or Indian blackberry, is a fruit-bearing tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It produces small, purple to black fruits called "jambul" that are often used in culinary preparations and traditional medicine.

Garcinia morella: Garcinia morella, commonly known as Indian gamboge, is a species of Garcinia tree native to India and Southeast Asia. It produces small yellow fruits that have culinary and medicinal uses. The tree is also valued for its resin, known as gamboge, which is used in traditional medicine and as a coloring agent.

Bintangur: Bintangur, scientifically known as Calophyllum inophyllum, is a medium-sized evergreen tree. It is known for its glossy leaves and red or yellow flowers. The tree produces round fruits that contain seeds used for oil extraction. The oil is known for its various applications, including in traditional medicine and cosmetics.

Ainimaram: Ainimaram, also known as Nuxia congesta, is a species of flowering tree or shrub found in the Western Ghats. It has dark green leaves and produces clusters of small white or pink flowers. The tree is valued for its ornamental beauty and is often planted in gardens and parks.

Carallia brachiata: Carallia brachiata, commonly known as Indian wild olive, is a medium-sized evergreen tree found in the Western Ghats. It has shiny leaves and small, fragrant white flowers. The tree produces small, spherical fruits that are edible and have medicinal properties.

Anshi National Park Fauna (Anshi National Park Animals)

Anshi National Park is famous for which animal?/Which animal is protected in Anshi National Park?

Anshi National Park is home to a diverse range of fauna. The park's varied habitats, including deciduous forests, evergreen forests, and riparian areas, support a wide array of animal species.

Here are some notable examples of the fauna found in Anshi National Park:

Mammals:

Tigers
Elephants
leopard
Black Panthers
Bonnet Macaque
Malabar Civet
Malabar giant squirrel
Indian Bison
Pangolin
Sloth Bear
Spotted Deer
Sambar
Barking Deer
Mouse deer
Common langur
Sloth Bear
Jungle Cat
Leopard Cat
Indian Giant Squirrel
Flying Squirrel
Indian Grey Mongoose
Porcupine
Jackal
Indian Wild Boar

Birds:

Adjutant Stork
Ashy Black-crested Crested Serpent Eagle
Great Hornbill
Golden-backed Woodpecker
Bulbul, Blue-headed Pitta
Brahminy Kite
Broad-billed Roller
Malabar Pied Hornbill
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Asian Fairy Bluebird
Black-crested Bulbul
Blue-headed Pitta
Ceylon Frogmouth
Crested Serpent Eagle

Reptiles:

King Cobra
Spectacled Cobra
Russell's Viper
Saw-scaled Viper
Vine Snake
Bamboo Pit Viper
Krait
Python
Rat Snake