Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Rajasthan, India. The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including various species of animals, birds, and plant life. The sanctuary is bounded on the west by the river Banas and on the south by the river Chambal.
The sanctuary derives its name from the Kaila Devi Temple, a significant religious site dedicated to the goddess Kaila Devi. The temple holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for local communities and attracts pilgrims from various parts of the region.
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is the northern extension of the Ranthambore National Park and falls within the buffer zone of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve.
Some of the wildlife species that can be found in the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary include leopards, tigers, sloth bears, hyenas, sambar deer, spotted deer, and a variety of bird species. The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for these animals and plays a crucial role in their conservation.
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Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Karauli district of the state of Rajasthan, India. It is situated in the southeastern part of Rajasthan, near the town of Karauli.
The sanctuary is nestled in the Aravalli Range, which is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India. It is situated right next the holy site of the Kaila Devi temple.
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is the Sanganer Airport (Jaipur International Airport) in Jaipur, Rajasthan. It is the largest and most well-connected airport in the region. Approximately 180-200 kilometers (about 112-124 miles) depending on the route taken.
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is the Gangapur City Junction Railway Station. It is well-connected to various cities in Rajasthan and other parts of India. Approximately 25-30 kilometers (about 15-19 miles) depending on the route taken.
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich history that is closely intertwined with the cultural and natural heritage of the region.
Cultural Significance: The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the Kaila Devi Temple, a significant religious site dedicated to the goddess Kaila Devi. The temple holds immense religious importance for the local communities and attracts pilgrims from various parts of the region.
Historical Context: The sanctuary area is located in the Aravalli Range, which has a history dating back thousands of years. The region has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations, and the landscape has been shaped by human activities over time.
Pre-Sanctuary Communities: Even prior to its formal declaration as a sanctuary on July 9, 1983, the expanse of forested land that now comprises the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary was intricately entwined with the lives of pastoral and agricultural communities. These communities, intricately linked to the land, found their sustenance and livelihood deeply rooted in the sanctuary's abundant resources.
Establishment: A significant juncture in conservation history, the formal establishment of the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary on July 9, 1983, underscored the commitment to preserving the intricate web of life within its bounds. This step was pivotal in recognizing the indispensable coexistence of local communities and the delicate ecosystems they inhabit
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary covers an approximate area of around 676 square kilometers (261 square miles).
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is situated within the Aravalli Range, a range of hills that stretches across western India, including Rajasthan. The sanctuary's landscape is characterized by these hills, which contribute to its diverse ecosystems and provide habitats for various flora and fauna.
The Aravalli Range itself is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India and plays a significant role in shaping the geography and ecology of the region. The hills within the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary add to its scenic beauty and create different types of habitats, ranging from dense forests to open grasslands, which support a wide variety of wildlife species.
These hills offer not only natural beauty but also serve as a vital part of the ecological balance within the sanctuary, providing water sources, shelter, and forage for the animals that call the area home. Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy the stunning vistas and unique landscapes that these hills create, making it a destination for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual solace at the Kaila Devi Temple.
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is bounded by two important rivers:
(1) River Banas:
The western boundary of the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is marked by the River Banas. The Banas River is a significant river in Rajasthan, flowing through various districts and playing a vital role in the region's water resources and ecosystems.
(2) River Chambal:
The southern boundary of the sanctuary is defined by the River Chambal. The Chambal River is one of the major rivers in northern India, flowing through multiple states and serving as a lifeline for both humans and wildlife along its course.
These rivers contribute to the sanctuary's ecological diversity by providing water sources, influencing vegetation patterns, and creating habitats for a variety of aquatic and terrestrial species.
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora, encompassing various ecosystems due to its location in the Aravalli Range. The sanctuary features a significant presence of dry deciduous forest.
Here are some of the types of flora you can find in the sanctuary:
- Dhok
- Khair
- Salar
- Juliflora
- Kadaya
- Dhak
- Gol
- Ber
- Khair,
- Bargad
- Arjun
- Gugal
- Bogambilya Spp.
- Adulsa Spp.
- Danda Thor
- Kakera
- Kheep
- Khejari
- Neem
- Babul
- Tendu
- Bamboo
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for which animal?
The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region. Here are some of the notable animal species that you might encounter within the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Sloth Bear
- Bluebull
- Sambar
- Spotted Deer
- Striped Hyaena
- Indian Porcupine
Birds:
- Graylag Goose
- Grey Hornbill
- Common Kingfisher
- Palm Swift
Reptiles:
- Indian Rock Python
- Desert Monitor Lizard
- Rat Snake
Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which district is Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Karauli district of the state of Rajasthan, India. The sanctuary is situated within this district and is known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its cultural and ecological significance.
Q. What is Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, housing a diverse range of plant and animal species. It provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, including predators like leopards and potentially tigers, as well as herbivores, birds, reptiles, and more.
(ii) Conservation Efforts: Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary is a dedicated conservation area, focusing on the protection and preservation of the diverse ecosystems and wildlife found within its boundaries. It serves as a critical refuge for various species in the midst of human-influenced landscapes.
(iii) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary's landscape is characterized by the Aravalli Range, creating picturesque hills, forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats. The natural beauty of the sanctuary makes it a destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and ecotourists.
(iv) Cultural Heritage: Beyond its ecological significance, the sanctuary holds cultural value due to its connection with the Kaila Devi Temple and the local communities that reside in the area. This intertwining of culture and nature makes the sanctuary a unique and multifaceted destination.
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