Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated within the high-altitude Trans-Himalayan region, this sanctuary has earned its fame for a multitude of reasons.
Notably, it stands as a haven for various species, including the elusive feral yaks, a species rarely encountered across India. The sanctuary's biodiversity extends beyond these majestic animals, encompassing an array of wildlife uniquely adapted to the rugged terrain.
The sanctuary's distinction as an Important Bird Area (IBA) underscores its role as a sanctuary for avian life, particularly those that thrive in the challenging Trans-Himalayan biome.
With its invaluable contribution to conservation efforts, potential for research, and prospects for eco-friendly tourism, the Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a beacon of both ecological significance and human connection to the natural world in one of India's most breathtaking landscapes.
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Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated approximately 28 km away from the nearest town, Morang. The sanctuary is part of the Moorang Tehsil of Pooh Subdivision within the Kinnaur District.
The sanctuary can be reached by a motorable road up to the village of Jangi, and from there, visitors typically continue on foot. The sanctuary is situated along the Taiti stream, which is a tributary of the Sutlej River.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest major airport to Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is likely the Shimla Airport (also known as Jubbarhatti Airport), located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The distance between Shimla Airport and Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 250-270 kilometers by road.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is Shimla Railway Station. However, it's important to note that the Shimla Railway is a narrow-gauge line that primarily connects Shimla with Kalka. From Kalka, you can access broader rail networks that connect to other major cities. The distance between Shimla Railway Station and Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is also around 250-270 kilometers by road.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary History
Establishment: Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in the year 1974. This means that the government of Himachal Pradesh or relevant authorities recognized the ecological significance of the area and took steps to legally designate it as a protected wildlife sanctuary.
Important Bird Area (IBA): The sanctuary has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), signifying its significance in supporting various bird species, especially those adapted to the Trans-Himalayan biome.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 30.89 square kilometers (km²). The sanctuary's relatively small but ecologically diverse size is dedicated to conserving the unique ecosystem, flora, and fauna found in the high-altitude region of the Trans-Himalayas.
The varied elevations within this area contribute to the presence of distinct habitats and a rich diversity of plant and animal life. The altitude of the sanctuary ranges from around 3000 meters to 5122 meters above sea level, offering a unique and diverse landscape in the Trans-Himalayan region.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is situated along the Taiti stream, which is a tributary of the Sutlej River. This stream flows through the sanctuary and contributes to the overall ecology of the area. The presence of a water source like the Taiti stream is significant for the diverse flora and fauna found within the sanctuary, as it provides water for the resident wildlife and supports various plant species.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by a diverse range of flora, which is influenced by its high-altitude location in the Trans-Himalayan region. The sanctuary's varying elevations, different climatic conditions, and topographical features contribute to the presence of different plant communities.
Here are some of the main types of flora found in the Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary:
(1) Dry Alpine Scrub:
This type of vegetation is adapted to the harsh conditions of high altitudes and consists of low-growing shrubs and hardy plants that can withstand cold temperatures, strong winds, and limited moisture.
(2) Dry Coniferous Forests:
These forests are dominated by coniferous trees that have adapted to the cold and dry conditions of the region. Species such as pine, spruce, and fir trees may be present in these forests.
(3) Dwarf Juniper Scrub:
Juniper shrubs are well-suited to arid and high-altitude environments. These shrubs are often low-growing and can form dense stands, providing habitat and shelter for various wildlife.
(4) Temperate Forests of the Himalayan Region:
Depending on the specific elevation and conditions, the sanctuary might also have patches of temperate forests that are typical of the Himalayan region. These forests may include a mix of broadleaf trees and conifers.
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammal and bird species that have adapted to the unique high-altitude environment of the Trans-Himalayas.
Here are some of the notable fauna species that can be found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Yak
- Asiatic Black Bear
- Brown Bear
- Musk Deer
- Goral
- Ibex
- Blue Sheep
Birds:
- Golden Eagle
- Himalayan Vulture
- Snow Partridge
- Himalayan Monal
- Alpine Accentor
- Lammergeier
- Himalayan Snowcock
Reptiles:
- Himalayan Pit Viper
- Common Skink
Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which state is Lippa Asra Wildlife Sanctuary located?
A. The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and high-altitude regions in the Trans-Himalayan range.
Q. What is the Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?/What is Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary located in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh is mainly famous for?
A. The Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) High-Altitude Ecosystem: The sanctuary is renowned for being situated in the high-altitude Trans-Himalayan region, which contributes to its unique ecosystem, diverse habitats, and specialized flora and fauna.
(ii) Feral Yaks: Lippa Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is known for being one of the few places in India where feral yaks have been reported. Yaks are large, iconic animals adapted to cold and mountainous environments.
(iii) Biodiversity: The sanctuary hosts a variety of wildlife species adapted to the challenging high-altitude environment, including bears, musk deer, goral, ibex, blue sheep, and various bird species. Its biodiversity is of ecological and conservation importance.
(iv) Important Bird Area (IBA): The sanctuary holds the distinction of being designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), underscoring its importance in providing a habitat for a diverse range of bird species, particularly those well-suited to the unique conditions of the Trans-Himalayan biome.
(v) Ecotourism Potential: The sanctuary's natural beauty and diverse wildlife offer potential for sustainable ecotourism, allowing visitors to appreciate and learn about the region's unique ecology while contributing to conservation efforts.
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