Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is a high altitude Sanctuary located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, pristine landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna.
The sanctuary is named after the Tirthan River, which flows through the region and adds to its natural beauty. It is situated within the Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area and is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Western Himalayas.
The sanctuary also offers opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and experiencing the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayan region.
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Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Western Himalayas and is a part of the Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area. The sanctuary encompasses the Tirthan River valley and the surrounding mountains and forests.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhuntar Airport (also known as Kullu-Manali Airport). This airport serves the Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh and is the closest major airport to the sanctuary. From Bhuntar Airport, you would need to travel by road (Approximately 50-60 kilometers) to reach the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary.
Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is Joginder Nagar Railway Station (Approximately 150-160 kilometers). However, please note that the railway connectivity to this region is limited and the station might not be well-connected to major cities. Most visitors prefer to travel to the region by road.
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary has a history tied to conservation efforts and the protection of the region's unique biodiversity.
1. Formation and Establishment: In 1976, the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary was established to protect the diverse flora and fauna of the Tirthan River valley and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. It is a part of the larger Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area and is known for its ecological significance.
2. Recognition and UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Great Himalayan National Park, which encompasses the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This recognition highlights the area's importance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
3. Tourism and Sustainable Development: Over the years, the sanctuary has attracted tourists interested in experiencing its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities such as trekking and bird watching. Efforts have been made to promote ecotourism and sustainable practices to ensure that tourism contributes to the conservation of the area.
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses an area of approximately 61.7 square kilometers (about 23.8 square miles). This area includes the Tirthan River valley and the surrounding forested hills in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the Tirthan River, which flows through the sanctuary and is a significant feature of the region. The Tirthan River is one of the major tributaries of the Beas River and originates from the glaciers of the Great Himalayan National Park. It meanders through the sanctuary, cutting through the picturesque landscape of the Tirthan River Valley.
The Tirthan River is known for its clear and cold waters, which are fed by the melting snow and glaciers of the surrounding mountains. The river is home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including various species of fish, making it a popular destination for trout fishing.
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
Different forest types present in the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary's diverse range of altitudes contributes to a variety of forest ecosystems, each supporting unique flora and fauna. Here's a bit more detail about the mentioned forest types:
(1) Ban Oak Forest:
Ban oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) is a dominant tree species in this type of forest. Ban oak forests are found at lower altitudes and provide important habitats for various wildlife species.
(2) Moist Deodar Forest:
Deodar (Cedrus deodara) is a coniferous tree that thrives in this type of forest. These forests are characterized by their dense cover of deodar trees and are typically found at moderate altitudes.
(3) Western Mixed Coniferous Forest:
This forest type consists of a mix of different coniferous tree species, such as blue pine (Pinus wallichiana), chir pine (Pinus roxburghii), and other conifers. It's often found in mid-altitude areas.
(4) Moist Temperate Deciduous Forest:
Moist temperate deciduous forests feature a variety of broadleaf trees and are typical of areas with relatively higher moisture levels. Oak species might also be present in this type of forest.
(5) Kharsu Oak Forest:
Kharsu oak (Quercus semecarpifolia) dominates this type of forest. These forests are often found at higher altitudes and are important habitats for wildlife adapted to the alpine environment.
(6) Alpine Pastures:
As you move to higher elevations, you'll encounter alpine pastures or meadows. These areas are characterized by a mix of grasses, herbs, and low-growing vegetation that provide foraging grounds for various herbivores.
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Mammals:
- Snow Leopard
- Blue Sheep or Bharal
- Musk Deer
- Himalayan Tahr
- Barking Deer
- Ibex
- Serow
- Leopard
- Brown Bear
- Asiatic Black Bear
- Common Giant Flying Squirrel
- Kashmir Flying Squirrel
- Stone Marten
- Himalayan Weasel
- Golden Jackal
- Langur
Birds:
- Western Tragopan
- Cheer Pheasant
- Himalayan or Impeyan Monal
- Koklass Pheasant
- Red Junglefowl
Reptiles:
- Snakes
- Lizards
Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which district is Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Kullu is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, valleys, and mountains, and the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary adds to the natural beauty and ecological significance of the district.
Q. What is the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons, primarily related to its natural beauty, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. Here are some of the key aspects for which the sanctuary is renowned:
(i) Rich Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including various species of mammals, birds, insects, and aquatic life. Its varied altitudes and ecosystems contribute to the high levels of biodiversity found within its boundaries.
(ii) Unique Flora and Fauna: The sanctuary's distinct forest types and habitats support a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the Himalayan region. Species such as Himalayan brown bears, Himalayan tahr, and Himalayan monal pheasants are highlights of the sanctuary's wildlife.
(iii) Scenic Beauty: The Tirthan River Valley, which the sanctuary encompasses, is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush forests, meadows, and pristine river. The scenic beauty of the sanctuary attracts nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and photographers.
(iv) Conservation and UNESCO Recognition: The Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the area's importance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
(v) Ecotourism and Outdoor Activities: The sanctuary offers opportunities for eco-friendly tourism and various outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, bird watching, and fishing. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and serenity of the Himalayan environment.
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