Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Sikkim, in the northeastern part of the country. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, lush forests, and stunning natural landscapes.
The sanctuary is particularly famous for its rhododendron blooms during the spring season. These colorful flowers add to the visual appeal of the region.
Fambong Lho is notable for its avian diversity, with several species of birds, including the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Beautiful Nuthatch, and Red-breasted Hill-Partridge. The presence of these species underscores the importance of the sanctuary for bird conservation.
Visitors to the sanctuary have the opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the region, including the lush forests and the stunning views of the Khangchendzonga mountain range from the buffer area.
The best times to visit Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary are typically from March to late May and from September to mid-December when the weather is more favorable for exploration and wildlife observation.
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Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the East Sikkim district of Sikkim, India. It is situated approximately 20 kilometers (about 12 miles) away from Gangtok, which is the capital city of Sikkim.
The sanctuary is nestled in the mountainous terrain of the Eastern Himalayas. This location in the Himalayan region contributes to its unique and diverse biodiversity, making it an important conservation area and a destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is Bagdogra Airport, which is located in the neighboring Indian state of West Bengal, approximately 124 kilometers (about 77 miles) away from Gangtok, Sikkim. Gangtok is the nearest major city to the sanctuary, and visitors often arrive in Gangtok before traveling to the sanctuary.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station, Sikkim does not have its own railway network. The nearest major railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is also in the state of West Bengal and serves as a major railhead for the region. It is situated approximately 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) from Gangtok. From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, you can continue your journey to Gangtok and then to Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary by road.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary History
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary has a history closely tied to its establishment and conservation efforts. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Notification and Establishment: Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified as a protected area on April 2, 1984. This notification marked the formal establishment of the sanctuary as a conservation zone.
Local Heritage: The name "Fambong Lho" is believed to be derived from the Lepcha word "Hambomloh," which refers to the local avocado trees known as Machilus edulis and M. odoratissima. This name reflects the cultural and natural heritage of the area.
Tourism and Eco-Tourism: Over the years, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary has also gained recognition as a destination for eco-tourism. The sanctuary's natural beauty, trekking trails, and opportunities for wildlife and bird watching have attracted nature enthusiasts and tourists, contributing to local tourism.
Infrastructure Development: In order to promote sustainable tourism and provide better access to the sanctuary, infrastructure development projects, such as trekking trails and viewing points, have been initiated.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary covers an approximate area of 51.67 square kilometers (20 square miles). This sanctuary is relatively small in size but is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
Despite its modest area, it plays a crucial role in the conservation of flora and fauna in the Eastern Himalayan region and offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore its natural beauty and wildlife.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in a hilly and mountainous terrain in the Indian state of Sikkim. It is part of the Eastern Himalayas and is characterized by its hilly landscapes. The sanctuary encompasses a range of hills and peaks within its boundaries.
Some of the notable hills and peaks within or adjacent to the sanctuary include:
(1) Tinjure Peak:
injure Peak is the highest point within the sanctuary, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,750 meters (around 9,022 feet) above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a prominent feature of the sanctuary.
(2) Fambong Lho Peak:
This peak is another significant geographical feature within the sanctuary, and it is part of the mountain range that the sanctuary covers. Its elevation may vary, but it contributes to the sanctuary's overall hilly terrain.
(3) Ragorathai Peak:
Ragorathai Peak is also located within the sanctuary's mountainous terrain. It, along with other peaks, adds to the sanctuary's topographical diversity.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary River
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is not prominently associated with a river within its boundaries. However, it is situated in close proximity to the Rani Khola river, which is significant in the region.
The Rani Khola separates Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary from the Himalayan Zoological Park, which is situated above Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. These two conservation areas are in proximity, and the river forms a natural boundary between them.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
What is the flora of Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary?
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse flora, which includes a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. The sanctuary's rich vegetation contributes to its ecological significance and natural beauty. Here are some of the notable flora found in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary:
(1) Rhododendrons:
The sanctuary is known for its rhododendron species. These colorful and vibrant flowers bloom during the spring season, adding a burst of color to the landscape. Different species of rhododendrons can be found in various parts of the sanctuary.
(2) Wild Orchids:
Fambong Lho is home to numerous species of wild orchids. Orchid enthusiasts and botanists are drawn to the sanctuary to observe and study these exotic and delicate flowers.
(3) Broadleaf Trees:
The sanctuary's forests contain a mix of broadleaf trees, including species like oak, magnolia, and champa. These trees contribute to the overall forest canopy and provide habitat for various wildlife.
(4) Coniferous Trees:
In addition to broadleaf trees, conifers like pine and fir can also be found in the sanctuary's higher elevations. These evergreen trees are characteristic of the Himalayan region.
(5) Medicinal and Aromatic Plants:
The sanctuary is known to harbor many species of medicinal and aromatic plants. These plants have cultural and economic significance for the region's communities.
(6) Ferns and Mosses:
Ferns and mosses thrive in the moist and humid environment of the sanctuary, particularly in areas with higher precipitation.
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
What animals are found in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary?
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including mammals, birds, and other wildlife species. The sanctuary's rich biodiversity is one of its key attractions for nature enthusiasts and conservationists. Here are some of the notable fauna found in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- Masked Palm Civet
- Barking Deer
- Asiatic Black Bear
- Chinese Pangolin
- Red Panda
- Leopard-Cat
- Hodgson’s Flying Squirrel
Birds:
- Satyr Tragopan
- Khalij Pheasant
- White-browed Fulvetta
- Scarlet Finch
- Mountain Imperial Pigeon
- Slaty-headed Parakeet
- Red-winged crested Cuckoo
- Large Green-billed Malkoha
- Blue-naped Pitta
- Orange-bellied Chloropsis
- Brown Dipper
- Spotted Forktail
- Nepal House Martin
Reptiles:
- Glass Lizard
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. What is the Fambong LHO Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons, including its unique natural features, biodiversity, and the experiences it offers to visitors. Here are some of the key aspects for which Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned:
(i) Rich Biodiversity: The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. It provides habitat for animals such as the red panda, Asiatic black bear, and various pheasants, making it a significant conservation area.
(ii) Rhododendron Blooms: Fambong Lho is famous for its rhododendron blooms during the spring season (March to May). These colorful flowers cover the landscape and attract nature enthusiasts and photographers.
(iii) Wild Orchids: The sanctuary is home to numerous species of wild orchids, making it a hotspot for orchid enthusiasts and botanists.
(iv) Birdwatching: Fambong Lho is a birdwatcher's paradise, with a wide variety of bird species, including the rare Satyr Tragopan and Khalij Pheasant. Birdwatchers flock to the sanctuary to observe and photograph these avian treasures.
(v) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary offers stunning views of the Khangchendzonga mountain range and the surrounding landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas. It is a place of natural beauty and serenity.
(vi) Trekking and Hiking: Fambong Lho has a network of trekking trails, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty on foot. These treks vary in difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced trekkers.
(vii) Cultural Heritage: The sanctuary's name, "Fambong Lho," reflects the cultural heritage of the region, with its roots in the Lepcha language and the local avocado trees.
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