Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is the protected area of the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, India. It is rich in flora, fauna, and beautiful landscapes, attracting naturalists, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers. Part of the Western Ghats and identified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands among the largest ecological zones of India. Apart from the several luxuriant forests and incredible diversity in wildlife, it is especially known because of the importance attached to its conservation of some endangered species. Besides, the partial covering of the Brahmagiri Hills gives it an aesthetic beauty besides great trekking and nature walking opportunities.  There is a wealth of biodiversity as the place is one of the popular spots. The geography of Pushpagiri ranges from dense rain tropical evergreen forests and semi-evergreen forests to the extent of the shola grasslands. In this case, the wide variety of flora and fauna is thus supported. This site is the major hub for managing and conservating Western Ghats Flora and Fauna. This falls under the Brahmagiri Wildlife Range, and coordination of activities in conservation occurs with other protected areas like Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Its role in preserving biodiversity is known worldwide mainly because  of  its location in the Western Ghats,  a hotspot for biodiversity. 

 Various  conservation works are happening in Pushpagiri to protect its fauna and natural resources. The first initiative applied is about anti-poaching programs,  restoration of habitat , and right management of forests. Those dense forests maintained in the sanctuaries have been maintained properly by forest guards  regarding  the protection of the wild wildlife population and its proper management. Apart from these, this sanctuary supports the preservation of other species under threat. These species- the Nilgiri Tahr, the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Western Ghats Hornbill - are identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature  as  'priority' species. 

Pushpagiri is one of the adventure destinations , with trekking being the most likeable activity.  Hundreds of trekking trails around the sanctuary  allow visitors to move through dense forests , grassy hills , and beneath waterfalls. Such treks allow viewing the sanctuary's wild in very close proximity amidst the glory of the Western Ghats. Probably, the most frequently visited peak during a trek in the refuge is the 1,715-meter-tall Pushpagiri Peak. The trek is not too arduous; travellers pass through dense forests and steepling ascents to wonderful panoramic views of hills and valleys. However, the best approach is always by way of a guide since this might be pretty tough on the terrain. There are bird watching, nature walks, and photography. It is a perfect destination for the eco-tourist and nature lovers can spend days exploring the trails of the sanctuary, thanks to the richness of flora and fauna. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT PUSHPAGIRI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY :

November to February brings  a beautiful cool climate , which happens to be ideal conditions for trekking and other activities outside; active wildlife and clear skies, thus perfecting the requirements for birding. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is surely one of the true jewels of the Western Ghats , combining rich biodiversity, scenery, and adventure . This sanctuary has played a very important role in conserving the flora and fauna of the region and provides habitat to many endangered species. It is ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts due to its densely forested, varied wildlife and trekking routes. Whether you want to trek into virgin forests, see some of the rarest species of birds or bask in the majesty of the Western Ghats. 

PLACES TO VISIT AROUND THE LOCALITY: 

1. Iruppu Falls (10 km from Pushpagiri): A beautiful waterfall in the Brahmagiri Hills. Iruppu Falls is one of the most visited spots during the rains. It is a heavy waterfall and there are immense forests around it. People consider the place sacred. 

2. Talakaveri (25 km from Pushpagiri): Place of origin of the river Kaveri, a religious centre for the Hindus and Talakaveri, an excellent spot for Brahmagiri Hills and scenery by the valley. A pretty vision of the holy water tank of the temple 

3. Abbey Falls (38 km from Pushpagiri): One of the popular waterfalls of Karnataka is Abbey Falls. This is located in a coffee plantation. The falling water looks very beautiful during the fully-fledged monsoons. 

4. Nisargadhama (45 km from Pushpagiri): Nisargadhama is an island off the Kaveri River, providing a green patch with many bamboo groves, a deer park, and a hanging bridge. It is an ideal destination for very quiet picnics and nature walks. 

5. Raja's Seat (50 km from Pushpagiri): Raja's Seat is one of the most famous viewpoints in Madikeri. Kings of Kodavas sit here to see the sunset during the olden days. 

6. Madikeri Fort (48 km from Pushpagiri): The 17th-century Kodava kings built a fort, which now gives an idea about the history of the region; Madikeri Fort has been renovated Time and again, and it is currently acting like a museum. 

7. Omkareshwara Temple (48 km from Pushpagiri): This is the temple of the 19th century to Lord Shiva, and its architectural style is attractive due to its Gothic-Islamic style. It is located at Madikeri and it's a sacred temple. 

8. Tadiandamol Peak (38 km from Pushpagiri): Tadiandamol Peak is Coorg's highest peak and has great trekking options. From atop, one gets spectacular views of the Western Ghats and coffee plantations. 

9. Pushpagiri Hill (Located near Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary): Pushpagiri Peak is a trekker's paradise. This falls within the sanctuary and there are majestic views of Brahmagiri Hills. The treks are moderately tough as well as through lush forests. 

10. Lgguthappa Temple (60 km from Pushpagiri): This sacred pilgrimage centre for the Kodava community is dedicated to Lord Igguthappa, situated at Kushalnagar. 

HOW TO REACH: 

• By Air: It is located in Coorg district, Karnataka. The nearest airports are Mangalore International Airport, 150 km, and Bangalore Kempegowda International Airport another at a distance of 270 km. Taxis or buses may be hired from airports to reach the sanctuary. 

• By Train: The nearest towns are Madikeri and Virajpet. From the railway stations at Mysuru and Kannur, both 120 km/130 km away, a taxi can be hired or a bus taken. 

• By Road: The sanctuary is fairly well connected to the towns. It is approximately 38 km from Madikeri, which would take 1.5-2 hours. Virajpet is approximately 22 km and would take nearly 45 minutes. One can hire private taxis or buses from Mysuru, Bangalore, or Mangalore to get there. Public buses from the town nearest to the sanctuary are available, too, from Virajpet and Madikeri. 

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