Wildlife in South India

Hemmed by western ghats from east and malabar hill coast from west, Kerala is one of the popular tourist destination of India. Thanks to its tranquil backwaters and silvery beaches, Kerala attract thousands of tourists every year. Apart from these natural treasures, Kerala is also famed for its excellent collection of diverse wildlife. The lush tropical rain forests of this south-Indian state is paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and provides a golden opportunity to view some endangered species. Some celebrated wildlife parks of Kerala are:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary

Beside its numerous ancient temples and crowded sandy beaches, Tamil Nadu has bountiful of charms within its kitty. One such amazing charm that beckons each and every traveller is its diverse wildlife. Topography of this wonderful south-Indian state plays a key role in nourishing these unique flora and fauna. Of the 1, 30, 058 sq km land area, 18 percent is covered with lush green forests, which spreads over the plains and mountain slopes. Some celebrated wildlife parks of Tamil Nadu are :

• Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary
• Viralimalai Sanctuary

Being one of the erstwhile princely state of South India, Karnataka has no dearth of natural and artificial charms. Apart from its opulent palaces, forts, and exotic gardens, Karnataka is also famous for its lush forested areas. Stretches from the evergreen forests of Western ghats to the scrub jungle of the plains, Karnataka boasts five national parks an 21 wildlife sanctuaries of India, within its territory. Diverse collection of fauna that includes some rare mammals, amphibians, avi-faunal and aquatic species. Some celebrated wildlife parks of Karnataka are:

• Nagarhole National Park
• Bannerghatta National Park
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Popularly known as ‘Kohinoor of India’, Andhra Pradesh is a state of immense natural beauty. Bounded by Bay of Bengal from east and Maharashtra, Chattisgrah, Orisssa, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka from various other directions, Andhra Pradesh is bestowed with varied range of plant and wildlife. The moist deciduous eastern ghat forests, dry deciduous forests of Nallamalais, the mangrove belt and the green coastal area provides shelter to some of the rare animals and birds species. Some celebrated wildlife parks of Andhra Pradesh are:

• Coringa Wild Life Sanctuary
• Alisagar Deer Park