Are you a wildlife lover who dreams of seeing the majestic tigers in their natural habitat? Do you want to explore the rich biodiversity and the stunning landscapes of one of the largest and most diverse wildlife sanctuaries in India? If yes, then you should definitely visit the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, a wildlife paradise in Tamil Nadu.
In this article, we will explore the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, its role in tiger conservation, its scenic beauty and activities, and how to plan your visit to this amazing national park in Tamil Nadu.
Role in Tiger Conservation
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is one of the most important protected areas for tigers in India. It covers an area of 1,411.6 sq km and forms a vital link between the Eastern and the Western Ghats, creating a continuous habitat for the tigers and other wildlife.
The reserve was declared a tiger reserve in 2013, after a remarkable increase in the tiger population due to the conservation efforts of the forest department and the local communities. According to the latest census, the reserve has 68 tigers, making it the fourth largest tiger habitat in India.
The reserve also supports a variety of other wildlife, such as elephants, leopards, gaurs, sloth bears, wild dogs, hyenas, deer, monkeys, and more than 230 species of birds. The reserve is home to some rare and endangered species, such as the grizzled giant squirrel, the Nilgiri tahr, the Nilgiri langur, and the four-horned antelope.
The reserve also promotes ecotourism and community participation in the conservation and management of the wildlife and the habitat. Visitors can contribute to the ecotourism programs and initiatives by paying a nominal fee, hiring a local guide, buying local products, and respecting the wildlife and the culture of the region.
Scenery and Activities
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is not only a wildlife haven, but also a scenic wonderland. The reserve boasts of diverse landscapes, ranging from dry deciduous forests to moist evergreen forests, from grasslands to rocky outcrops, from rivers to waterfalls. The reserve offers a spectacular view of the hills, valleys, and plains of the region.
The reserve also offers a variety of activities and adventures for the visitors, such as:
1. Wildlife safaris:
The best way to experience the wildlife of the reserve is to take a safari in a jeep or a bus, accompanied by a trained guide. The safaris are conducted in the morning and evening, and last for about three hours. The safaris are a great opportunity to spot the tigers and other animals, as well as to enjoy the scenic beauty of the reserve.
2. Walking tours:
For those who love to walk and explore the nature, the reserve offers walking tours along the designated trails, with the permission of the forest department. The walking tours are a chance to observe the flora and fauna of the reserve, as well as to learn about the history and culture of the region.
3. Bird watching:
The reserve is a paradise for bird watchers, as it hosts more than 230 species of birds, including some rare and endemic ones. The reserve has several bird watching spots, where visitors can see the colorful and melodious birds, such as the Malabar grey hornbill, the Malabar whistling thrush, the Nilgiri flycatcher, and the Nilgiri wood pigeon.
4. Camping:
For those who want to experience the wilderness and the night life of the reserve, camping is an option. The reserve has a few camping sites, where visitors can pitch their tents and enjoy the starry sky and the sounds of the forest. The camping sites are equipped with basic facilities, such as toilets, water, and electricity. The camping is subject to the availability and the approval of the forest department.
5. Photography:
The reserve is a photographer’s delight, as it offers a plethora of subjects and scenes to capture. The reserve is a perfect place to photograph the wildlife, the landscapes, the sunrises and sunsets, and the local people and their lifestyle.
How to Reach
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is located in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu, and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air.
By air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore, which is about 70 km away from the reserve.
By train: The nearest railway station is Erode, which is about 60 km away from the reserve. The nearest bus station is Sathyamangalam, which is about 10 km away from the reserve.
By road: The reserve can be reached by hiring a taxi or a private vehicle from the airport, railway station, or bus station. The reserve has four entry points, namely Hasanur, Thalavadi, Bhavanisagar, and Kadambur. The entry fees, permits, and timings for visiting the reserve are as follows:
Entry fee: Rs. 50 per person for Indians, Rs. 300 per person for foreigners, Rs. 25 per person for students, Rs. 150 per vehicle for Indians, Rs. 500 per vehicle for foreigners.
Permit: Required for all visitors, and can be obtained from the forest department offices at the entry points or online.
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm, all days of the week.
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers and ecotourists who want to witness the majestic tigers and other animals in their natural habitat, enjoy the scenic beauty and the adventure options, and support the conservation and the local communities in Tamil Nadu.
If you are interested in visiting the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, don’t wait any longer and book your trip today.
