Ulipooni wildlife sanctuary : Hidden gem waiting to be explored

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the southern part of India, in the state of Tamil Nadu, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This sanctuary covers an area of 400 sq km and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. The sanctuary’s unique location at the confluence of three rivers and its surrounding hills provide a stunning backdrop for a range of activities, including jeep safaris, treks, and waterfall visits. We explore here, the sanctuary’s geography, flora and fauna, activities, accommodation options, and the best time to visit. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary.

Location and Geography

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern part of India, in the state of Tamil Nadu, near the border with Kerala. The sanctuary is situated at the confluence of three rivers, the Bhavani, Moyar, and Siruvani, and is surrounded by the Nilgiri Hills on one side and the Anamalai Hills on the other.

The sanctuary’s geography is characterized by dense forests, grasslands, waterfalls, and hills. The sanctuary’s altitude varies from 400m to 1400m above sea level, resulting in a range of climatic conditions. The sanctuary experiences tropical and subtropical climate conditions, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The monsoon season occurs between June and September, bringing heavy rainfall and adding to the sanctuary’s natural beauty.

The sanctuary is divided into two regions, the upper region and the lower region. The upper region is mostly covered by dense forests and is home to several waterfalls, including the Catherine Falls and the Siruvani Waterfalls. The lower region consists of grasslands and is an ideal place for trekking and hiking.

Overall, the sanctuary’s geography offers a unique mix of landscapes, providing a diverse range of habitats for the various plant and animal species that call it home.

Flora and Fauna

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it one of the most significant biodiversity hotspots in Tamil Nadu. The sanctuary is home to over 250 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, and several species of reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

The sanctuary’s dense forests are dominated by species such as teak, sandalwood, rosewood, and bamboo. The grasslands are characterized by species such as elephant grass and wildflowers. The sanctuary’s unique location at the confluence of three rivers has also resulted in the growth of several aquatic plants.

The sanctuary’s animal population includes several big cats such as tigers and leopards, which are elusive but can be spotted on jeep safaris. Other notable mammals found in the sanctuary include elephants, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, and Indian bison. The sanctuary is also home to several primate species such as bonnet macaques and Nilgiri langurs.

As mentioned earlier, the sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some of the notable species found in the sanctuary include the grey junglefowl, Malabar trogon, Malabar whistling thrush, and the black and orange flycatcher. The sanctuary is also home to several species of reptiles, including the king cobra, common krait, and Indian rock python.

Overall, the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors are sure to be amazed by the sanctuary’s natural beauty and the range of species found within it.

Activities at Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary Vagamon

There are several activities to enjoy while visiting Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary near Vagamon, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Some of the activities include:

Jeep safaris: Visitors can take jeep safaris through the sanctuary to spot the various species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and more. The jeep safaris are led by experienced guides who provide insightful information about the sanctuary’s flora and fauna.

Trekking: The sanctuary’s lower region is an ideal place for trekking and hiking, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. There are several trekking routes, varying in difficulty and duration, making it accessible to all types of trekkers.

Waterfall visits: The sanctuary is home to several waterfalls, including the Catherine Falls and the Siruvani Waterfalls. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters or enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning scenery.

Birdwatching: As mentioned earlier, the sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. Visitors can take guided walks or hikes to spot some of the 250 species of birds found in the sanctuary.

Photography: With the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna and stunning landscapes, it’s an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts.

Overall, the sanctuary offers a range of activities that cater to different interests and fitness levels, making it a perfect destination for families and groups of friends.

Accommodation

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Some of the accommodation options include:

Forest Guest House: The Forest Guest House is located within the sanctuary and offers basic accommodation facilities. Visitors can book rooms in advance by contacting the Forest Department.

Treehouses: Visitors can experience a unique stay by booking a treehouse in the sanctuary. The treehouses offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and are equipped with basic amenities.

Resorts: Several resorts are located in and around the sanctuary, offering a range of amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and restaurants.

Homestays: Visitors can also opt for homestays with local families, providing an authentic experience of the local culture and way of life.

Overall, the sanctuary’s accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. It’s recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is between the months of October and May, when the weather is pleasant and dry. During this period, visitors can enjoy the sanctuary’s natural beauty and engage in various activities, such as trekking, wildlife safaris, and birdwatching.

The winter months of December to February are the peak season, and visitors may need to book accommodation and activities in advance. The weather during this period is chilly, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.

The monsoon season occurs between June and September, and the sanctuary receives heavy rainfall during this period. The sanctuary remains closed to visitors during the monsoon season due to safety concerns.

Overall, the best time to visit Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter and spring months, when the weather is pleasant, and visitors can engage in various activities.

Conclusion

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse flora and fauna, range of activities, and comfortable accommodation options, visitors can enjoy a memorable experience in Tamil Nadu.