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In Nature's own reserve

M.Ananth

The Western Ghats, extending from Maharashtra to Kerala, are well-covered by rain forests on both sides. Closer to the Equator, the forest cover is dense and home to a variety of flora and fauna. Since the Western Ghats form a continuous chain, the fores ts receive copious rainfall in June-September. All this make the ghats a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Several east-flowing rivers originate in the Western Ghats including perennial ones such as the Cauvery and the Tamaraparani, as also some west-flowing rivers in Kerala. And, of course, fast-flowing streams abound.

In tiger country

While sanctuaries such as Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu) and Bandipur (Karnataka) attract tourists in large numbers because they are accessible, and close to popular destinations such as the Nilgiris and Mysore, there are several reserves in the South not too we ll-known but definitely worth a visit.

One such beautiful destination is the Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district. Better known as Mundanthurai, the first Forest Rest House was built here in 1892. This rest house, renovated in 1998, is a two-storey colonial building built on the Tamaraparani, with steps leading down to the river. The ambience and the quiet are by themselves enough but the wildlife -- mainly deer, wild boar, rabbits and monkeys -- make it memorable. Of course, the crowning glory would be if one is lucky enough to catch the tiger.The sanctuary is close to the Servalar hydro-electric project and the setting is beautiful.

Ahead is the Karayar dam on the Tamaraparani, 15 km from the Kalakkad-Mundanthurai tiger sanctuary. The Karayar dam offers boating on the lake. An idol of Agasthiya Muni is installed on the hill that abuts the dam. Beyond the lake, in the reserve forest, is the breathtaking waterfall, called ``Banathirtham''. To reach the waterfall, one has to cross the lake, by boat.

The majestic waterfall is truly a magnificent sight. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests, making it one of the most beautiful sights.

The view from the Karayar dam of the adjoining hills is spectacular. Why go to South America, Africa or Indonesia for a feel of a rain forest. The only reason why such destinations as these have not taken off is the lack of facilities for tourists.

Heal the spirit and body

As beautiful as the tail-end is the Western Ghats at Top Slip, close to Pollachi in Coimbatore district. In Top Slip is the reserve for tigers and black monkeys -- the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. Top Slip is also the conservation site of medicinal plants. The Karian Shola supports medicinal species -- 95 trees, 161 herbs, 51 shrubs and one twiner. Top Slip has an old wooden cabin, preserved as a forest rest house. There is also a medicinal plants museum which offers vital information on the flora of the area, the species, their uses. On the Kerala side of the Indira Gandhi sanctuary is the oldest teak tree -- around for 146 years. Top Slip also has a centre to tame elephants.

On the Kerala side are Thekkady and Munnar. Thekkady, at the foot of the Periyar lake, draws tourists in large numbers during December-May. The forest adjacent to the lake is home to elephants, tigers, monkeys and wild boars. There are a few watch towers in the forest which can be approached by boat.

Munnar, near Devikulam, is largely unspoilt and accessible from Coimbatore, Ernakulam or Madurai. This, a tea town, was only recently discovered. Picturesquely located amid the rolling hills, Munnar also has two beautiful dams -- the Ramasami Iyer Dam an d the Sethu Parvathi Dam. On the highway between Munnar and Madurai, there are numerous picnic spots and sholas providing a breathtaking view. Munnar is where one can see man harnessing Nature's bounty for commercial profit even while communing with Natu re at her tranquil best.

The most popular destination in Kerala is, of course, Kumarakom, on the Vembanad lake. The region, called Kuttanad, is noted for paddy cultivation and lies below the lake level. More than paddy, such crops as pepper are cultivated in this area.

Kumarakom is the most fashionable tourism statement, especially after the Prime Minister's recent visit. Kumarakom offers rest houses built in the traditional style which serve local delicacies, especially fish from the Vembanad lake. The rest houses als o offer the traditional Ayurvedic healing and are a big draw for people looking for a rejuvenation. Kumarakom offers a quiet holiday, away from the bustle of the metropolis, among fishermen -- casting their traditional nets -- and farmers -- working in t he paddy fields.

Pic.: The Sethu Parvathi dam at Munnar.