Wildlife Kashmir

Dachigam National Park
A beautiful reserve, 22 km Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, it stretches across an area of 141 square kilometers. With abundance of the most scenic natural beauty, the variation in its altitude is vast, ranging from 5500 ft to 14000 ft above the sea level. Thus, it is very clearly marked into an upper and lower region and the best times to explore these two areas are summers and winters respectively. The park has been a protected area since 1910 and its name literally means 'ten villages', which stands for the number of villages that were relocated for its formation. It was finally declared a National Park in the year 1981. Initially created to ensure clean drinking water supply for the city of Srinagar, it now houses many rare species within its premises including Hangul, or Kashmir Stag.

The entire appearance of park changes with the onset of each season. In the winters, during the months of November to February, the park adorns a white cloak of snow. Hangul moves down to the lower regions in this season and is more easily sighted. Spring arrives in March and the ample greenery of the park stands in contrast with the preceding snow of the mountain slopes. Wild Cherry and other fruit trees give the lower regions a splash of pastel colors. Short summer season thaws out snow to unveil waterfalls and streams and even the higher regions are covered with vast grassy meadows and beautifully scented flowers. This is also the mating season for the Hangeul, which have already moved to the higher region are followed by the females and their recently born young ones during this season. August invites autumn and the tree leaves turn to bright shades of red, gold, yellow and orange.

The flora of the park includes wild trees like Wild Cherry, Pear, Plum, Peach, Apple, Apricot, Walnut, Chestnut, Oak, Willow, Poplar, Chinar, Birch, Pine and Elm while the fauns includes, besides Hangul, Musk Deer, Leopards, Himalayan Gray Langoors, Leopard Cats, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, Jackals, Hill Fox, Himalayan Weasel, Yellow Throated Martens, Jungle Cats, Long Tailed marmots and Otters. Some of the main bird species found here consist of Cinnamon Sparrows, Black Bulbuls, Monal Pheasants, Golden Orioles, Kokla Pheasants, Choughs, Warblers, Buntings, Streaked Laughing Thrushes, Minivets, Pygmy Owlets, Woodpeckers, Babblers, Wall Creepers, Black and Yellow Grossbeaks, Himalayan Griffons, Bearded Vultures, Redstarts, Wagtails, Laughing Thrushes, Red Browed Finches, Himalayan Ruby Throats, Long Tailed Blue Magpies and Tits.

Wildlife in Corbett

Most people know Jim Corbett from his writings as a famous hunter who became the nemesis of many notorious man-eaters. The lucid accounts of his exploits that he has given in his books generate as much excitement in people’s mind as they did when they were written. But besides being an articulate writer and accomplished hunter, Jim was a naturalist and conservationist, and a humble man.
A true son-of-the-soil, Jim was born in Nainital on 25th July, 1875. He grew up in Kaladhungi and Nainital, spending much of his childhood exploring the wilderness that lay around. It was here that he developed a deep knowledge of the way of the jungle.
At an early age Jim was faced with the responsibility of supporting his family of six members so he took up a job with the Railways. This was followed by a stint in the Army in World War-I. Afterwards, Jim, a confirmed bachelor, lived in Kaladhungi and Nainital with his sister, Maggie. This was the period when he was summoned many-a-time by villagers and the government to get rid of man-eating tigers or leopards.
But more than a hunter Jim was a wonderful naturalist. He had an excellent observation, was fleet-footed, and had great stamina. While moving in the forests he put all his senses – sight, hearing, smelling and unparalleled knowledge of the tract – to intelligent use. This way he could read the signs of the forests and predict movement of wildlife.
Jim was also a pioneer conservationist and was responsible for demarcating the area for the present-day Corbett National Park. He remained an active member of many wildlife preservation organisations and helped popularise natural history through his writing.
Not many people know that Jim was also an avid photographer and film-maker. He was one of the first persons to capture Indian wildlife on motion film and during his career obtained some rare and interesting footage.
Unlike most other Britishers living in India, Jim blended well with the local populace. He ate their food, spoke their language, lived with them, and was sensitive to their culture and religious beliefs.
However, soon after Independence he distributed his land and property to his associates and migrated to Kenya, where he spent the rest of his life.
Jim’s house at Kaladhungi, 28 km from Corbett National Park on the motorway to Nainital, is now a museum that attracts many of his admirers from far and wide. This museum is managed under the Uttaranchal Forest Department by Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Even in these times Jim Corbett continues to create a fascination for Nature and all things wild. Jim’s legacy lives on through his books, articles, films, and in the National Park named in his honour.

A BLEND OF NATURE AND CULTURE

Corbett isn’t just about Nature. It is also a rich treasure of history and cultural heritage. The park has a long tradition of conservation. The fact that it is the oldest National Park of the Asia and India’s first Tiger Reserve itself symbolizes that Corbett is a pioneer in efforts at preserving our natural heritage.
The great naturalist-writer Jim Corbett needs little introduction. His writings have fascinated generations of wildlife enthusiasts and he still commands no less appeal nowadays. The areas in and around the present day Corbett National Park were the stage for his exciting adventures in wilderness. Most of his man-eater hunting expeditions also took place in the same areas. Jim Corbett lived in Kaladhungi, where his house has been made into a Museum dedicated to his life and times.
Besides being located at a biogeographic confluence, Corbett National Park is situated at the junction of two distinct hill regions of Uttaranchal – Garhwal and Kumaon. Hence, the Park represents a synthesis of cultures of both these mountain areas.

HABITAT MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION


The greatest enemy of the forest is fire. During summers the danger of fire is greatest, when the forest floor is covered with dry leaves that readily catch fire and burn at the slightest spark. Once a summer fire starts it may quickly develop into an uncontrollable inferno, burning down forests and killing wildlife. Over the entire summer the forest staff are on their toes and as soon as a fire is detected, the crew immediately launches fire-fighting operations to minimise its impact. Clearings, called fire-lines, are maintained in the forests to serve as barriers to spreading fire.
A better way of preventing fires is to burn leaf litter artificially in winters before the dry season starts. This also promotes growth of fresh grass vital for deer and other grazing animals.
Exotic weeds cause much damage to the natural ecosystem of the park. In many areas weeds such as Lantana and Parthenium have invaded and wiped out native plants that are valuable herbivore food. Hence the forest staff also carries out weed eradication measures and clearings are replanted with indigenous grasses to restore the habitat.
The Corbett staff officials have to maintain constant vigil to prevent poaching and illicit cutting of trees over Corbett’s immense spread. Intensive patrolling is done throughout the Tiger Reserve and the Ramganga reservoir, using jeeps and motorboats.

Tribal Tours in India

Tribal Tour in Central India

Hi friends two months before I was on Tours of India for visit and know the tribal area’s in India. Tribal tourism has enhanced the development of tourism in India over the past few years. India is a land of million population with diverse culture and tradition. There are various tribal villages and tribal classes living in different parts of the country. Based on the lifestyle and the habitat of these tribes in India, the tribal tourism in India has evolved for the past few decades. The tribal tourism in India is divided into 4 distinct belts. The tribal tours in Central India (Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh & Chattisgarh) is one of them.
While you plan for tribal tours in Central India, Chattisgarh is one of the prime area of attractions. Apart from the tribes and the tribal culture of Chattisgarh, this new born state of India is well known for its pristine natural beauty. The tribal villages in Chhattisgarh is mainly dotted around the Bastar region. You will be definitely mesmerized to see the year-old traditional culture so beautifully retained by the local tribes in this part of India. There are plenty of tour operators in India, who carry out tribal tour in Central India including Bastar. These tour operators ensure you hassle free and safe tour in this tribal belt of India. While touring Bastar region, do remember to visit the tribal village of the Gond. If you are lucky enough you can also witness their marriage in the unique Ghotul style. Each of the tribes in Chattisgarh have their own culture, rituals, beliefs, language and tradition. Other notable tribes in this belt are Bhatra, Muria, Baiga, Abhuj Maria, Korba, Halbaa, Bisonhorn Muria and the Dhurvaa tribes. Like the other tribal communities of the world, the tribes of this region also engage them in music and dance which is most unique for each tribal group. While touring the tribal villages in Chattisgarh you can also take part in their traditional folklore and entertain yourself.
While you are on tribal tour of Madhya Pradesh do remember to visit the tribal villages of the Gond, Bhil, Bhilala, Kol, Patelia, Kanwar, Kaur, Cherwa, Rathia, Oraon, Sonr Tanwar, Baiga, Bharia, Bhumia, Bhuinhar, Bhumia, Panika, Bharia, Paliha, Pando, Habla or habli,, Korku,, Dhanka, Dhangad,, Sahariya,Sawara and Barela. The Santhals of Jharkhand are one of the most oldest tribes of India. This tribal class is known for their music, dance and colorful attire. Tribal tourism in Jharkhand include the visit to the various Santhal villages dotted amidst the forest and plateau of Chhotanagpur. Do remember to buy bamboo handicrafts and other handmade colorful attire while on your trip to any of the Santhal villages. You will be amazed by the aesthetic sense of the the tribal community of Jharkhand. The tribal community also have their own festivals and fairs that will give you a glimpse on their social life.
Hope you have a rewarding experience during the tribal tours in Central India ( Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh & Chattisgarh).


Tribal Tours in Northeastern India (NE states)

Northeastern states of India is one of the main tourist attractions of the country. The hilly states of the northeast frontier is like paradise on earth for many travelers. The northeastern states of India have been one of the greatest holiday destinations to not only Indian tourists but to many foreign travelers also. Tourism industry in northeast India have developed based on the states on Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and Nagaland. Each of the northeastern states is blessed with immense natural beauty. Nestled amidst the Himalayas, each state has its own beauty. The rich natural flora and fauna of the states have always attracted tourists from every part of the world. Each state also has its local tribes who are unique for their lifestyle, culture and tradition. So many tour operators in India arrange for tribal tours in Northeastern India(NE states) in different time of the year. There are several itinerary tribal tours in the Northeastern India conducted by the travel agents. These tribal tours of the NE states of India will definitely give you a chance to get an insight of the lifestyle of the local tribes.
So if you are planning for tribal tours in Northeastern India, some of the places that you must visit include Pasig hat where the Adi tribal village is located. There are many tribal villages in Arunachal Pradesh. While touring the NE states of India remember to visit Nishi tribal village, the tribal village of the Apatani tribe and the Hillmiri tribal village as well as the Tagin tribal village in Daporijo. Also remember to visit the local markets to buy memorabilia made by the local tribes. Also spend an afternoon in the local museum to get a look at the museum collectibles of the tribal. Make a day excursion to Minyong, Gallong and Tagin tribal villages at Jirdin, Kabu and Kayin.
You can also plan to spend your vacation along with the Naga tribes residing in the hills of Nagaland. The colorful costumes and jeweleries of the tribes is one of the identifying features of the tribes. While touring this part of India, remember to collect at least one colorful attire or any other handicraft goods made by the tribes. Main tribes from the northeastern India include the Naga tribes, Monpas, Sherdukpens, Khamtis, Khasi, Nokteys, Mishmis and Wanchoo. The ethnic culture and the traditional rituals of these northeastern tribes have enhanced a lot for the development of tourism in northeastern India, which is now one of the leading industries on this part of India.
You can also enjoy the natural beauty of each of these states apart from spending memorable time in the tribal villages. While in Manipur visit the Sendra island, Moirang, Loktak Lake, Ukhrul and Keibul Lamjao National Park. Attractions in Nagaland include Mon, Dimapur and Mokokchung. Also remember to visit Cherrapunji and Shillong while in Meghalaya.



Tribal Tours in South India (South India & Orissa)

India has a huge population with diverse culture. No wonder India also has huge number of tribal populations throughout the country. So if you are planning for a unique theme holiday in India, you can opt for tribal tours in South India ( South India & Orissa). The tribes of Orissa and South India have a well organized family life with their own rituals, traditions and virtue. These traditional features are the unique features of each of the tribes which make them distinct from one another. The cultural life and tradition of the tribes in South India and Orissa are unique of its kind. Tribal tours in South India will definitely give you a memorable experience of lifetime. There are various tour operators in India who conduct customized tribal tours in South India. If you are traveling to India from any abroad country, you can also communicate with any of the online travel agents in India. Most of the travel agents offer a wide array of itinerary tribal tour in South India and Orissa. So you can choose any of the travel packages offered by the travel operators according to your suitability and budget. The travel agents in India ensure you a safe and hassle free travel to India as they take care of your transportation, fooding, loding as well as sightseeing and other aspects related to your travel.
One of the most famous tribal villages in Orissa is the Kutia tribal village located at the Baliguda area. The tribes also have their weekly mobile market, the Haat. You can visit to this market to get a glimpse of tribal market. The Dongariya Kondh is another Haat of the local tribes that also attracts tourists. Other tribal villages of Orissa include Bonda, Didayee and Gadhaba. All the tribes of Orissa excel in producing wonderful fabric and textile work. So remember to buy colorful cotton textile products as a token of remembrance of you tour while visiting any of the local markets of the tribes. The best textile products can be bought from the Dhuruba village. You can also see the handlooms and the weaving technique of the local tribes at Kotpad. Do not forget to watch the graceful dance of the Gadaba Tribe while on tribal tour of Orissa. The Paraja is another notable tribe in Orissa. The Sanaparoja and Mali tribes located in Kunduli have the largest Haat in this tribal belt.
Apart from touring the tribal villages and tribal markets, you can also take a trip to the famous Jagannath temple in Puri, Konarak Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, Bhubaneshwar, Udaigiri, Khandagiri, Gopalpur, Chandipur and Cuttack while touring Orissa. There are also many attractions throughout the whole pf South India apart from the local tribal villages. Also remember to visit the Tribal village at Koraput to see various tribal collectibles.


Tribal Tours in Western India (Rajasthan & Gujarat)

Friends if you are planning for theme tour of India? Want to get a glimpse of the cultural and tribal tour to India? Then one of the ideal plans for you is the tribal tours in Western India (Rajasthan & Gujarat).
There are plenty of tour operators in India who offer a wide selection of tribal tours in Western India. The tour operators take all the responsibilities for your travel so that you can have a hassle free trip to India. If you are coming to India for the first time, you can plan an itinerary tribal tour in Western India (Rajasthan & Gujarat). Each of the tribal villages in western India have their own lifestyles, tradition and culture.
One of the famous tribes in Udaipur, Rajasthan is the Rathwa tribes. This tribal class is known to be one of the most ancient tribes in this part of India. You can also take a jeep ride to take a look around other nearby tribal villages like Devhat, Kol, Timla and Kharakwada. You can also take lunch in any of the tribal villages if you are not carrying a lunch pack with you. In the evening you can enjoy the tribal music and dance. There is also a local tribal museum where you can get to see many tribal collectibles as well as handicraft items made by these tribes. While taking a tour of the tribal village, do not forget to see the Pithora painting, a traditional tribal form of painting in their huts. The tribes of Rajasthan use this form of painting to decorate their huts. There is also haat or local market of the tribes. You can get some souvenirs made by the locales for your friends and relatives back at home. Apart from visiting the tribal villages, the forts, natural beauty and the desert of Rajasthan are added attraction to the tribal tours in Western India.
While in Gujarat, you can visit the Vaso tribal village en route to Ahmedabad. This tribal village is most well known for the buildings made of wood. Another destination for you is Poshina where you can meet with the Garacia tribes, one of the most famous tribal classes in this tribal belt of India. From Poshina, visit Rann of Kutch where you can meet with the local tribes of the Kutch area. With special permit you can also visit some of the restricted village area of Zainabad in Bhuj. The Rabari tribal village, Tunda Vanda village and the Banny tribal village are the main attractions of Bhuj. If you have enough time, you can also go to the villages at Gondal and Uthelia. At Saputara you can visit the tribes in the Dang area. Other attractions of Ahmedabad are the Jama mosque, Gandhi Ashram and the textile museum, one of the best of its kind in the world. You can also go for a customized tribal tours in Western India that include a wild life safari at the Rann of Kutch.