Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Location, Area, Flora and Fauna

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, in the Aravalli Range. Established in 1960, it covers approximately 326 square kilometres and is known for its rich biodiversity, varied forests and scenic landscapes. The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including rare plants, leopards, sloth bears and several bird species.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the southern part of Rajasthan, close to the border with Gujarat. It forms part of the ancient Aravalli Range, which is among the oldest mountain ranges in the world.

The nearest major railway connection is Abu Road Railway Station, while Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is one of the nearest airports.

History of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mount Abu region has historical, religious and ecological importance. It is mentioned in Hindu religious traditions and has long been associated with pilgrimage and meditation.

During British rule, Mount Abu developed as a hill station because of its relatively cool climate. It also became an important location for British officials in the Rajputana region.

The major historical developments related to the sanctuary are:

• 1960: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary was established to protect the region’s natural environment and wildlife.
• 2008: The sanctuary’s notification was modified and finalised, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• 2020: An Eco-Sensitive Zone was notified around the sanctuary to support the protection of its fragile ecosystem.

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Area and Geographical Features

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary covers approximately 326.10 square kilometres, according to the referenced sanctuary profile. It includes hills, valleys, rocky formations and different types of forests.

The sanctuary’s geographical features include:

• Hills and rocky slopes: These provide shelter and movement corridors for wildlife.
• Forest-covered valleys: These support diverse plants and offer food and shelter to animals.
• Grasslands: These provide feeding grounds for herbivores.
• Different elevations: Changes in altitude influence vegetation, temperature and local habitats.
• Water sources: Seasonal streams and other water sources help sustain plants and animals.

Guru Shikhar The Highest Peak

Guru Shikhar is the highest peak of the Aravalli Range, rising to approximately 1,722 metres above sea level. It is located in the Mount Abu region of Rajasthan.

The peak is known for its scenic views and religious significance. Its elevation also contributes to the cooler climate of Mount Abu compared with the surrounding plains.

Nakki Lake and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

Nakki Lake is a well-known lake located in Mount Abu, near the sanctuary. It is surrounded by hills and greenery and is a popular tourist attraction.

Visitors come to the lake for boating, walking and enjoying the natural surroundings. However, Nakki Lake should not be confused with the sanctuary itself; it is a nearby attraction rather than a defining feature of the protected area.

Flora of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

The flora of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary includes diverse plant species due to its varied altitude, rainfall and climatic conditions, ranging from dry thorn forests to subtropical evergreen forests.

• Deciduous Forests: Include trees such as Dhok and Lagerstroemia parviflora.
• Thorn Forests: Feature drought-resistant plants such as Acacia, Ber and Karira.
• Bamboo Forests: Provide shelter and cover for wildlife.
• Grasslands: Support grasses, herbs and wildflowers that serve as food for herbivores.
• Rare and Endemic Plants: The region supports rare and locally restricted plant species, including orchids and ferns.
• Medicinal Plants: Include Amla, Brahmi, Bhringraj, Safed Musli and other plants used in traditional medicine.

Fauna of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

The fauna of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary includes a variety of mammals, birds and reptiles that contribute to the ecological balance of the Aravalli Range.

• Mammals: Indian leopard, sloth bear, sambar deer, jungle cat, striped hyena, golden jackal, wild boar and Indian pangolin.
• Birds: Grey junglefowl, baya weaver, green avadavat, green munia and vultures.
• Reptiles: Indian python, monitor lizard and chameleon.
• Predators: Leopards and jungle cats help regulate populations of smaller animals.
• Herbivores: Sambar deer and other plant-eating animals depend on the sanctuary’s forests for food and shelter.
• Ecological Importance: Birds help with seed dispersal and insect control, while mammals and reptiles support the natural food chain.