Check out these must-visit biosphere reserves in India
India has around 18 biosphere reserves that aim to protect the environment, its wildlife, and exotic flora and fauna. These reserves have also been established by the government to protect the traditional tribal communities living in the vicinity and preserve their lifestyle and culture. These specialized reserves have been approved by UNESCO. Here are five must-visit biosphere reserves in India.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
One of the largest and the first biosphere reserves in India under UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Program, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is located in the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills and Western Ghats in South India. Established in 1986, the reserve was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2012. It houses the endangered Nilgiri tahr and lion-tailed macaque.
Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
Nestled at a height of 3,500 meters above sea level around the peak of Uttarakhand's Nanda Devi, the Nanda Devi Biosphere was established in 1982. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The biosphere was expanded and renamed Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks in 2005. It houses over 300 varieties of flora and several species of wildlife.
Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve
Located in the vast delta of the Ganges, in West Bengal bordering Bangladesh to the east, the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The forest covers an area of about 10,000 square kilometers. It is one of the largest reserves for the renowned Royal Bengal Tiger and is also home to the endangered estuarine crocodiles.
Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve
Located in the Western Himalayas within Himachal Pradesh, the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve spans 7,700 square kilometers, encompassing Chandratal, Pin Valley National Park, and Sarchu & Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary.This reserve is renowned for its dedication to preserving the snow leopard, and visitors may also have the opportunity to spot Himalayan black bear, woolly hare, Tibetan gazelle, and snow partridge when here.
Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
Situated in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh, the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve was established to preserve and protect wildlife. Founded in 1999 by the Indian government, the reserve earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2009. Encompassing an area of about 5,000 square kilometers, the reserve comprises three distinct wildlife conservation units: Bori Sanctuary, Satpura National Park, and the Pachmarhi Sanctuary.
