Nestled along the western coast of India, the Western Ghats stand as a natural marvel, showcasing unparalleled biodiversity and ecological significance. This expansive mountain range stretches across six states and two union territories, creating a rich tapestry of landscapes and fostering a unique blend of flora and fauna.
Maharashtra: Gateway to the Ghats
The state of Maharashtra is the northern gateway to the Western Ghats. With its varied topography, Maharashtra encompasses portions of the Sahyadri range. Famous for its hill stations like Mahabaleshwar and Matheran, this region is a hotspot for biodiversity. The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary and Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary are among the conservation areas contributing to the preservation of endemic species.
Karnataka: The Biodiversity Hotspot
Moving southwards, Karnataka boasts a significant portion of the Western Ghats. The UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve extends into Karnataka, encompassing areas like Nagarhole National Park and Bandipur National Park. These regions are crucial habitats for the endangered Indian elephant and the elusive Bengal tiger.
Kerala: God’s Own Biodiversity
Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is blessed with a substantial stretch of the Western Ghats. The Ghats play a vital role in the state’s climate and water resources. Silent Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of endemic species, including the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Nilgiri Langur.
Goa: Where Ghats Meet the Sea
Tiny yet ecologically significant, Goa is situated on the western edge of the Western Ghats. Known for its pristine beaches, Goa’s Western Ghats region provides a crucial watershed for the state. The Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is a testament to Goa’s commitment to conserving its rich biodiversity.
Tamil Nadu: The Southern Frontier
As we move further south, the Western Ghats continue to influence the ecological dynamics of Tamil Nadu. The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, shared with Kerala, is a UNESCO-listed area known for its unique flora, including the famous Agastya tree. The Ghats also contribute significantly to the state’s water resources.
Coastal Union Territories: Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Nestled on the western coast, the union territories of Daman and Diu, along with Dadra and Nagar Haveli, share a connection with the Western Ghats. Though small in size, these territories benefit from the ecological services provided by the adjacent Ghats, including water regulation and climate moderation.
Key Data: Biodiversity Hotspots and Conservation Areas
| State/UT | Biodiversity Hotspots | Key Conservation Areas |
| Maharashtra | Sahyadri | Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Karnataka | Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park |
| Kerala | Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Agasthyamalai | Silent Valley National Park, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Goa | Western Ghats | Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Tamil Nadu | Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve | Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Daman and Diu | Western Ghats | – |
| Dadra and Nagar Haveli | Western Ghats | Dadra and Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuary |
The Western Ghats stand not only as a geographical feature but as a lifeline for the states and union territories that share their borders with this ecological treasure. From Maharashtra in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south, each region contributes to the overall biodiversity and environmental stability of the Western Ghats.
