Ancient and older than the Himalayas, the Western Ghats mountain range showcases geomorphic features of remarkable significance, harboring unique biophysical and ecological dynamics. Its high-altitude forest ecosystems play a crucial role in shaping the Indian monsoon weather pattern. By tempering the tropical climate, this site stands as one of the planet's prime examples of the monsoon system. Boasting extraordinary levels of biological diversity and endemism, it is acknowledged as one of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ for biodiversity. Its forests feature some of the finest instances of tropical evergreen forests outside the equatorial zone and shelter over 325 globally endangered species of plants, animals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish.
Vernal Hanging-Parrot
Asian Green Bee-eater
Common Kingfisher
Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
Malbar Trogon
Rufous Babbler
Medium Egret
Oriental Garden Lizard
