Step into the hottest hotspot of biodiversity

The Western Ghats region stands as a crown of emerald upon India’s western coast, known as Sahyadri, a UNESCO-designated “Hottest Hotspot” of biodiversity. This extraordinary place lies within the realm of the Western Ghats, a unique blend of geography, climate, and geology that renders this region truly exceptional. From ancient tropical forests to dramatic terrain gradients, the Sahyadri mountain range boasts an extraordinary array of endemic flora and fauna. Its origins trace back to the breakup of the ancient landmass of Gondwanaland, followed by the formation of India into an isolated landmass and its later collision with Eurasia. These geological and evolutionary processes have led to the high speciation and unique biodiversity found in the Western Ghats. Moreover, the Ghats influence the monsoon weather patterns across India, acting as a barrier to the rain-laden southwest monsoon winds and shaping the tropical monsoon system.

Why Sahyadri

Purity & abundance personified

Why Sahyadri

Purity &
abundance personified

Beyond its geological significance, the Western Ghats are home to an unparalleled richness of flora and fauna. With over 4,000 plant species, including 650 tree species, of which 352 are endemic, the Ghats stand as a botanical treasure trove. Its fauna boasts an equally impressive roster, with endemic amphibians, reptiles, and flagship mammal species like the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, and Nilgiri Langur. The diversity of ecosystems represented in the Western Ghats ranges from tropical wet evergreen forests to montane grasslands, containing many medicinal plants and significant genetic resources. More than 300 globally threatened flora and fauna species are found in the Western Ghats, which contain more than 30 percent of all plant, fish, bird, and mammal species found in India.

Flowering Plants

0 +

Non-Flowering Plants

0 +

Mammals

0 +

Birds

0 +

Our benefits

Beyond what the pastures offer

Our benefits

Beyond what the
pastures offer

Diving deeper into the Ghats reveals a tapestry of ecosystems, ranging from tropical wet evergreen forests to montane grasslands. Each niche harbors a myriad of life forms, including medicinal plants and genetic resources crucial for global biodiversity. The region’s significance extends beyond its borders, with over 300 globally threatened species calling it home. Among these inhabitants are about 17 percent of the world’s tigers and 30 percent of the Asian elephants, underscoring the Ghats’ pivotal role in wildlife conservation on a global scale.

Traditions

Richness and diversity of Traditions & Culture

Stretching over 1,600 kilometers along India’s western coast, the Western Ghats cradle a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Spanning six states, these mountains have shaped the identities of countless communities, fostering a mosaic of languages, cuisines, and belief systems. Here, amidst the rugged peaks and verdant valleys, lies a reservoir of human heritage as diverse and vibrant as the natural world that surrounds it.

Delicate ecosystem

Despite covering less than six percent of India’s land area, the Western Ghats hold a disproportionate share of the country’s biodiversity. This fragile ecosystem not only supports an array of charismatic megafauna but also serves as the lifeblood of millions, as the source of numerous rivers that sustain communities across the subcontinent. Its protection and preservation are paramount, ensuring the continuity of both natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.

Conserve to take it to the next generation

In the face of mounting environmental challenges, the imperative to conserve the Western Ghats grows ever more urgent. As stewards of this ecological treasure, we bear a collective responsibility to safeguard its wonders for future generations. Through sustainable practices, informed policies, and grassroots initiatives, we can ensure that the legacy of the Western Ghats endures, a beacon of biodiversity and resilience in an ever-changing world.