The
Sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges - The Aravali. It was declared
as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960.
Apart from having several sightseeing places this sanctuary is a draw for nature
lovers as it has great potential for Eco-tourism, In shape this sanctuary is
long and narrow but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau which is
about 19 km. is length and 5-8 km. in breadth.
Attitudinally it varies from 300m. at the foot Mil to 1722m. at Gurashikhar,
the highest peak of the Aravali Ranges.
The rocks are igneous and due the weathering effect of wind and water, large
cavities are common the rocks. This feature is typical of Aravali and particularly
of Mt. Abu. Toad Rock in Mount Abu is one such example.
Mount Abu has a very rich floral biodiversity starting with xenomorphic subtropical
thorn forest at the foot hills to subtropical evergreen forest along water courses
and valleys at higher altitudes. These forests consist of 112 plant families
with 449 genera and 820 species.
Of these, 663 species are dicots while 157 species are monocots. Mount Abu is
the only place in Rajasthan where one can observe a variety of orchids.
The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses
and 16 species of feras some of which are quite rare have also been reported
from here. The South- West part of the Sanctuary is rich in bamboo forests.
The sanctuary is rich in herbal medicinal plants also. About 81 species of tree,
89 species of shrubs, 28 species of climbers and 17 species of tuberous plants
of medicinal importance have been identified.
A variety of fauna Including highly rare, threatened and endangered species
are found in this sanctuary.
The past history of Mount Abu indicates the presence of Lion (last recorded
in 1872) and Tiger (last reported in 1970). Presently the Panther is the apex
predator.
Other animals found here are Sambhar, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wolf,
Hyaena, Jackal, Indian Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar, Pangolin, Rate!, Common
Mongoose, Indian Hare, Porcupine, Hedgehog, etc.
The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for Sloth Bear, The population of Sloth
Bear is increasing regularly as it can be seen while going through the forests
or motoring on the road.
Mount Abu Sanctuary, Rajasthan Sanctuaries
Reservation Form
