8 things that make India’s Western Ghats fascinating

The Western Ghats, a majestic mountain range, running parallel to the western coast of the Indian subcontinent, span approximately 1,600 km across the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The Western Ghats, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the planet's foremost biodiversity hotspots.

The diverse landscapes of this mountain range comprises evergreen forests, shola grasslands, and montane forests. And these forests support an array of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic and rare in nature. Meaning, some of these plants and animals are not found anywhere else on earth except in the forests of the Western Ghats.



The Western Ghats mountain range is characterised by a myriad of unique features:


Biodiversity hotspot: The Western Ghats mountain range is home to some of the best biodiversity hotspots in the world. The unique biodiversity of this region is why in 2012, a total of 39 areas of the Western Ghats were declared as UNESCO World Heritage sites. A vast array of plant and animal species found here are endemic and found nowhere else in the world.


Endemic species: Speaking of endemic species, the region is home to numerous species that are endemic to the Western Ghats. Some of the most famous ones are the Malabar large-spotted civet, the Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, purple frog, and the critically endangered Amboli Toad.


Evergreen forests: The Western Ghats are adorned with lush evergreen forests, contributing to the overall green cover of the region. These forests are vital for maintaining ecological balance and supporting diverse wildlife.



Shola grasslands and montane forests: Along with the evergreen forests, the Western Ghats feature unique shola grasslands and montane forests. These ecosystems are characterised by vast grassy patches and stunted forests.

Rivers and waterfalls: The Western Ghats are the source of several major rivers in the Indian subcontinent, including the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. The rugged terrain also gives rise to numerous waterfalls, such as Jog Falls and Dudhsagar Falls, and they are some of the most famous waterfalls in India.

Also read: Picture-perfect mountain lakes in India

Cultural and historical significance: The Western Ghats are not only about the forests, mountain ranges and the rivers. The region also has tremendous cultural and historical significance. There are several ancient temples and settlements nestled in its hills that are intriguing, to say the least.

Agro-biodiversity: The region is known for its agro-biodiversity, with traditional agricultural practices and numerous crop varieties adapted to the local climate. This diversity contributes to the resilience of the region's agriculture. From tea and coffee to various spices, find them all here.

Also read: Evidence of world’s oldest forest found in New York, US

Rainfall and monsoon magnet: The Western Ghats influence the Indian monsoon, acting as a barrier that captures moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea. This interaction results in heavy rainfall on the windward side of the Ghats, fostering rich vegetation and supporting the region's biodiversity.