Aaranya Forest and Sanctuary
Aaranya Forest and Sanctuary are spread across 100 acres, and it is located 10 km from Pondicherry City near poothurai village (East of ouster bird sanctuary). Aaranya Forest and Sanctuary is a manmade forest developed by Sarvanan. He converted this barren land into a lush green tropical dry evergreen forest for the past 25 years.
Mr Saravanan and his family are living in this forest and maintaining it. This forested habitat has nearly 900 indigenous species of plants, 240 varieties of birds, and 54 species of butterflies. It also inhabits rare mammals like Indian crested porcupines, jungle cats, golden jackals, small Indian civets, palm civets, spotter deers, and monitor lizards. Since the forest is close to the city, most animals are shy and nocturnal.
Bird watching
Bird watching is the best thing you can do in Aaranya forest. I used to visit regularly during the migratory season (November to March) every year to catch the winged friends from the Himalayas. Each bird requires a specific habitat to live and to find food. Birds like Indian Pitta, Indian Blue Robin and orange ground thrush prefer bushes and shrubs. I used to see rare migratory birds like Orange Breasted Pigeon, which prefers to be on the canopy and feeds on fruits and seeds. Colourful birds like Paradise flycatchers and blue-throated flycatchers visit during the migratory season. Aaranya does have owls like Rock Eagle Owl, Spotted owlets etc.
Trekking inside the forest
Aranya forest has six man-made water bodies and a lot of ravines where the animals hide to stay safe from the weather. The forest welcomes visitors but needs to make a prior appointment with Saravanan. Aranya forest conducts regular awareness programs regarding native trees and wildlife.
I visit Aaranya forest regularly to photograph wildlife and take awareness classes for the students and visitors. Trekking inside the Aranya forest is one of the most beautiful experiences you will enjoy. This forest has tree houses built on top of the great banyan tree and canyons that pass through the forest. With a good eye and sense of sound and movement, you can see birds in the forest and even mammals if you are lucky.
Best Season: December to March. The chances of sighting migratory birds are more during these months. Trekking will be easy this season with pleasant weather, and the forest will be covered with a green blanket after the monsoon.
Reaching there: You need a private vehicle to reach this place. Bus facilities are rare in this location.
Whatsapp for Bird watching and trekking in Aranya Forest: +91-7604942994
