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The Aravali range in north-western India is
one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world (3200 billion years
approx.). At present The Aravali range is only a reminiscent of the
gigantic system that existed in the prehistoric times with several
of its summits rising above the snow line and nourishing glaciers of
stupendous magnitude which in turn fed many great glaciers. The
Aravalis now flaunt a magnificent Semi-Dry Deciduous Forest.
Undulating hills of Aravali, supporting the dry deciduous forests,
provide an unimaginable beautiful ambience. The area is
characteristically rich in floral diversity- particularly medicinal
plants. It has numerous floral and faunal species of global
conservation significance. The rare flora comprises Kadaya (giving
medicinal gum), Gugal, amla and Moosli etc. The predominant trees
are- Khair, Salai, Modad, Dhavada, Khakhara, Timru. During late
winters (February-March) Khakhara-the flame of the forests- known by
many different names such as- Palash, Tesu, Kesudo, Dhak etc. is
generally in bloom with its striking red color resembling flames in
the forests. The rare animals include sloth bear, striped hyena,
leopard, bluebull, porcupine, fox, small Indian civet, Indian
pangolin and a number of reptiles including venomous and
non-venomous snakes, monitor lizards, star tortoise etc. The rare
birds of this area are adjutant Stork, spoonbill, osprey, white
backed Vulture and black vultures. (See the bird checklist & animals
& aviflora on our flora & fauna page).
It is in these very hills that we offer you customized trekking &
hiking trips to unwind from the hustle bustle of your busy life in
the cities & from your daily work routine & also, at the same time,
take a sneak-peek into the rich culture, vegetation, animals, birds
& tribes of Aravali range.
Significance: The forests of “The Aravalis” play an important role
in conserving the depleting eco-system and in controlling the
southward expansion of The Thar Desert. The forest areas,
interspersed with numerous hills and hillocks form the watershed for
many dams across the state. It also constitutes part of the
catchment areas of life giving important Rivers & Rivulets. The
ecological boundaries of Aravalis in Rajasthan State get amalgamated
with forests of Haryana & Delhi States in the north ,and ,Spreads
into agricultural fields all around providing ecological security
and ameliorated environment to the semi arid region of Gujarat in
the South & The expansive districts of Jaisalmer & Barmer to the
west which is threatened by expanding desert.
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