Species & Habitats

Endemics of the Western Ghats

The Western Ghats are older than the Himalayas and hold a biodiversity found nowhere else on earth. Half of India's amphibians, and a long list of mammals, birds and reptiles, are endemic to these rainforests and shola grasslands. A journey here is slow, green and deeply patient — a study in a world quietly keeping itself to itself.

The journey

An Introduction

Stretching along India's western coast, the Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to a stunning array of endemic species. This ancient mountain range teems with over 7,000 plant species, nearly 1,800 of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Among its unique flora, the neelakurinji flower, blooming once every 12 years, paints the hills blue. The region also hosts rare fauna like the Malabar Giant Squirrel, Nilgiri Tahr, and the monsoon-emerging purple frog. For photographers, the Western Ghats offer dynamic landscapes and opportunities to capture rare species and highlight their beauty through visual storytelling. This rich biodiversity underscores the critical need for conservation, with many species threatened by habitat loss and climate change. Documenting the region's unique wildlife helps raise awareness and advocate for preservation efforts. Exploring the Western Ghats is a profound journey into the heart of biodiversity, offering a glimpse into the evolutionary history of the Indian subcontinent and a living library of ecological wonders.

You may photograph

Highlight Species

Lion Tailed Macaque
Nilgiri Langur
Nilgiri Tahr
Nilgiri Flycatcher
Nilgiri Marten
Nilgiri Sholakili
Malabar Grey Hornbill

Rhythm

Number of Nights Recommended

Minimum of 10–14 nights.

Season

Best Time to Visit

December to April.

Where we go

Best Locations

Wayanad
Valparai
Thattekad
Munnar
Coonoor
Karapura

Plan your journey

Plan a Western Ghats journey with us

Travel with our naturalist across the rainforests and shola country of southern India — on an expedition shaped around your pace, your dates and the endemic species you most want to meet.

Enquiries