Discover the Beauty and Wildlife of This Tropical Rainforest Gem
Introduction: Longwood Shola Reserve Forest
Longwood Shola Reserve Forest, nestled in the heart of Kotagiri, is a small yet significant tropical rainforest spanning just 115 hectares. Serving as a crucial water source for numerous villages in Kotagiri, this forest first caught my attention in Outlook Traveller, which led me to explore it in November 2005.
First Encounter with the Rainforest and Its Leeches
During my initial visit, the guesthouse caretaker attempted to discourage me from trekking, citing an abundance of leeches. Unfazed by his warning, I insisted on proceeding with the trek. Within minutes, however, leeches began latching onto us, forcing us to flee the forest in just five minutes.
Return to Longwood Shola: A Journey 11 Years Later
In February, I decided to venture back to Longwood Shola, now experienced and unfazed by leech bites. Accompanied by two guides, a forest watcher, and a young APW, we embarked on a 30-minute trek during a hot, midday sun. Although we didn't witness much bird activity, we did spot a long snake in a tree near the entrance.
 |
| Entrance |
 |
| Longwood Shola Guesthouse |
A Serene Evening Trek in Longwood Shola
A year later, I had another opportunity to return to Longwood Shola. Arriving around 4:45 p.m., we were joined by a friendly and knowledgeable female forest guard. Throughout our trek, we encountered stunning marshes, tall canopy trees, orchids, creepers, and medicinal plants, all of which our guide pointed out and shared valuable information about.
 |
| Longwood Shola gate |
 |
| The marsh filters and stores the water |
 |
| One of the streams(now dry) that feeds the marsh |
 |
| Guide Explaining a few finer aspects of a rain forest |
 |
| Wild Mushrooms |
 |
| Bio Indicator of an Evergreen Forest |
Wildlife Encounters and Stories
Although we didn't spot any wildlife directly, we observed evidence of their presence, such as fresh gaur hoof marks and scattered bones. Our guide shared a thrilling tale of a recent encounter between a leopard and a fully grown male gaur, whose duel lasted from morning to evening.
 |
| Path to the colonial Bungalow, also place of the old stream |
Easy and Educational Trekking Experience
The Longwood Shola trekking trail is effortless, requiring no strenuous effort. Our leisurely 2 km trek took over an hour, as we frequently paused to learn about the forest and its flora and fauna. The entire experience proved to be one of the most enjoyable and educational treks I have ever embarked upon, leaving me eager to return in the future.
 |
| Remains Of a Gaur |
 |
| A very rare Wild papaya with medicinal value |
 |
| Longwoog Shola Trekking Path |
 |
| Wild Orchid |
 |
| Tree Fern next to a stream |
Our Exceptional Guide: Siva Parvathi
Siva Parvathi, our Kothas tribe guide, boasts a diploma in computer science and a BA in English. As a forest watcher, she displays a genuine passion for the rainforest and its conservation. Her dedication and knowledge made the trek an unforgettable experience.
How to Reach Longwood Shola
Located on the way to Kodanad Viewpoint from Kotagiri, just past Donnington Junction, Longwood Shola is easily accessible by bus or on foot.
Accommodation Options
For those interested in staying overnight, the Forest Guesthouse offers accommodation. Bookings can be made by contacting the Nilgiris North Division office in Ooty.
Comments
Post a Comment