CHAPTER II CHAPTER II

PHYSIOGRAPHIC APPRAISAL FOR ECOTOURISM

Topic No. Page Number

2.0 Introduction: 40

2.1 Physiography: 40

2.1.1 Western belt: 40

2.1.2 Central belt: 41

2.1.3 Eastern belt: 43

2.2 Geology: 43

2.3 Drainage: 45

2.4 Climate: 47

2.5 Soils: 50

2.6 Vegetation: 53

2.7 Wildlife: 63

2.8 Historical background: 68

2.9 Tourist attractions of the study area: 69

2.10 Resume: 77 CHAPTER II PHYSIOGRAPHIC APPRAISAL FOR ECOTOURISM

2.0 Introduction: Development of tourism is primarily depends upon natural and cultural factors. These together are responsible for availability of related facilities and marketability of tourist places. Ecotourism development mainly depends upon the characteristics of natural and cultural features of the . This chapter mainly deals with physiographic set up and appraisal of sites for ecotourism along with brief historical background.

2.1 Physiography: district is almost triangular in shape and covers 5.09 % area of . Physiographically may conveniently be divided into three divisions viz. 1) Western belt 2) Central belt 3) Eastern belt (Fig. 2.1). The area of interest with respect to ecotourism lies in the first two belts. A brief account of each belt is presented below.

2.1.1 Western belt: It is a 5 to 25 km wide and 118 km in length of mountains region called Ghatmatha. The altitude ranges between 900 to 1200 m with some peaks rise to even more than 1300 m, e.g. Torna (1404 m), etc. It runs from north to south and forms the main range of the Sahyadris. The Western belt consist the main crestline of the Sahyadri ranges, which run along the entire western border of the district. It rises from the in gentle slope and falls west into the in the form of sheer cliff (Plate 2.2). In this belt several ecotourism destination may be identified. The of the region is an extremely undulated and some interesting features like lofty peaks, clear-cut ridges, steep slopes and deep ravines with interfluves and round top hill in the form of residue of erosion are characterising the landscape. The major interfluves of the plateau rise westward in steps, the ideal 'Piedmont Trappean (Plate 2.3) and represent erosional surface. There are some passes across this range. Such passes have provided favourable location for construction of roads and railways joining Konkan and Desh region e.g. , Malshej , Borghat and Varnadha ghat etc. The first range situated at western part of district, the main crestline of the Sahyadries. There are number of noticeable peaks in Sahyadris like Jivdhan, Dhak, Ahupe

40 and Nagphani (Duke Nose), the famous double-peaked of , etc. At the south of Duke's Nose and slightly inland from the line of the Sahyadri ranges lie the lofty striking range known as the Jambulni hills. Further south the isolated rocks of Koiri and Majgaon control the Ambauni and Amboli passes, 10 km further is the prominent bluff of saltar, and 32 km beyond is Tamhini near the south-west corner of the district. The forts have been built on most of these peaks, having strategic location to keep watch and control on the kingdom by various dynasties.

2.1.2 Central belt: It is the second highest belt surrounding the Ghatmatha on the eastern side. This also narrow belt having width about 15 to 30 km. It consists of offshoots of Sahyadris and characterised by Small Mountain and hilly ranges that stretch eastwards and gradually sink into the plain. These ranges separated by river valleys through which access to tourist places along the branches of Sahyadris has been possible. There are four hilly ranges running eastwards from the main crestline in this belt. The first and third from the north consist of parallel ridges running eastward. The second and fourth belts are full of deep narrow ravines and gorges cut through hills with terraced sides and broad flat tops. It covers hill ranges of Harichandra, Shingi, Tasubhai, Mandvi, Tamini, Ambala, Purandhar, and etc. These hill ranges separated by eastern flowing rivers, e. g. Shingi hill between Bhima and Bhama, Tasubhai hill between Bhama and indryani, Mandvi hill between Pawana and Mula. Tamini hill between Mula and Mutha, Ambala hill between Mutha and Nira. These small hill ranges are eastern offshoots of the Sahyadris. The first belt is at the northern most, which is about 25 km broad located in the tahsil. It has three well-marked narrow ridges, the crests occasionally broken into peaks with steep rocky slopes. South of ridge two short ranges spread about 32 km with chief peaks Hatkeshvar, about more than 600 m above the Junnar plain, further it divides the Madhner and Kokadner valleys. About half way between Hatkeshvar and the Sahyadris on a half-detached ridge at right angles to the main spur is , a great rocky mass about 400m above the plain. Chavand hill is located about 6.5 km to southwest. A famous shivner hill is located further east, between the Kukdi and the Mina river.

41 RELIEF FEATURE OF THE STUDY AREA

Figure No. 2.1

N

ig a p KM

450- 600 M. 600- 900 M. 900- 1200 M. ABOVE 1200 M

42 The second belt of eastern hills runs mainly in the Khed tahsil. This belt stretches from Bhimashankar in the northwest to Shingi and Khondeshvar hills in southeast. The slopes are broken by terrace with good soil, which are cultivated in places. The third belt like the first belt includes several spur or ridges. These are the Tasobai ridge between the Bhama and the Andhra river. Shridepathar marks the interfluves between the Andhara and the Kundali valleys. The water divide between the Indrayani and the Pauna is marked by Sakhupathar plateau, and the four peaks of Lohgad, Visapur, Batrasi, and kudva. To their south are located the two peaks of Tung and . The fourth belt constitutes the hills like Sinhgad, , Malhargad, Dhavleshvar, Purandhar, Vajragad, Kharepathar, etc. it forms the southern boundry of mula mutha basin. These ranges are broken due to erosion by tributaries the on one side and that of river Nira on the southern side. Having altitudes about 700 to 800 m offer favourable site for trekking with some peaks rising above 1200 m contour e.g. Purandhar.

2.1.3 Eastern belt: It is gently sloping wide (80 to 115 km) region, which is changing gradually from valleys and broken upland to a bare open plain. This belt is part of fertile zone of western zone of Maharashtra. Due to its topographical situation it has little potential for ecotourism activity. However, this region can be considered as nearest market zone for ecotourism to be established in the western a central belt of district. Aforementioned that the study region covers mainly by the western margin of the ranges of sahyadri. Some interesting features like lofty peaks, clear-cut ridge, steep slops and deep valleys and round top hill are characterising the landscape. The overlooking picturesque Konkan area from the sahyadri crest line and numerous waterfalls cascading down all over the region are observed in the rainy season. There are number of hill forts located at various physiographically strategic positions and number of historical caves along the mountain slope. Pleasing view of mighty sahyadri while passing various ghats roads also enthrals visitors. Thus, physiographic arrangement of the region creates paradise for tourism.

2.2 Geology: From Geological point of view, almost all-geographical area of the Pune districts is covered by stratified trap called 'Deccan trap' with inter- trappean beds. It is the youngest mega- geomorphic unit of the Indian peninsula (Kale 2000). Deccan trap means step like

43 topography of the volcanic terrain of the Deccan region. This is mainly formed from basaltic rocks. It has resulted from the consolidation of the lava that was erupted during the cretaceous and early Eocene, about 60 to 65 million years ago (Krishana, 1963). The structure of such rock observed mainly in two categories. The non- vesicular type is hard, tough, compact and medium to fine grained with conchoidal structure. The second one is amygdaloidal type, which is comparatively soft and breaks more easily. The layer of basalt is thick in western Maharashtra and the same goes on decreasing towards the east and south. It has been disturbed by diastrophic movement and has undergone to sub-aerial process, which have led to produce a multitude of microforms. The most striking feature is the 1000 m fault escarpment that forms the western margin of the district. The most widespread view about origin of escapement i.e. Western Ghat is formed by faulting during the paleocene. In recent years, the most widely accepted explanation is that the present escapement represents a continental edge, created by rifting and separation of the Seychelles micro- in late cretaceous. The rifting has been generally ascribed to the northward movement of the Indian plate, giving rise to the present shoreline of the (Kale, 2000). The plateau after the catastrophic phase of faulting has remained relatively stable and has undergone a succession of cycles of erosion and hence polycyclic landforms are observed (Dikshit, 1971). The inter trappeans beds separating layers of lava formed in different periods are exposed to sub-aerial processes and are identified as red boles at many places. Red boles are reddish or greenish layer occurring between consecutive lava flows representing baked soils developed over old lava flows. It is also knows as a fossil laterite. Dykes of various ranges from few 100 m to several km in length and less than 20 m wide intrude the Deccan traps. Most of the dykes are dolerite dyke. As the total district lies in the tropical region the rocks exhibit a tendency to spheroidal weathering. So the outcrop of this physical weathering, rounded boulders are commonly found scattered along the foothill throughout the district. Another Structural feature is the prismatic and columnar jointing. These are generally observed in the step like series of perpendicular escarpment on the hillsides and slopes of the narrow winding valley. The laterite rocks, products of chemical weathering under leaching environment are reported at Bhimashankar in the Pune district Deccan trap has formed from hard basaltic rocks of volcanic origin. It is recognised as one of the few examples in the world. Viewing its inter- trappean beds, step

44 like topography is marvellous experience. Furthermore, spheroidal weathering with core stones (Plate 2.9) distinctly observed along the road cuts while crossing ghat road. The fault escarpment that form the western margin of the district, dykes of various size, red bole, river gorges (Plate2.4), prismatic and columnar jointing are the most striking geological features of the study region. There are many more features but are untapped from tourism point of view. This kind of geological setting certainly offers great opportunity for the responsible traveller.

2.3 Drainage: The Pune district is drained by many rivers and streams, source of which is in the . Due to eastern and south- western slope of the ranges, all the rivers are flowing in eastern and south- western direction. The most of the rivers are non-perennial in character but flows with enormous discharge during the season. The Pune district is the part of upper and middle Bhima basin. Bhima flows across to the total length of the district, it has important tributaries like Ghod, on the left bank and Mula-Mutha, Indryani and Nira, are the main the main tributaries. The Ghod system occupies Junnar, and tahsils in the north of the study region. These two tahsils are drained by pushpavati, Kukadi, Main, Ghod etc. These rivers have number of tributaries and channels responsible for head ward erosion of the ghat region and hence responsible for creating beautiful landscape in the high rainfall zone of these hilly tahsils. There are four dams constructed across these rivers in the hilly track of western ghat and they been responsible for additional beauty in the landscape the main channel of Bhima starts from Bhimashankar which is located in the Khed in the tahsil and accessible Ambegaon tahsil. The important tributaries on the southern side are Bhama, Andhra, Indrayani, Pawana, Mula, Mutha, Gunjavani, Nira etc. draining the waters of the tahsils like Mulshi Velhe, and Purandhar. There are more than 10 good dams adding the scenic beauty in Western and central Physiographic belt. These tributaries sperially Pawan, Mula and Mutha are responsible for tranejrussing water from high rain fall zone to the and have become crucial factor influencing the urban growth on the other hand the upstream sides of these rivers have been responsible for creating attractive landscape which has advantage of nearness to rich metropolitan zone this geographical situation, understanding of this geographical situation may be useful for designing strategy for ecotourism.

45 Drainage of the Study Area Figure No. 2.2

46 Thus is may be remark here that drainage of the region is responsible for offering suitable destination sites for ecotourism in three ways. 1. The 1st order channels of these tributaries have carved a beautiful landscape. 2. Secondly, the dams constructed across these rivers offer tourism only with environmental planning. 3. Thirdly, these rivers have been host for many historical and pilgrimage centers either near the confluence or at the source e.q. Bhimashankar Kukeshwar, , Ambvade Ozer etc. River has great importance in the Indian society. Along with religious faith, opportunity of water sports like rafting, river crossing, trek along the river course etc. can be traced with the help of studying drainage pattern. This will be the new vistas for the tourism activity in the area.

2.4 Climate: The climate of study area may be divided into fallowing seasons. The cold season- from November to February The hot season- from March to mid June. The monsoon season- from mid June to September. The succeeding period from the beginning of October to November is the post monsoon or transitional season. The climate of the study area is described as a part of monsoon climate. As mentioned above the cold season begins in November and ends in February. After the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon early in October, the nights becoming cooler but there is no significant drop in the day temperature due to October heat. December is generally the coldest month with the mean daily maximum at about 12°c to 13°c. The district is occasionally affected by cold waves in the wake of western disturbance passing eastwards across north and the minimum temperature at times drop to about 1 °c to 2°c. Especially in the northern and western parts of the district occasionally occurs slight frost. The hot season may begin in the middle of March and end in June through the hot winds. The main distinctiveness of the hot weather is on top of middle of May, maximum temperature observed in May around 41°c. Towards the end of April, the temperature of Pune district sometimes rises over 37°c. Thunderstorms occasionally break the heat but

47 CLIMATE OF THE STUDY AREA (Rainfall zone)

Figure No. 2.3

N

1? 0 1? KM

2Z'c

Rainfall Zone

Annual Temp. In *c Annual RFIn nit • TLand DT boundry

48 they are generally accompanied by cloudy and humid weather. April and May though the hottest but not the driest months. From the middle of March northward movement of the sun results in increasing rate of temperature and formation of intense low pressure in the north region, which attracts the westerly winds embedded with water vapour across the Konkan and over the west Deccan. Finally sometimes, early in May, in the east and central part of the district, in the afternoon experienced heavy rain with thunder. The main source of rain in the district is from the southwest monsoon, which begins about the middle of June and lasts till the end of September. The distribution rainfall in the district has spatial variation. As one move from west side Ghatmatha area towards eastern side, rainfall proportion gets decreases because of rain shadow region. Western most Ghatmatha parts of sahyadri Crestline of the district get maximum rainfall in the moonsoon, which is orographic type of rainfall. On the basis of rainfall distribution the district can be divided into three north-south zones. The western zones of high rainfall receive average annual rainfall over 100cm. From the crest line within the distance of 40 km. one notices a sharp fall in the amount of rainfall. The central, transitional zone, receive moderate rainfall between 100 cm and 60 cm and the eastern semi arid area receives a rainfall in the district decreases from 50 cm. i.e. near average rainfall is 431 cm and at Pune it is 65 cm. With the on set of the monsoon early in June there is rapid drop in the day temperature but the nights still continue to be about as warm as during April and May and with the increased humidity of the monsoon. Towards the end of the monsoon season in September and October, there is a slight increase in the day temperature but the night becomes progressively cooler. Regarding other climatic elements like humidity, cloudiness, winds, general observations and comments of the experts have been noted. In the monsoon season, average humidity is usually between 70 and 80 percent. It is relatively fewer during rest of the year. During the monsoon season the skies are generally overcast and rest of the year the skies are commonly clear or slightly clouded. However, in the cold season for brief spells of western disturbances occasionally cause cloudy weather condition. During the monsoon season, in general winds are light to moderate with respect to force. Winds direction is variable with respect movement of sun. Winds are variable in direction during October. In month of November and December winds are generally calm or blow mainly from the east or southeast. In the rest of the year the winds are mainly blow from direction

49 between southwest and northwest. It means that summer wind moves generally from north westerly and west direction. In rainy seasons westerly and south westerly in winter generally flows from easterly or north easterly. Depressions in the Arabian Sea during May and June, and depressions from the Bay of Bengal during the monsoon season affect the weather over the district causing locally heavy rain and gusty winds. Occasionally, during October, depressions from Bay of Bengal also affect the weather over the district. Thunderstorms mostly occur during the period March to June, and September and October. The pre monsoon thunderstorms at times are accompanied with hail and squall. Climate plays a decisive role in the diversity either in landscape or in biodiversity of the study region. Due to high rainfall concentrated in one season followed by dry winter and hot summer high biodiversity is developed in the study region. As the characteristic feature of the monsoon climate, the region has variety of plants ranging from xerophytes to monsoon evergreen. This has tremendous potential for tourism development. Tourists normally enjoy visiting different places in different seasons for various purposes. In rainy season, tourists are literally flooded at some places like Lonavala, Sinhgarh, ghats such as Tamahani, Malshej, etc. for experiencing rain bath, viewing beautiful greenery, cascading rapids and water falls. In summer, tourists visit places like Sinhgarh, Bhimashankar to experience cool breeze. In winter tourists prefer to trek in the Sahyadri ranges. Monsoon type of climate has created opportunity for season wise variety of tourism activity in the study area. Thus, there are incredible potential for tourism development with this perspective.

2.5 Soils: The study of soil is important aspect regarding agricultural production and forest growth, which depends upon productivity and fertility of soils. The climate, relief, forest, nature and intensity of weathering, fluvial process etc. are the factors affecting the distribution of soil. The study of soils in the district is based on secondary sources specially soil conservation department of the Pune district. The soils of the district are classified into the main groups viz. Black, Red, Brown soils and Paddy soils.

50 Brown soils: It is clearly observed that the tahsils under study are dominated by red and brown soils. Soils derived from laterised Deccan trap also occur to a small extent in the extreme western part of the districts. The light brown soils or copper coloured soil, which occurred in the higher relief area. It is characterised as coarser in texture and shallower in depth and decayed vegetable element, which deepens the colour of the soils. These soils are always occur in close association with medium black soils. It is founds in the transition tract viz. The eastern part of Khed, Haveli tahsils, the western parts of Purandhar tahsils. The light brown shallow soils have been divided into three sub-groups: A) Very shallow high hill slope soil- these soils occur on the high relief and steep slopes. It is very shallow i.e. only 2.5cm to 7.5 cm deep, and not good for regular cultivation but it is suited for fodder and forests. B) Coarse shallow hill slope soils- the soils also occur in the hilly areas but relatively on moderate slopes and it may be possible to bring under plough. It is slightly deeper as compare to the very shallow soils (7.5cm to 22.5cm.) C) Coarse shallow plateau soils- The soil mainly distributed on gentle slope of plateau region having more depth with 22.5cm to 45cm. It is more convenient to carry out agriculture practice without any serious obstruction. The brown soil often impaired by mixture of gravel, but when watered by frequent showers is generally well suited for wheat and Kharif crops, particularly jowar and bajri.

Black Soil: The black soil belongs, to the plain comprising the eastern part of the district and along the riverbanks. It usually has great and uniforms depth along the large streams. The deep black soils mainly occur in the eastern portion of Khed, and Purandhar tahsils. It is dark brown to grayish black in colour. It is sometimes found wronged by being mixes with lime nodules, and occasionally from the mistreated by over irrigation or the presence of mineral salts. Black soils are richer than other type of soil in the district and it has quality of retaining moisture for longer time and disintegrates instead of becoming stiff due to the sun. There fore the soils are mainly suited for the rabbi crops and specifically suitable for wheat, gram, rabbi jowar and sugarcane. The black soils or 'regur' genetically range between a residual soil with a mature profile and the river borne alluvium of the flood plains to which a large amount of

51 colluviums is also contributed particularly on the margin of the river valleys where it is likely to intermingle with alluvium (Dikshit, 1971).The soils are calcareous, neutral to mild alkaline in reaction high in cation exchange capacity and low in organic matter

Red soil: The red soil called tambdijamin and there are three varieties of red soils: Pure red, upland and sandy. It is characteristic of the high rainfall area of the Western Ghats. The upland is a reddish soil thickly spreads over rock, and has been further classified into two classes according to its depth and quantities of sand and friable stones, namely mal murud land and tambdi malsi lands. The soils are slightly acidic with a mean pH between 5.5 and 6.5, they are dominated by oxide clays, and Kaolinite. Red soil is generally rough and often requires deep ploughing. They are clayey soils with considerable stony component. The poor nutrient status of the soils is traditionally amended by the system of rab, i.e. adding ashes of twigs, leaves and cow dung to the fields and by long period of fallow especially in shifting cultivation. It covers a considerable area in the district and is commonly found in the western portion of the district over the hill slopes east of the paddy lands, in the north, central, and middle portion of the district comprising the tahsils, of Junnar, Ambegaon, Khed, and Purandhar. It is particularly suited for the cultivation of bajri, Kulthi and Matki, groundnuts, and chillies. It is also productive with suitable agricultural inputs including irrigation, acidity tolerant crops, like potatoes, vegetable grow well The problem of erosion is most acute and severe in this trap because of the sloppy nature of lands mostly unprotected by natural vegetation due to over grazing. One of the best-suited crops to these soils and the high rainfall condition is paddy, grown on terraced fields.

Paddy Soil: The soil is famous for its rice cultivation thus called Paddy Soil. A large area of western mountain region and central hilly part called Mawal tract of the Pune district is under paddy soil. The part of the Pune district is fairly famous for its rice cultivation. It covers the most part of the western tahsils namely, Junnar, Ambegaon, Mawal, Mulshi, Velhe, Bhor, and Purandhar, which are located at the base ofsahyadari hills. In general, the soils of high rainfall zone are slightly acidic, low in their contents of salts and nearly free from caco3. The contents of exchangeable bases are also relatively

52 low. Soil is basic resources for agriculture activity. The main economic activity of the study area is agriculture. The study of soil types and relief feature helps to comprehend the scope for agricultural expansion and productivity. Therefore the information of soil and relief may be useful at the time of analysing scope or limitation in agriculture development in the study area and tourism activity is one of the better options for employment generation.

2.6 Vegetation: Forest area of the Pune district covers 1,528 sq. km. The types of vegetation occurring in the different parts of the district are mainly varies with rainfall, altitude, biotic factors and local microclimates. There are 4 type of forest in the district. The dense forest normally observed in western mountains region of high rainfall. The mixed deciduous forest normally observed in central hilly region of medium rainfall, which comprises moist and dry deciduous forest. The shrub forest type is normally observed in eastern zones of low rainfall. The zones of low to high rainfall are varying from 50 cm to 400cm. The study region covers the western mountains region of dense forest and some parts of the mixed deciduous forest of central hilly region.

Monsoon Evergreen forest: The monsoon Evergreen forest (Plate2.10) normally covers on slope of western highly mountains region. Evergreen forests are also very limited in extent even in area with over 200cm rains that are confined to the crest zone of Western ghats, where the character of forest is substantially modified because of edaphic and relief factors. The best example is at Bhimashanker and Ahupe in the Ambegaon tahsil, Anjani (Memecylon Edule), Jumbul (Eugenia Jambolana), Pita (Actiondaphne Hookeri) are the prominent species in this part.

Southern Tropical Semi - Evergreen Forests: In the hilly area close to the Western ghats semi evergreen forest is observed. These require 200 - 250 cm of rain and cover the forest on the slope and lower plateau associated with the Western ghats like Bhimashanker. The semi evergreen forest have a top storey, which is deciduous, but the middle storey is often evergreen. In some places bamboos cover the lower storey of semi evergreen forest.

53 VEGETATION COVER OF THE STUDY AREA

Figure No. 2.4

N •

18 6 Q 12

LEGENDS •••I FOREST COVER ^^^ GRASS COVER I WATER BODIES

I-*.

54 The important trees of the forest are Teak, Khair, Hirda, Jambun,. Further towards the west, as rainfall increase evergreen species with the deciduous. Ain (Terminalia Tomentosa) occurs largely in the drier half, while Kindal (Termianalia Paniculata) and especially Hirda (Terminalia Chebula) in the wetter half of the zone. Hirda is preserved on account of the market for its valuable fruits (Myrobalan). Hirda and Udha Bamboo are the important forest produce of this area. The areas with moderately high rainfall (75-125cm) form the transitional zone between dry deciduous and the moist deciduous type. Further towards the west as rainfall increase evergreen species mingle with the deciduous.

Monsoon Deciduous forest: There are two types of deciduous trees in the zone of moderate rainfall e.g. moist deciduous and dry deciduous. The distinctions between the moist and dry deciduous forest is made on the basis of rainfall and temperature These types are scattered in large part of the district Vegetation sawar, Dhavda, Mango etc. In the moist deciduous type of forest, teak is important particularly in the zone of 80-100 cm isohyets. The area also has a variety of grasses the most common of which is Roshagrass, Musal, Kunda and Sukal. There is a gradual change from scrub to deciduous species as one advance in to the central zone. The dry deciduous forests occurring in patches are found in area with 50-70 cm.

Shrub: It covers rain shadow part of the district e.g. bor limb, etc. sides of the river valley observed narrow belts and bahul along with riverbank. In the areas with less than 60 cm. of rainfall throny shrub sand grasses are observed. Bor (Zizyphus jujuba) polati (Acasia lantronum), Nephtad (Dichrostachys Cinerea), Vagati (Capparis Aphylla) are all typical species of the scrub. The growth of these species is usually small and stunted. Starting in the east at a general altitude of 300m with an average rainfall below 50cm will be found an open forest covered by thorny scrub. With the increasing pressure on land and the need to extend the area under cultivation, the forest have been allowed to stand only in difficult terrain with steep and rocky slope, or on the stony plateau which cannot be cultivated. Unsuitability to agriculture because of adverse relief of edaphic condition in areas of heavy rainfall is what makes the growth of forest a sustained process.

55 The lists of species of the common trees, shrubs and herbs, climbers and grasses have been compiled in four tables i.e. (a) Common Trees, (b) Shrubs and Herbs, (c) Climbers and (d) Grasses. (Ugale, 2006).

Table No. 2.1

Common Trees

Sr. No. Local Names Scientific Names Family Natural order

1 Adal or Kala-Shiras Albizzia odoratissima Leguminosae

2 Ain Terminalia tomentosa Combretaceae

3 Al or Ashi Morinda tinctoria Rubiaceae

4 Amba Mangifera indie a Anacardiaceae

5 Anjan Hardwikia binata Leguminosae

6 Anjani Memecylon edule Melastomaceae

7 Apta Bauhinia racemosa Leguminosae

8 Arjunsadada Terminlia arjuna Combretaceae

9 Asana Bridlia retusa Euphoribiaceae

10 Asta or pair Ficus rumphio Urticaceae

11 Avala Emblica officinalis Euphoribiaceae

12 Babul Acacia Arabica Leguminosae

13 Beheda or Hela Terminalia bellerica Combretaceae

4Bhav a 1 ' Cassia fistula Leguminosae 15 Bhokar Cordia myxa Boraginaceae

16 Bhoma Glochidion lanceolarium Euphorbiaceae

17 Biba Semecarpus anacardium Anacardiaceae

18 Biibiya Pterocaruus marsupium Leguminosae

19 Bor Zizyphus mauritiana Rhamnaceae

20 Bondara Lagerstroemia Parviflora Leguminosae

21 Chandan Santalum album Santalaceae

22 Char (Charoli) Buchanania lanzan Euphorbiaceae

23 Chinch Tamarindus indica Leguminosae

24 Dhaman Grewia tiliaefolia Tiliaceae

25 Dhavda Anogeissus latifolia Combretaceae

26 Gela Randia dumetorum Rubiaceae

27 Hirda Terminalia chebula Combretaceae

28 Jambhul Szyzgium cummini Myrtaceae

29 Kadhinimb Murraya koenigii Rutaceae

30 Kakad Garuga pinnata Burseraceae

31 Kalamb Mintragyna parvifolia Rubiaceae

32 Karanj Pongamia Pinnata Leguminosae

33 Cossia siamea Leguminosae

34 Katak Pridelia retusa Leguminosae 35 Khair Acacia catechu Leguminosae

36 Karwat Ficus asspirima Urticaceae

37 Kinnai Albizzia procera Leguminosae

38 Koshimb / Kusum Schleichera oleosa Sapindaceae

39 Kudi Wrightia tomentosa Apocynaceae

40 Kukvi /Kumkam /Shenan Mallotus philip- inensis Euphorbiaceaae

41 Kumbi Careya arborea Myrtaceae

42 Lullai Alizzia amara Leguminosae

43 Maharukh Ailanthus excelsa Simarubaceae

44 Moha Madhuca indica Sapotaceae

45 Nandruk Ficus microcarpa Urtiaceae

46 Neem Azadirachta indica Meliaceae

47 Nimbara Heynes trijuge Meliaceae

48 Palas Butea Monosperma Leguminosae

49 Pandhari Murray a paniculata Rutaceae

50 Pangara Erythrina variegate Leguminosae

51 Par-jambul Olea dioica Oleaceae

52 Pipal Ficus religiosa Urticaceae

53 Pisa Actinodaphne hookeri Lauraceae

54 Rametha Lasiosiphon eriocephalus Elaeagnaceae

58 55 Ritha Sapindus emarginatus Sapindaceae

56 Rohan Soymida febrifuge Meliaceae

57 Sag (Sagwan) Tectona grandis Verbenaceae

58 Salai Boswellia serrata Burseraceae

59 Sawar Salmalia Malabarica Malvaceae

60 Siras Albizziz lebbek Leguminonsae

61 Shisham Dalbergia latifolia Bixaceae

62 Shivan Gmelina arborea Verbenaceae

63 Tembhurni ( Tendu) Diospyros melanoxylon Ebenaceae

64 Tiwas Ougeinia ougeinensis Leguminosae

65 Umbar Ficus glomerata Urticaceae

66 Vad (Banian) Ficus bengalensis Urticaceae

67 Warang Kydia calcina Malvaceae

68 Varas Heterophragma roxburghii Bignoniaceae

69 Wavala Holoptelea integrifolia Urticaceae Table No. 2.2 Shrubs and Herbs

Sr. No. Local Names Family Natural order Scientific names

1 Adulsa Adhatoda Vasica Acanthaceae

2 Aghada Acyranthes aspera Acanthaceae

3 Akra Strobilanthes reticulatus Acanthaceae

4 Amani Rhus mysurensis Anacardiaceae

5 Bhaman Colebrockea oppositifolia Labiatae

6 Bakora Ixra coccinea Rubiaceae

7 Davna Acanthaceae Stobilanthes scrobiculatus

8 Dhayti Woodfordia fruticosa Lythraceae

9 Dingala Crotalaria retusa Leguminosae

10 Dudhi Euphorbia pothiana Euphorbiaceae

11 Ghaneri Lantana camara Verbenaceae

12 Henkal Mytenus emarginata Celastraceae

13 Hinganbet Balanites agegyptiaca Simarubaceae

14 Karmati Grewia villosa Tiliaceae

15 Karwand Carissa carandus Apocynaceae

16 Karvi Carvia callosa Acanthaceae 17 Kolsura Capparis longispina Capparidaceae

18 Kutri Solannun giganteum Solanaceae

19 Lamtani Anodendron paniculatum Apocynaceae

20 Lokhandi Ixora arborea Rubiaceae

21 Murudseng Helecteris isora Slerculiaceae

22 Mendhi Lythraceae Lawsonia inermis

23 Murmati Acacia aburnea Leguminosae

24 Neptad Capparis decidua Capparidaceae

25 Nirgundi Vitex negundo Verbemaceae

26 Nivdung Euphorbia nerifolia Euphorbiaceae

27 Pangli Pogostemon parvifolorus Labiatae

28 Pandhara-Kuda Holarrhena antidysentricat Apocynaceae

29 Tarvad Cassia suriculata Leguminosae

30 Rui Calatrophis gigantes Asclepiadaceae

31 Sher Euphorbia tirucalli Euphorbiaceae

32 Turna Yiyzphus rugosa Rhamnaceae

33 Wagati Capparis zylanica Capparidaceae Table No. 2.3

Climbers

Sr. No. Local Names Scientific Names Family Natural order

1 Buroi Zizyphus cenopia Rhamnoceae

2 Chilhar Caesalphinia sepiaria Leguminosae

3 Garambi Entada phaseoloides Leguminosae

4 Gunj Abrus precatorius Leguminosae

5 Kuhili Mucuna pruriens Leguminosae

6 Kusar Jasminum malabaricum Cleaceae

7 Sikkai Acacia concinna Leguminosae

Table No. 2.4 Grasses

Sr. No. Local Names Scientific Names Family Natural order

1 Bhale Kusal Andropogan trUlceus Graminae

2 Chirka Eragrostis tremula Graminae

3 Ghanya marvel Andropogan pertusus Graminae

4 Gondal Andropogan pumilus Graminae

5 Haryali Gynoden dactylon Graminae

6 Kunda Ischaemum pilosum Graminae

7 Kusali Andropogon con tortus Graminae

8 Marvel Andropogon contortus Graminae 9 Pandhri Kusal Aristida panciculata Graminae

10 Parangya Ischaemum sulcatum Graminae

11 Phuti Apluda varia Graminae

12 Rosha Andropogon schaencmthus Graminae

13 Sheda Ischaemum laxum Graminae

14 Shimpi Panicum isachne Graminae

15 Wavashi Saccjarum procerum Graminae

The climate determines vegetation type and their extent on the earth, the study area has monsoon type of climate with heavy rainy season. The inaccessibility of the area and the climate results that the area is mainly covered by evergreen, semi evergreen, moist deciduous and broad leafed hill forests. There has been always attraction of forest to tourists for trek in the forest, observation of vegetation, abode of wildlife and picturesque beauty. There is an opinion that the forests can no longer be looked upon only as an economic resource and area for expansion of farmland, but equally as an environmental resource and a habitat for the preservation of wild life and a storehouse for future food and medicine resources. In the case of the study area development of ecotourism is best option to pursue the above opinion.

2.7 Wildlife: The study area has high rainfall, rugged topography with semi evergreen to evergreen forest cover constitutes a good habitat for wildlife. Nowadays wildlife viewing is becoming popular among the tourist. Inaccessible terrain, numerous pockets of dense forest of the study area has become habitat of variety of animals and birds i.e. Shakru, Blue Mormon and Leopard etc. Endangered and threatened species of birds found in Maharashtra are the Bar- headed goose, the Great Indian Bustards, the lesser florican, the Sarus crane, the Darter or snake bird, the White backed vulture, the Black necked stork,

63 the painted bush quail the Indian skimmer, the Red winged crested cuckoo, the Malbar grey hornbill, the Black woodpecker etc. about 12 species are endemic to Western ghats. Leopard is more ubiquitous. According to the census conducted in 1994 -95 in 20 protected area the total number of leopard recorded was 234; but there are many leopard outside the protected area as evident from and Ambegoan tahsils of Pune District, female leopard have been seen to resort to sugarcane fields to give birth to their cubs. Due probably to the paucity of natural food for cubs, leopards have stated attacking domestic animals and even human being. A number of such cases have been recorded in 2000 and 2001. Such leopard have been trapped and released elsewhere by the forest department. Protection of biodiversity involves protection to various ecosystem and habitats that are used by various life forms for their survival and reproductive needs. Therefore, the detail information about the wild life their way of living and role in ecosystem is exciting part for the nature lovers. This has been becoming an important aspect in ecotourism. The wild life species of the study area has given in the table no. 2.5 to 2.7 in carnivorous, herbivorous and birds' category respectively, based on work of Bande (2000).

Table No. 2.5

Carnivorous Animals

Sr. No. Local name Scientific names

1 Panther (Rare), (Panthera pardus)

2 Wild Cat (Common), (Felis-Chaus)

3 Hyena (Common) (Hyaena hvaena)

4 Jackal (Occassional) (Canis aureus)

5 Wild dog (Rare), (Goun alpinus)

6 Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsi)

64 Table No. 2.6

Herbivorous Animals

Sr. No. Local name Scientific names

1 Wild bear (Sus scrofa)

2 Porcupine (Hystrix indica)

3 Barking deer (Muntiacus muntajak)

4 Hare (Lapus nigricollie)

5 Langur (Presbytis entellus)

Table No. 2.7

Birds

Sr. No. Local name Scientific names

1 Peafowl Pavo cristatus,

2 Grey jungle fowl Gallus sonneratti,

3 Grey partridge or titar Francolinus pondicerianus,

4 Moor-hen or Pankombadi Gallinula Chloropus,

5 Spotbill duck Anas poecilor-hyncha,

6 Kokil Endynamys scolopacea,

7 Bulbul Pyononotus iuteolus,

8 Pigeon Columba livia,

Viewing wildlife, understanding their way of living and role in ecosystem has happen to great interest of the tourist. There is opportunity to promote the untapped tourism potential for development of ecotourism that will help tourism development along with conservation of wildlife.

65 66 Plate No.2.11 Ran of Bhatti (Kondhwal) | Plate No.2.12 Nick point (Guheri river)

67 2.8 Historical background: The influence of the physiographic environment on the history of a region is nowhere more apparent than in Deccan, the best illustration of the phenomena of the history affected by its geography. The entire region is characterized by traces of early man's occupance. The fossil tools suggest that the early man was roaming across the region as early as half a million years ago. An excavation in the Bori basin (a tributary of Kukdi) 25 km of south-east of Junnar has revealed the existence of stone age tools and other remnants. The Satvahns dynasty had powerful influence on the . The Satvahans or Aandhrabhrutyas, the first powerful dynasty which ruled the Deccan around 236 B.C. to 230 A.D. Most of the Buddhist devotional and dwelling chambers were carved out of the hard rock of Sahyadri under liberal Satvahan patronage during this period. The Hinyan phase almost coincided with the Satvahan period of around 400 years. The second, Mahayana sect was carried up to the 8th century (During the Vakataks and the Chalukyas periods). In order to protect the cave monasteries as well as the commercial nerves i.e. ghats forts were constructed. Probably the process of cave excavation and pass construction and were parallel and all simultaneously initiated by the Satvahans. The Junnar region and route was then protected by forts , Hadser, Hatkeshwar, Chawand, Jivdhan, Harishchandragad, similar co-existence between the caves of 'Kondane-ambivali' protected by the forts Rajmachi, Bhimgad, Peth-Kthaligad below and 'Karle-Bhaje-Bedse--Shelarwadi' caves guarded by Lohgad, Visapur, Tung, Tikona, above the Borghat. Though recent archaeological excavations at Satanikota have clearly established that the Satvahans were well versed fort builders and the process of fortification in the western Deccan was mainly initiated by them. For quite a few of the Deccan, forts like Shivneri, Ankai, , Kondana (Sinhgad), Purandar, , Devgiri to mention a few, the antiquity of their nuclei, could be traced back to far ancient period. In the second century A.D., Salivahanas dynasty had been ruled the region and had formed a well-organized administrative structure. The successive period had been ruled by Vakatakas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas and the Yadavas and other dynasties. In the early fourteenth century the area passed into the regime of Muslim ruler through a succession of dynasties. There after a new Muslim dynasty called the Bahamani dynasty was established in the Deccan.

68 In the context of the Deccan forts, the role played by the Bahamani dynasty (1347- 1489 A.D.) was very important because during their rule majority of the Deccan forts were either constructed or the old nominal ones were made formidable. At the close of the fifteenth century, the Bahamani Empire was disintegrated into five power centres. Among them Nizamshahi had influence on the region. In the seventeenth century, the great King had established Maratha power and kept number of forts in his power and similarly builded number of the forts in the part of the study area. At the end of eighteenth century and the region passed into the hands of the British after the defeat of Maratha. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, Pune was the seat of power of the political power on the subcontinent. Under the British rule, Pune became the seasonal capital of the . Pune thus continued to hold a significant position in administrative, political and cultural life of western Maharashtra throughout the rule and later even the post independence period. The historical background has remnants in the form of number of caves, forts, temples, which has great heritage value. Mightiest of hill forts, ancient temples, caves and other ancient sites, giant valleys, origin of many rivers, beautiful ghats, many prominent peaks, thick forests full of wildlife, numerous rivers and streams, The backwaters of various dams built over the past decades has given this region the name as 'Lake district' is a trekkers' delight.

2.9 Tourist attractions of the study area: The study area has number places of tourist attractions. The brief information of some prominent places, which are famous for their tourist attraction like historical monuments, ancient caves, ancient temples, beautiful picnic spot have given here to make familiar about the tourist potential of the study area.

Sinhagad Fort: fort is 700 mtrs. high, a favorite picnic spot located 25 Kms from Pune. It has historical importance for historic battle fought by , Shelarmama. Presently the main attractions for the people are bungalows of Lokmanya Tilak, the samadhi of Rajaram Maharaj and Dev tank. Sweet curd, Buttermilk, Kanda bhaji and Pithle-Bhakari. The view of entire Pune city, Panshet, Khadakwasla and Varasgaon dams and Torana fort looks wonderful from the fort.

69 Fig. No. 2i5 TOURIST PLACES OF THE STUDY AREA KhireshwaF Malshej Gha Naneghat Jivdhar Chavand and Kukdeshwar~^T"* t> DaryaghaTT^Hadsaf C Shivner Ahuc

Bhimashankar Bhorgi

Rajmach

Khandal- Lonaval Lohgarh-visapu1 Ti

Tailbel

Tamahani Ghat

Varandh Ghat

Raireshwa 0 5 10 KM

Page no .70 Torana: Its height is 1400 mtrs . This was the first fort won by Shivaji Maharaj.. One can see the temple of Toranaji' and 'toraneshwar' near 'Kothi' door on the fort , but the main temple on the fort is of ' Mengai'. There are two machis on the fort - 'Zunjar Machi' and 'Budhala machi'. Also you can see ' Buruj' , 'Bhel Buruj' , 'Takmak Buruj' and 'Konkan Darwaja' etc. It is one of the popular forts for the trekkers. Purandar Fort: (Plate2.19) Its height is 1390 mts. and standing about 26 km south of Pune, this fort witnessed many battle in Maratha history. It has the twin fort of Wajragad and, in its time, it was a formidable fort. For rock climbers, there are plenty of opportunities. Two main sites are rocks leading to Kedareshwar (Plate2.19) and those on the eastern end of the fort. Shivneri fort: (Plate2.16) Its height is 1018 mts and situated about 3 km from Junnar, this is one of the important historical landmarks in the region. Shivneri is famous for Shivaji's birth. The fort is huge one and with good height. This road has 7 doors till one reaches the actual fort. The places to visit in Shivneri are temple of 'Devi Shivai', birth - place of Shivaji, Kaman Tok, Kadelot Tok , 'Koli Chouthara' and 'Dongarmatha' (the top of the fort). Tung: Tung is one of the difficult forts in Maharashtra. The height of the fort is almost 3500 feet and almost 1200 feet area of the fort is steep ascent. The places to see on the fort are the temple of 'Devi Tungai', temple of 'Devi Tuljai', a small lake and a beautiful cave. Additionally one can enjoy the marvellous view of Lohgad fort and on the north and Tikona on the east and the amazing view of the Pawna dam. Tikona: The fort is of pyramid shape and hence popularly known as Tikona1 or Triangle. The fort is almost 3500 feet high but not difficult to one can reach 6 Kms to Tikona Pern' village from Kale colony near . The trekking is tiresome. There are few monuments on the fort to see like the big doors, the temple of Trimbakeshwar Mahadev', a water tank and few caves of Satvahan era. The view of Pawna dam and other forts like Tung, and Visapur is beautiful. Lohagad-Visapur forts: (Plate2.14) These two forts are historically very crucial and are popular forts for trekkers. They are located at 3400 feet and 3500 feet high respectively. There are 4 doors to Lohagad from the nearby village -Lohgadwadi. i.e. 'Ganesh Darwaja', "Narayan Darwaja',

71 'Hanuman Darwaja' and 'Maha Darwaja'. Some sculptures can also be seen on Maha Darwaja. The famous spot on Lohagad is 'Vinchu Kata' - a range of hills that looks like Capricorn. Visapur situated between Lohagad and Bedse Caves. A huge cannon (almost 10 feet long) on Visapur is very vital as it has an impression of royal crown. Both these forts are of Satwahan era and of great importance in Shivaji's period as to keep watch on Konkan and Bor Ghat. Amazing view of Pawana Dam is also visible from the backside of these two forts. Telbaila: This Telbaila Mountain is a 1013 mts. tall structure of two gigantic walls. From here two footstep ghats are towards Konkan. Despite being frighteningly huge, one can easily reach at its foot. In the middle of the pass are water tanks and deity at the side. Reaching the walls, a sight has amazed surrounding. Jivdhan (1145m): An important historical fort is standing at the edge of the ghats. To the west, its walls drop a sheer 1000 m into the Konkan. It has a prominent isolated pillar, about 60 m high, known as Vanar Lingi (Monkey's Point). It commands an excellent view across the Nane Ghat. With its grand view, historical importance and commanding position, Jivdhan is an interesting fort to visit. Ohakoba: This prominent hill stands at the edge of the range, overlooking the Konkan on the west and over the Mina valley to Junnar on the east. It commands one of the finest views and has a sheer drop of 1100 m to the Konkan. An excellent temple halfway below the top, at 1109 m, from where the Mina river originates as per the local benefits. Killa: Situated half-way between Amboli and Ahupe ghat, this hill {1175 m) is necessarily long and inconvenient to approach. But the surrounding beauty and isolation are inviting. It has a small square top amidst dense forest. A small temple surrounded by forest at its base is a beautiful place where one can spend a night. fort: It is one of the most interesting places to hike to from Lonavla. The route to the base of this isolated (929 m) is full of vegetation, flowers and a variety of stones. The thick forest is recommended for camping in. A cross-country walk can be undertaken in winter, or in the full fury of the . There are two caves and also a ruined temple. A good view of Mulshi Lake can be had from here.

72 Raireshwar: A prominent 8 km long plateau (1398 m), lying southwest of Bhor. The teen-aged Shivaji vowed in a temple here to establish a Swarajya. It is still a place of worship. The two temples offer shelter and perennial water. There is a small village at the top. A long zigzag ridge connects the plateau to . Kenjalgad: This fort (1302 m) straddles the ridge joining from Raireshwar. This is a dividing line with the valley in the south.. There is a huge tunnel-cum-cave near the top and an excellent view. Rajmachi: Rajmachi fort is nearby 18/20 Kms from Lonavala but a nice way to reach the fort is from Tungarli Lake. Rajmachi consists of two beautiful peaks namely 'Shrivardhan' and 'Manaranjan'. They can also be considered as two separate forts. A temple of 'Bhairoba' is very beautiful Manaranjan consists of strong walls, 3 doors and many water tanks. The old caves of 'Kondhavi' on Rajmachi fort are worth to see. One can enjoy a nice forest, Tungarli lake and many waterfalls as well. Chawand: This hill fort (1065 m) lies to the south of the Junnar-Rajur road. The chief strength of Chawand lies in its great natural defence. It is ruined and dismantled fort and conical in shape and a prominent landmark. The deep narrow precipice near the summit is an interesting rock climbing proposition. On the top is a small shrine of Chawandbal and the hill is considered sacred in the region. Karle Caves: (Plate2.13) The Karle caves (Buddhist Hinyan.lst century B.C. to 1st century A.D) are considered to be ultimate expression of Satwahan art of Hinayana sculpture. Karle is 5-7 k.m. from Malavali near Lonavala. The finest and well preserved chaityagriha in Karle is probably the biggest of all in Maharashtra. Stupa still preserves wooden chhatra or umbrella The goddess here is known by various names, viz: Yamai, Ambamata, Renuka, Parshuram Mata etc. the place is also famous for temple. Bhaje Caves: It is a group of 18 caves, 5-7 k.m. from Malavali near Lonavala. In the 12 cave is the Chaityagriha. Hinayan panthi Buddhist 2nd to 1st cent. B.C. One of the earliest caves in the region. Vault beams of the interior of chaitya are wooden, this wood found to be 250 B.C+150 years,. Figures of Dwarpal guardians. Five armed figure in the niches on the east

73 side of Verandah hall. Relief depicting on his Chariot and on elephant- Airavat. The sculpture indicates imfluence of the Sang-art. Bedse Caves: The period can be traced back up to 1st century b.c. a Hinayan. Imposing facade of the chaitya. In the sanctorum dancing figures of men -women, well dressed, wearing ornaments studded with jewellery, animals like horse, elephants, and octagonal pillars are observed. : It an ancient Hinayan Buddhist caves and located 5 km north of Junnar. Its chaitya is remarkable for several sculptures. Specially two female-faced Sphinx images resting on pillars and word 'Yavan' meaning 'Greek' is observed in inscriptions indicating process of interaction between civilizations. A red -lead coated Ganesh idol, popularly Known as 'Girijatmak', was installed in this cave. Khadakwasla: Khadakwasla, Panshet and Varasgaon are the three major dams near Pune, which provides water to entire Pune city. is big one and many people enjoy their Sunday and holiday evenings here. The amazing view of Sinhagad and is again a major attraction of Khadakwasla. It has a military importance, as National Defense Academy (NDA) here is very famous in Indian Military History. Panshet: It is one of the popular places near Pune for picnic lovers. One can have a nice road to Panshet surrounded by dark green woods. Panshet and Varasgaon dams now a day are Popular because of water sports here that include speed boats and water scooters etc. Mulshi: and the surroundings are full of natural beauties that include a dam, region of Sahyadri's deadly hills and deep forests. The beauty of Mulshi lake can be observed from 'Valanewadi' - 6 Kms. from Mulshi. The hills of and hill ranges of 'Hattihant' and 'Pagota' are huge ones and terrific. Some of these hills are almost 4000 feet high. One must enjoy the marvelous lake, the dam, forest and hilly region of Mulshi. Ahupe Ghat: This is a gentle pass which connects Dehri-Khopivli in the Konkan to Ahupe village on the ghats. It is a beautiful climb amidst thick forest. This is a good pass for climbing Damdamia-Bhimashankar in the south and Durga Killa-Dhakoba in the north.

74 : Malshej Ghat is one of the popular in Maharashtra because of the beauty of nature, nice view of valleys, huge ranges of Sahyadri, amazing view of Harishchandragad and many other forts. It is situated on the borders of Pune , and districts. It is really very attractive when it is under dark clouds and heavy fog. Heavy fog and amazing waterfalls are the spatiality of Malshej Ghat especially in monsoon. Truly a famous place near Malshej Ghat is Khireshwar, famous for Hemingo birds. These birds come here every year from between July and September. It's really an amazing view. Through Khireshwar village, one can visit the famous Harishchandragadh also. Lonavala-Khandala: These are very known of hill stations of Maharashtra. As the place is popularly known, it will be wise to list the points or places that are worth visiting here. Lonavala is very famous for Chikki. INS Shivaji - A Navy training center also makes Lonavala a vital place. There are number of dams, caves and forts in and tourist attraction around the famous tourist places Lonavala and Khandala e.g. Nagphani or Dukes Nose, Vaghdari Bhimashankar: Bhimashankar is 128 kms. away from Pune. It has full of natural beauty and lovely scenery and is a good paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, jungle lovers and bird watchers. The best seasons to go to Bhimashankar are monsoon and winter. There is a beautiful temple of Lord , which is one of the 12 in India. Various places that could be visited in Bhimashankar are Hanuman Lake, Gupt Bhimashankar, Origin of River Bhima, Nag Phani, Bombay Point, Sakshi Vinayak and lot more. Bhimashankar is conserve red forest area and wildlife sanctuary where a variety of birds, animals, flowers, plants can be seen. A rare animal "Shekru" can be found in deep woods and provides company to the Hanuman langurs, barking deer, wild pigs and the Blue Mormon butterfly Bhimashankar is worth visited for jungle lovers and trekkers as well as for pilgrims. Baneshwar:

Baneshwar is just 35 kms. to the south of Pune. It is developing as a picnic spot having an old but beautiful temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated in dark woods - known as Ban (Jungle) - and hence it is called as 'Baneshwar'. The main entrance, light stand, Dharamshalas , 2 clean water tanks, a big bell are good to see. There are idols of

75 Devi Laxmi , Lord and Lord Mahadev in the temple. Truly, Baneshwar is a place where you can enjoy with family and friends. Waterfalls of Takve - wadeshvar: It is can be visited from Pune - Lonavala by road or railway, aside . Ahead of village from 2 km till Wadeshvar dam, some 10-20 small and big waterfalls can be found. At the mere mention of a waterfall, many can feel the splash and sprinkle on their bodies. But this nature's splendour can be witnessed only in the period from June to December. There approximately 25 km spread reservoir has a road through dense green trees towards the west side till Khandi village. Bhandara: The Bhandara hills - a formal place of residence of the spiritual gems of Maharashtra Sant Tukaram. Bhandara falls on -Pune Highway and 7-8 Km away from highway towards west. The Bhamchandra caves were of utmost pleasure of tukaram. The beauty of the cave, the Mahadev temple is fascinating one. Tamhini: Distance: 60 km take a drive down to the Mulshi dam and further down, the road diverts to the right towards Tamhini forest. It is an in desirable ghat, amazing mountains, deep valley all nature's phenomenal in beautiful form. One of the last few forests existing in the vicinity of Pune, dense patch of 'Deorai', the Blue Mormon butterfly and various types of fungi, which constitute a sign of unpolluted and bountiful forests. In rainy season, this whole place is showered with rains pouring from the blanket of clouds covering it. Vinzai Devi Temple is a beautiful constructed in Tamhini village. NaneGhat:.(Plate2.17) It is 2nd -1st century B. C. old and located 27 Km north -West of Junner. The only cave, a hall 8.72 sq. mt. and 2.4 mt. high, it carries the important pages and inscriptions carved out by the Satvahan queen Nagnika, depicting thereby the social , economic, religious and political life of the ancient Deccan.. This Naneghat royal portrait sculpture, the earliest figure sculpture of the Satvahan period undoubtedly represents the first example of any portrait sculpture in India. Kukdeshwar: It is located near Junnar on Junnar to Aptale road, at a distance of 2 km from here nestled in lush green trees at the origin of Kukdi river. It is an ancient Kukdeshwar's Shiv temple famous for rock carvings and sculptured work. This temple would have been massive in ancient times. It has been savaged by time.

76 2.10 Resume: In this chapter it has been attempted to understand the natural factor like physiography, geology, climate, flora and fauna etc with perspective of ecotourism development. Similarly, general review of historical background of the study area has been studied to focus on cultural heritage of the study area. The information about nature base tourist places and cultural heritage have shown that in the study area tourism potential is significant. Thus, the aspect of the study would not only be helpful to know characteristics of the natural factors and cultural richness but also to recognise the potential for the development of ecotourism in the study area.

77 Rich Heritage of the Study Area

Plate No.2.13 Karla Caves Plate No. 2.14 Lohgarh in rainy season.

Plate No.2.15 Kukdeshwar temple-Heritage Plate No. 2.16 Shivneri fort (Junnar)

Plate No. 2.17 Nane Ghat (Junnar) Plate No.2.18 Shiv temple (Hemadpanthi)

78 Plate No. 2.19 Kedareshwar (Purandar) Plate No. 2.20 talav in

Plate No. 2.21 British church (Purander) Plate No. 2.22_River ghat ()

79 Plate No. 2.25 Konkan view (Ahupe) Plate No. 2.26 Dimbhe dam

Plate No. 2.27 Rainy season. Plate No. 2.28 Express way

Plate No. 2.29 Jain temlpe in Dimbhe dam Plate No. 2.30 View of Pawana and Tung Plate No.2.31 View along the ghats. Plate No.2.32 Green cover

Plate No.2.33 Series of waterfall (Malshej) Plate No.2.34 Waterfall (Ahupe)

81