The park harbors an impressive array of wildlife, including several endangered species. Large mammals found here include Bengal tigers, Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, leopards, and Indian elephants. The park is also home to various deer species like sambar and barking deer, and primates such as common langurs and Malabar giant squirrels. Bird life is particularly rich with over 250 species recorded, including the Malabar pied hornbill, great Indian hornbill, and various eagles. The park also supports numerous reptile species, including king cobras and monitor lizards, along with diverse butterfly populations.
Mollem National Park hosts a rich diversity of vegetation types, primarily consisting of moist deciduous forests interspersed with semi-evergreen and evergreen forests. The park boasts over 722 plant species, including valuable timber trees like teak, rosewood, and jamun. The understory is rich in medicinal plants, bamboo groves, and various species of wild orchids. Notable flora includes Terminalia crenulata, Lagerstroemia lanceolata, and several endemic species of the Western Ghats. The forest canopy reaches heights of up to 30 meters, creating distinct vegetation layers that support diverse wildlife habitats.
The park is situated in the Western Ghats, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, characterized by ancient metamorphic rock formations dating back millions of years. The terrain consists of steep hills, deep valleys, and numerous streams carved through basalt and laterite rock formations. The landscape is marked by distinctive red laterite soil, typical of the Western Ghats region. The park's elevation ranges from 200 to 900 meters above sea level, creating diverse microclimates and ecological niches. The Dudhsagar Falls, cascading from a height of 310 meters, represents one of the most dramatic geological features in the park.
Formerly known as Mollem Game Sanctuary, this protected area was established in 1969 and later upgraded to National Park status in 1978. The park encompasses ancient trade routes that connected the coastal regions of Goa to the Deccan Plateau. Historical remnants within the park include the 12th-century Tambdi Surla Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Goa, showcasing intricate Kadamba-era architecture. The region played a significant role during Portuguese colonial times as a crucial transit point for spice trade, and several old bridges and pathways from this era can still be found within the park boundaries.
The park's most famous attraction is the spectacular Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. The ancient Tambdi Surla Temple, with its intricate stone carvings, provides historical significance. The Devil's Canyon, a deep gorge formed by the Dudhsagar River, offers dramatic landscapes and hiking opportunities. The park features several trekking trails, including the popular route to Dudhsagar Falls and the Nature Interpretation Center, which provides educational information about the park's ecosystem. The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, which encompasses the national park, offers additional protected areas for wildlife viewing and nature appreciation.
Mollem National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate typical of the Western Ghats region. The park receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, with annual precipitation averaging 2,500-3,000mm. Summers (March to May) are warm and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C, while winters (December to February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is comfortable and wildlife viewing opportunities are optimal. The post-monsoon period brings lush greenery and active waterfalls, making it particularly scenic.
India
15.3750°, 74.2640°
1978
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Mollem National Park is a rich biodiversity hotspot located in the Western Ghats of Goa. The park features tropical evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and numerous waterfalls. It is home to several endangered species including black panthers, Bengal tigers, and various species of birds.