The wildlife in Shirui National Park includes several rare and endangered species. Notable mammals include the clouded leopard, Asiatic black bear, and various species of wild cats. The park is also home to numerous bird species, including the Blyth's tragopan, Mrs. Hume's pheasant, and various hornbill species. Several species of butterflies and insects add to the park's biodiversity.
The park's vegetation consists primarily of subtropical and temperate forests. Besides the iconic Shirui Lily, the park hosts numerous orchid species, rhododendrons, and medicinal plants. The forest canopy includes oak, pine, and various broadleaf species. The unique microclimate and soil conditions have created specialized ecological niches that support several endemic plant species found nowhere else in the world.
The park is situated in the Shirui hill range at elevations ranging from 1,780 to 2,835 meters above sea level. The terrain consists of steep hillsides and rocky outcrops formed from ancient metamorphic rocks. The soil is generally shallow and acidic, creating unique growing conditions that support specialized plant communities, including the famous Shirui Lily which grows nowhere else in the world.
The park was established primarily to protect the endangered Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), which was discovered in 1948 by English botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward. The area was designated as a National Park in 1982 in recognition of its unique biodiversity and the presence of this rare lily species. The Shirui Lily holds deep cultural significance for the local Tangkhul Naga tribe, who have traditionally been the guardians of these hills and the flower.
The most distinctive feature of Shirui National Park is the presence of the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), which blooms only once a year in April-May. The peak of Shirui Kashong offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular trekking destination. The park also features several viewpoints, hiking trails, and opportunities for nature photography. The local Tangkhul Naga culture and their traditional conservation practices add to the park's unique character.
Shirui National Park experiences a moderate subtropical climate typical of Manipur's higher elevations. Summers (March to May) are mild with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, while winters (November to February) can be quite cool with temperatures dropping to 4-15°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings substantial rainfall, making the park lush and green but also potentially difficult to access. The best time to visit is between March and May, especially in April when the famous Shirui Lily blooms.
India
24.4830°, 94.0170°
1982
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Sirohi National Park is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. The park features dense forests and is home to various endangered species. It serves as an important wildlife corridor in the northeastern region of India.