Sita Bhoomi - A lonely mountain and grasslands of sky
Call it bounties of nature or ecologically sensitive area.The place holds a magical and mystical charm for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The place abounds in scenic beauty with grasslands, sholas, flora - and fauna, and myriad vistas to greet the onlooker. The high cliffs and undulating grass slopes are a visual treat and a sight to behold. That's Sita Bhumi, a lonely mountain massif. A place venerated highly and a treasure trove of surprises at all times!
Vishwanath Radhakrishna
3
796
Imagine a chain of mountains, that stands aloof as a sentinel guarding the park. Her grace is such that no one can match or surpass it. It was a dream of mine for more than 2 decades to get a glimpse and embrace the bliss-giving mountain Call it a boon or a dream which came as a blessing after constant penance finally turned my dream into reality. to unveil this pristine beauty and sheer bliss. After a lot of furious attempts and preparation. I finally we set out after special permission from the required department & also one of them was willing to join our team. After a lot of surprises, we hit the trail one fine morning. The previous day's showers had left the trail a bit damp and dispersed clouds made the day a bit humid.
After a few minutes’ walk we began to climb the grasslands. Clasping the slippery grass, ( Arundinella mesophylla ) balancing on one side, and witnessing the scenic beauty around. The richness of the place began to unfold dramatically and the most pristine forest and, sholas face to face, still Untouched.
An uncharted wilderness lay before us
Across our journey, we found fresh droppings of Indian Gaur - Bos Gaurus, which roam freely across the park and it seemed to be the habitation of these giant mammals in surrounding areas. Though we were not fortunate to see them, we firmly believe that we are in their territory. We could hear the call of spotted deer, and catch a glimpse of a bee-eater soaring through the sky. We started to negotiate along thick forests & finally, we entered the bottom of one big open grassland mountain.
As the clouds moved the whole mountain began to glow in a myriad of colours. A sight to behold and walking in greenish grasslands touching on a cool breeze between uncountable undulating landscapes around., Open hilltops and dew-drenched rocky bluffs were a tremendous experience. Once I literally felt this was a real paradise on earth.
I stopped again and again to meet the winged beauties fluttering around. The tiny Ceraunus blue butterfly (Hemiargus ceraunus) posed for a long time sitting on a blade of grass to try my photography skills. The Common Pierrot ( Castalius rosimon ) made me descend unknowingly the slippery slopes
We were however warned of wading through high grass
growing precariously on slopes and were razor sharp indeed !.
We could gaze at the shola forest below and the canopy. The mist-drenched forest and trees here are characterized by their growth, with low to medium-sized Trees showing stunted growth with spreading canopy and foliage of different colors. In different shades of green and vibrant colors. Many endemic flora and fauna, orchids occur in these forests with extreme microclimatic conditions.
The vast valley adjoining the ridge made me stop, every minute. I could spot bi-color Persian violet flowers in full bloom, dotting the valley
a decoction and orally taken for many ailments.
As I peeped into the valley, I could catch a glimpse of bright-colored flowers that drew my attention. The flowers looked familiar to me.
It was none other, than the flower that was in flame burning in the midst of the forest. ( The State flower of Jharkhand )
The Flame of the Forest
I could see a few flowerpeckers, visiting the tree and the chirping sound of the babblers echoed in the valley. The bright-colored flowers and blue sky in the backdrop were the perfect setting for the orchestra.
We moved through the grass . After crossing each mountain, another new group invited us. Each slope, each group of hill ranges, and each ascent would open a new world in front of us. It doubled our curiosity as a child and our energy at each level.
We we cleared the slopes, we were nearing the abode of Devi. We could see Gangri Kal 4678 ft, Gurige Gudda, Kurinji Kal rising above the backwater of Lakhya dam, Ajji Gudda 2851 ft. I was spellbound to witness the shimmering water and bird eye view of the submerged tree stems cropping out and the reflections were a sight to behold
As we climbed higher and higher, the mountain vistas began to change and greet us. The backwater and island dwarfed in submerged water and blue mountains were a sight to behold. The light and shadow plan was a never-ending drama. It was a killer climb altogether. By the time we reached the Kallu baaRe - a black rocky cliff said to be the abode of the bliss-giving goddess. All were exhausted and the whole ridge running across the park was a sight to behold, memories to cherish, of greatest achievement, and a sense of satisfaction for few. Indeed! , for me embracing her is like memories and moments shared with a mother that will last forever.
The valley on the other side was yet another store of surprises. I felt that there was no force on Earth more powerful than a mother's love.
Finally, we bid goodbye and set foot on the grass patch, with a sense of fulfillment!
