Amidst the Agumbe Rainforest lies the headquarters of the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) situated in the Western Ghats in South India. The ARRS works in the conservation and research organisation field. This centre houses a bunch of enthusiastic conservationists, biologists and researchers who make pretty interesting roommates. They work towards preserving this land full of greenery, flora and fauna. Untouched by urbanisation, they aim to keep it that way. If you are fascinated by the wildlife of Agumbe and how it supports and plays a huge part in our ecosystem, then this place is just for you.
History Of Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
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The famous Indian herpetologist Romulus Whitaker established the research station in 2005. He was instantly interested when he first saw a King Cobra here and how the locals revered it rather than showing the usual signs of fear. He knew he had to do something about preserving the culture and habitat for all the flora and fauna in Agumbe. Hence he developed the centre.
Now, several biologists, herpetologists, and researchers work here, and quite often, researchers worldwide live here to conduct their studies. The land where the centre is constructed does not disturb nature in any manner and they participate in eco-friendly activities to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the rainforest.
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Activities Conducted By ARRS
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The biggest achievement of ARRS is their radio-telemetry project on a King Cobra which has never been done in the world and it is the very first time a radio-telemetry was conducted in India. This study has allowed them to learn more about their nature and their unique behaviours that allow them to take care of them efficiently without causing the snakes or themselves any harm. A very rare behaviour they have found is that male snakes could kill pregnant female snakes, which is extremely unusual for mammals. Their projects are of a large variety, including socio-economics, geoinformatics, behavioural and population ecology, rainforest ecology, and phenology.
They also have a volunteer programme that encourages people to participate in understanding their nature and help it grow while conserving it in all the right ways. Their focus on education has allowed them to reach a variety of institutions such as schools, colleges and the local communities around them. They are always open and happy to welcome graduates and PhD students to visit and conduct their studies.
Tips To Travel To Agumbe
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- Tourists must have permission from the DFO of the Shimoga Division or the Range Forest Officer of Megaravalli to maintain the forest. These permissions are required for treks to waterfalls in Agumbe like the Onake Abbi Falls.
- As it is a rainforest, leeches are not strangers to this place. It is best to keep anti-leech socks, salt, a paste of coconut oil and tabaco to control any problems.
- The Agumbe Rainforest receives rainfall quite often which means the chances of getting drenched is likely, therefore, it is advised to all to carry necessary gear at all times.
- The rainforest is home to a lot of wildlife, which must not be disturbed. People should always remember that they are the guests, not the forest’s inhabitants.
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How To Reach Agumbe
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By Air: The closest airport is the Mangalore Airport, which is located 101 km from the ARRS which will take about 2 to 3 hours.
By Rail: Udupi Railway Station is around 55 km away from the centre, which is the closest train station in the vicinity.
By Road: Nearby cities like Mangalore, Shimoga, and Udupi have buses that commut to Agumbe. There are KSRTC buses available from Bangalore as well. If you choose to take a road trip from Bangalore then the route is to reach Shimoga from Tumkur, divert to Thirthahalli before you take another diversion to Agumbe.
Things To Do In Agumbe
There are a plethora of things to do in and near the vicinity of Agumbe Here is a well curated list of captivating things to do at Agumbe to make your trip most memorable.
1. Volunteer At ARRS
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The ARRS offers a volunteer and research internship programme for all enthusiastic researchers and scholars who would like to conduct their research in the Agumbe Rainforest. You can spend your spare time stargazing, identifying forest trails, learning how to set up camera traps, and many more interesting things.
2. Narasimha Parvatha Trek
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This mountain stands at an impressive height of 3800ft, the trek to the tallest peak in Agumbe starts from Malandur village. The journey to the top offers amazing sights such as the Barakana Waterfalls, thick rainforests and all its inhabitants that you will be in awe of.
3. White Water Rafting
Sita River gives tourists the perfect opportunity to ride its wild water. The distance of the rafting journey can vary from 15 to 30 km. Many travelling agencies offer this experience as a package with other fun activities.
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With the ultimate guide to your adventures in the Western Ghats, it is time you run and book your trip to Karnataka, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station to calm the nature geek in you and enjoy learning about all the animals, birds and insects the rainforest is home to.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
What are the main attractions in Agumbe?
There are several tourist attractions that you can visit in Agumbe like the Sunset View Point, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station, trekking trails like the Nishani Gudda and beautiful waterfalls like Onake Abbi Falls, Koodlu Theertha Falls, and Barkana Falls.
What kind of clothes should you carry to Agumbe?
Tourists must carry rainproof gear, trekking shoes, leech socks, insect repellants, and carry light, breathable clothing.
What is Agumbe famous for?
Agumbe is often referred to as the ‘Cherranpunju of the South’ as it rains very heavily and for its amazing, lush green rainforests that have diverse flora and fauna.
Who founded the ARRS?
The famous Indian herpetologist, Romulus Whitaker founded the ARRS in 2005.
When is the best time to visit ARRS?
The best time to visit the ARRS is during post-monsoon and winter months from November to February as the weather is pleasant and cool and the beauty of the forest is even brighter due to the rains.
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