Taljai
View of Pune taken from the top of the hill of Taljai
Highest point
Elevation2,000 ft (610 m)
Coordinates18°28′32″N 73°49′41″E / 18.4754554°N 73.8279674°E / 18.4754554; 73.8279674
Geography
Parent rangeWestern Ghats
Climbing
Easiest routeThrough the Shivaji Maratha College campus

Taljai is a hill located in the heart of Pune, India that has been designated as a wildlife reserve. The road to this hill passes through the Shivaji Maratha College campus with a picturesque mountain path, with sharp turns. Near the entrance of the forest is a temple to the hill's namesake Taljai mata; a Hindu goddess.

The reserve attracts migratory birds and is home to peacocks. The location is therefore popular with amateur bird watchers and ornithologists.[1][2] A recent study concluded that the lake at Taljai is dying due to dumping of plastic waste.[3]facing issues to maintain its original form due to urbanization. Several organisations are running campaigns to raise the issue. The park is open for visitors from 5 to 10 in the mornings and from 4:30 to 7:00 in the evenings. Vehicles are prohibited in the area.

References

  1. ^ Kakodkar, N.H., 2013. Bio-Diversity of the Pavati-Pachgaon Hills: A 'Habitat Island' in Pune Metropolis. Mammalia, 15, p.24.[1][dead link]
  2. ^ Bhaskar, P., 2012. "Urbanization and changing green spaces in Indian cities (Case study–City of Pune)". International Journal of Geology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2, pp. 148–156.
  3. ^ Raut, R., Desai, S., Bapat, R. and Kharat, S., 2000. Aquatic Insects and Molluscs of Pune City. Journal of Ecological Society, pp.13-14.[2]
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