World Rainforest Day is commemorated worldwide on June 22 to enhance understanding of the essential functions these ecosystems serve for our planet. These vibrant landscapes…
1/101. Assam: Nestled within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, Assam’s rainforests are ancient, thick, and exceptionally humid. Dubbed the “Amazon of the East,” they are home to myriad species of plants and animals. The dense woods also provide crucial habitat for the Asian elephant, leopards, gibbons, and the iconic Indian one-horned rhinoceros, among other wildlife. (Image: Canva)
2/102. Meghalaya: The rainforests of Meghalaya are among the northernmost true tropical rainforests globally. They receive over 11,000 mm of rainfall annually, offering sanctuary to endemic species like the pitcher plant and the clouded leopard. Most of the forest is community-managed, with locals safeguarding hundreds of “Sacred Groves” out of reverence for local deities. (Image: Canva)
3/103. Karnataka: Set in the central Western Ghats, Karnataka’s rainforests are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage biodiversity hotspot. Often referred to as the “Cherrapunji of South India”, the renowned Agumbe rainforest experiences some of the highest rainfall in India, creating a lush, misty environment abundant with unique flora and wildlife. (Image: Canva)
4/104. Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh’s rainforests embody a pristine, biodiversity-rich ecosystem in the Eastern Himalayas. Characterized by dense canopies, deep river valleys, and high humidity (over 80%), these ancient forests host an intricate network of canes, bamboos, and wild bananas. This region supports over 500 species of orchids and 52 varieties of rhododendrons, and serves as the natural habitat for the Hoolock Gibbon, tigers, clouded leopards, elephants, and the elusive red panda found at higher altitudes. (Image: Canva)
5/105. Tamil Nadu: The rainforests in Tamil Nadu mark the southern tip of the Western Ghats. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are inhabited by tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous endemic species. The towering upper canopies often reach heights of 40 metres, obscuring direct sunlight. The undergrowth is rich with ferns, mosses, and over 175 species of orchids. (Image: Canva)
6/106. Kerala: Kerala’s rainforests are among the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Boasting towering canopies, lush greenery year-round, and high rainfall, they play a crucial role as ecological anchors and climate stabilizers for the region. Iconic endemic wildlife includes the endangered lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri tahr. (Image: Canva)
7/107. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The rainforests of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a lush, vibrant ecosystem that covers about 86% of the islands’ area. These dense tropical forests showcase a diverse mix of Indian, Burmese, and Malaysian flora and fauna. The canopy includes towering trees such as Dipterocarpus and the highly prized Andaman redwood. The intricate undergrowth is rich with epiphytes, rare orchids, and tree ferns, while the untouched interiors are home to indigenous and vulnerable groups like the Shompens and Great Andamanese. (Image: Canva)
8/108. Maharashtra: Predominantly located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Western Ghats, these lush, misty forests receive over 2500 mm of rainfall annually, fostering highly biodiverse ecosystems. The region is characterized by dense canopies, rushing waterfalls, and unique wildlife. (Image: Canva)
9/109. Goa: Situated in the biodiversity hotspot of the Western Ghats, Goa’s rainforests are lush emerald havens teeming with dense vegetation, towering canopies, and wildlife. This region is characterized by cascading waterfalls and endemic species. (Image: Canva)
10/1010. Nagaland: Approximately one-sixth of Nagaland’s total area is covered by these dense, moisture-abundant forests. Lowland areas feature tropical hardwoods like mahogany, while higher elevations are dominated by lush subtropical pines. The region is home to around 100 species of wild orchids, large bamboo patches, hoolock gibbons, Bengal tigers, sloth bears, clouded leopards, the rare pangolin, and the Mithun, the state animal. (Image: Canva)
