Here’s a detailed and easy-to-read guide to the Pilikula Arboretum Hills, located near Mangaluru, Karnataka:
🌿 Pilikula Arboretum Hills
📍 Location & Basics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pilikula Nisargadhama, Vamanjoor, Mangaluru, Karnataka |
| Elevation | ~100–150 meters (gentle hill terrain) |
| Region | Coastal Karnataka, Western Ghats fringe zone |
| Managed By | Karnataka Forest Department, with support from local eco groups |
| Nearby Landmarks | Pilikula Zoo, Science Centre, Botanical Garden, Lake |
🌱 What is the Pilikula Arboretum?
The Pilikula Arboretum is a conservation park dedicated to preserving native plant species of the Western Ghats, located on low wooded hills within the Pilikula Nisargadhama eco-education complex.
It covers over 35 hectares, and is home to over 700 species of rare and endangered flora, including medicinal and endemic plants — many of which are disappearing from natural forests.
🥾 Walking & Nature Trails
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Paved and unpaved nature paths |
| Difficulty Level | Easy – suitable for all age groups |
| Trail Duration | 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on route |
| Features | Gentle hills, interpretive signboards, shady canopies |
| Accessibility | Good – family and school-friendly |
🌿 Ecological Importance
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Flora | Over 700 species of trees and plants from the Western Ghats |
| Special Zones | Medicinal plant garden, bamboo collection, sacred groves |
| Conservation | Acts as a living gene bank for native forest species |
| Landscape | Shola patches, low hills, grasslands, and water bodies |
🐦 Birdwatching & Wildlife
The arboretum and nearby Pilikula area are home to:
- Common Birds: Paradise flycatchers, drongos, sunbirds, hoopoes, peafowl
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Monitor lizards, frogs, turtles
- Insects: Butterflies, dragonflies, and native pollinators
Best time for birdwatching: early morning (6:30–8:30 AM)
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Notes |
|---|---|
| October–February | Cool and green; perfect for nature walks |
| March–May | Warmer, but trails are still walkable |
| June–Sep | Lush during monsoon; may be slippery |
🎟️ Entry & Timing
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Timings | 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (all days except Monday) |
| Entry Fee | ₹30–₹50 (may vary for different age groups) |
| Guided Tours | Available on request or for school groups |
| Photography | Allowed (no drones without permission) |
🛣️ How to Reach Pilikula Arboretum
By Road
- From Mangaluru City: ~12 km (30 minutes by car or auto)
- Local buses and taxis available from State Bank/KSRTC Bus Stand
By Train
- Nearest Station: Mangaluru Central (~13 km)
- Auto or taxi available from the station
By Air
- Mangalore International Airport (IXE) – ~11 km away
🏡 Nearby Attractions
| Place | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pilikula Zoo (Dr. Shivaram Karanth Biological Park) | Adjacent | Wildlife park with open enclosures |
| Pilikula Lake | Within complex | Boating, birdwatching, scenic views |
| Pilikula Regional Science Centre | Within complex | Planetarium, science exhibits |
| Manasa Water Park | Nearby | Family amusement and water rides |
| Kadri Park & Hills | ~10 km | City park with garden and musical fountain |
📋 Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Arboretum (botanical forest reserve) |
| Terrain | Low wooded hills (~100–150 m elevation) |
| Activities | Walking, birdwatching, plant studies |
| Best Season | October to February |
| Entry | Paid, open daily except Mondays |
| Nearby Facilities | Washrooms, parking, cafeteria, eco shops |
| Managed By | Karnataka Forest Department & Pilikula Trust |