About Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site
Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site is Tamil Nadu's first Biodiversity Heritage Site, notified in 2022 under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Located in Arittapatti and Meenakshipuram villages in Melur Taluk, Madurai District, it covers 193.215 hectares of rocky hillocks, scrub forest and water bodies including Anaikondan tank. It is notable for rich biodiversity, ancient Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, Jain rock beds and megalithic structures.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a semi-arid landscape of seven rocky hillocks, scrub forest, grasslands and seasonal water bodies including the historic Anaikondan tank. The site offers nature trails through native flora and fauna, birdwatching opportunities, and access to archaeological features such as Jain cave beds with stone berths, 2nd century BCE Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, and megalithic dolmens. There are no major built tourist structures; the experience is primarily outdoor exploration of natural and heritage features.
Key highlights
- 01
First Biodiversity Heritage Site notified in Tamil Nadu in November 2022 under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
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Spread over 193.215 hectares covering Arittapatti and Meenakshipuram villages in Melur Taluk
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Habitat for over 200 bird and animal species and more than 350 plant species including native scrub and medicinal plants