Date: 02nd February’ 25
Location: Tilpath Valley Biodiversity Park
Walk expert: Pulkit Sharma
No. of participants: 9
Theme: Tree Walk
Summary of the walk:
Pulkit Sharma led this wonderful walk on Sunday, 02nd February.
Pulkit is a passionate naturalist with experience in ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation. They have been part of Tilpath Valley Biodiversity Park and led citizen science programs to connect people with nature. Their work focuses on restoring ecosystems and protecting wildlife.
The participants arrived by 08:45 am at the meeting point which was the entrance gate of Tilpath Valley Biodiversity Park. Participants had an intro session among themselves before beginning the walk with Mr. Pulkit.
The walk started with a brief introduction to Delhi Earth Walks & Asian Adventures by Mr. Alok Kumar. The walk was then led by Mr. Pulkit with the history and making of Tilpath. He shared that this forest is young as the plantation has been done not more than 10 years ago. He talked about the forest type and how the flora and fauna are similar to Asola Bhatti as this is the stretch of Aravalli ridge. He also shared details about people who were involved initially in restoring this patch and how it is being managed by DDA currently.
The walk started with a discussion on various native species of trees such as Bishtendu, Haldu, Kaim, Siris, Semal, Amaltas, Ronjh, and many more. He told the ecological and medicinal values of these trees. Interesting knowledge such as the laxative properties of Amaltas and how the mythologically important species of kaim (Kadamb) was undermined by the Chinese version over the years. He also shared the resemblance of Haldu with Kaim and the city Haldwani named after the Haldu.
Later, the adverse effects of invasive species such as Lantana camara and Prosopis juliflora were also discussed. Participants also witnessed the small butterfly park.
Photos clicked, light snacks distributed and all left with a big smile on their faces as we ended the walk at the scenic viewpoint of Tilpath Valley Biodiversity Park.
We thank Mr. Pulkit Sharma for his valuable guidance and a super fun and informative walk for all the participants. Participants showcased their amazing talent with their brushes and colors. It was a walk full of adventure, thrill, and wonderful learning.
Species observed:
Flora : Kaim, Khair, Desi Babool, Amaltas, Palash, Bishtendu, Kareel, Siris, Bilangna, Haldu, Reonjh, Khejri, Vilayati kikar, Lantana camara, Lime