Values of Protected Area

Value related to flora

• Repository of Medicinal Plants of ethno botanical importance
• Its habitat spectrum – especially a wide range of altitudinal zonation and consequent unique biodiversity
• Only sanctuary in Kerala with a riparian gallery forests
• Only sanctuary in Kerala with dry deciduous forests and sandal forests
• Presence of Albizzia lathamii, a critically endangered tree species

Value related to fauna

• Supports the only population of Grizzled Giant Squirrel in Kerala
• Richness in avian and reptilian diversity
• Presence of Star Tortoise, Marsh Crocodile, Yellow Throated Bulbul, Tufted Grey Langur

Values related to watershed

• Prominent catchments of an East flowing river particularly, the immediate catchment of Amaravathi reservoir in Tamil Nadu

Geographical Values

• Being the only link between Anamalai hills and the Kodaikkanal slopes the Sanctuary occupies a pivotal position in the eastern slope forests of the Western Ghats
• Crucial for the longevity of the shola grassland ecosystem of Eravikulam National Park and southern portion of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu

Archaeological and Anthropological Values

• Only protected area in Kerala with Hill Pulaya tribal community.
• Remnants of Megalithic Burial sites including Dolmens and cysts.

Aesthetic and Educational Values

• Opportunities of human ecological studies
• Eco – Tourism Potential
• Potential for imparting Nature Education.