Nestled deep within the Shankarkode region of Karulai, Nilambur, the Ryaan Ranch Reserve spans 25 acres of privately protected forest land. This sacred patch of earth lies at the edge of the Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary and is completely surrounded by untouched rainforest, ancient hills, and meandering rivers. More than just land—it is a living sanctuary, a breathing extension of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and a symbol of hope for a future where forests are preserved, not plundered.
Geography: Located in Shankarkode, within the heart of the Western Ghats, one of the most biologically rich regions in the world
Ecosystem: Forms part of a natural elephant corridor, regularly visited by wild elephants, sambar deer, and other species
Accessibility: Remote yet reachable—far from urban interference, but close enough for researchers, rangers, and conservationists to access
Buffer Zone: Positioned as a transition buffer between human settlements and core forest, serving as a critical safety valve for wildlife movement
The Ryaan Ranch Reserve represents a unique conservation model in India, where private landowners voluntarily protect land for the benefit of wildlife and the wider ecosystem. It stands as a working example of how individual action, guided by science and compassion, can help address global issues like:
We maintain open grazing zones and natural water points to support wildlife year-round, especially during periods of stress such as summer droughts.
At the heart of the reserve lies a natural rain-fed pond, which serves as a perennial watering hole. This site is frequented by:
Spotted deer, sambar, and wild boars
Elephant herds for hydration and mud bathing
Leopards and nocturnal species at night
Birds, butterflies, and amphibians throughout the day
This pond plays a vital ecological role, reducing the need for wildlife to stray into human settlements in search of water, thus also helping prevent conflict.
During peak summer and drought periods, when natural sources may dry up, we ensure continued access to water through:
4 permanent wells across the reserve, maintained and kept clean for emergency animal hydration
A dedicated water tanker vehicle used to supply water to remote parts of the forest within and around the reserve
Temporary portable troughs and mud pits refilled daily to support animals who depend on scattered sources
These proactive measures have proven essential in helping elephants, deer, wild boars, and even birds survive extreme summer conditions without distress or forced migration.
We are committed to rebuilding native forest habitats using eco-restoration techniques, including:
This creates a multi-layered ecosystem, attracting back pollinators, small mammals, and birds essential for a thriving food chain.
At Ryaan Ranch Wildlife Trust, we recognize the importance of providing not just land—but secure,
undisturbed microhabitats where wildlife can rest, breed, and thrive. While our reserve already sees
regular wildlife movement—including elephants, deer, and leopards—dedicated wildlife shelter zones
are part of our long-term habitat restoration plan.
As we gradually develop the land, we aim to enhance and diversify microhabitats, enabling wildlife to
use our reserve not just as a corridor—but as a safe resting, nesting, and refuge space throughout the
year.
We plan to enhance:
Native tree canopy (teak, bamboo, fig, jackfruit)
Bamboo clusters and bush thickets for cover and nesting
These will help support birds, primates, and herbivores seeking shade and feeding areas.
We aim to leave select areas untouched to allow for:
Natural decay and burrow creation
Shelters for small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians
Rich forest-floor biodiversity through leaf litter retention
This helps replicate wild forest floor conditions essential for smaller species and soil regeneration.
We will identify and maintain low-disturbance zones where:
Elephants can pause during migration and access shade or water
Leopards or wild boars may find occasional resting sites
These areas will remain off-limits to human activity and act as buffer shelters for shy or sensitive species.
As part of our landscape restoration program, we plan to introduce:
Mud wallows for elephants and boars
Bee boxes and pollinator-friendly zones
Natural perches and nesting supports for ground and tree birds
Rock piles, woody debris, and water-filled logs to attract frogs, reptiles, and insects
These planned shelters will help increase biodiversity density while maintaining natural forest dynamics.
At Ryaan Ranch Wildlife Trust, every day in the forest tells a story—of survival, migration, birth, coexistence, and healing. As our conservation journey unfolds, we aim to capture and share these powerful stories through a dedicated Media & Storytelling Platform.