Taljai is a hill located in the heart of Pune, India that has been designated as a wildlife reserve. The road to this hill passes through the Shivaji Maratha College campus with a picturesque mountain path, with sharp turns. Near the entrance of the forest is a temple to the hill's namesake Taljai mata; a Hindu goddess.
The reserve attracts migratory birds and is home to peacocks. The location is therefore popular with amateur bird watchers and ornithologists.[1][2]
A recent study concluded that the lake at Taljai is dying due to dumping of plastic waste,[3] facing issues to maintain its original form due to urbanization. Several organisations are running campaigns to raise the issue.
The park is open for visitors from 5:00 to10:00 in the mornings and from 4:30 to 7:00 in the evenings. Vehicles are prohibited in the area.
References
^Kakodkar, N.H., 2013. Bio-Diversity of the Pavati-Pachgaon Hills: A 'Habitat Island' in Pune Metropolis. Mammalia, 15, p.24.[1][dead link]
^Bhaskar, P., 2012. "Urbanization and changing green spaces in Indian cities (Case study–City of Pune)". International Journal of Geology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2, pp. 148–156.
^Raut, R., Desai, S., Bapat, R. and Kharat, S., 2000. Aquatic Insects and Molluscs of Pune City. Journal of Ecological Society, pp.13-14.[2]
