About this Sacred Grove

Yercaud Rajeswariyamman Temple grove in Yercaud hills, Salem District enshrines Rajeswariyamman as queen of universe, mother protector and bestower of fertility and health. Legend narrates Goddess in Her royal form subdued a demon possessing nearby forest that troubled cattle and women, fought through night and expelled it, hence She is guardian of grove. Strict taboo bans cutting trees, uprooting plants. Contains perennial hill streamlet as vital water source for villagers downhill. Biodiversity of 2.8 ha includes sacred Peepal as main deity tree - keystone species supporting birds, bats and insects, and Mediterranean Cypress as planted avenue tree along temple path, with native shrubs, shola trees and medicinal herbs preserved by community faith, attracting peafowl, butterflies and small mammals.

Location

Coordinates: 11.8075070, 78.2131860

Plants / Species (2)