ETHNOBOTANICAL PLANTS OF BANDLI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, MANDI, HIMACHAL PRADESH

Bandli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. This Protected Area is rich in plant diversity due vast altitudinal variation (600 – 2160 m) and geographical conditions. Present study was planned to collect information of plants used by inhabitants of this Wildlife Sanctuary. Field surveys were conducted during July 2012 to June 2014 on monthly basis to collect data on ethnobotanically important plants from villagers and traditional healers. A total of 104 plants species including 36 species of trees, 27 of shrubs, two of climbers and 39 species of herbs were documented. The plants were regularly used as fodder and forage, medicinal and religious purposes. Traditions, customs and cultural rights play a key role in protection of biodiversity and environment. Hence, there is a need to utilize the ethnobotanical information and promote the indigenous people as they contribute hugely in conserving the biodiversity.