202	Abode of Gods
Sarsonpatal (4500 mtrs.) was by the side of a glacial stream,
flowing from the unnamed peak of western hill of the sanctuary,,
at the edge of Rishi Ganga. This part is formed by morainic
deposits intersected with glacial streams originating from.
Devisthan-I, Devisthan-II and an unnamed peak. The lower
section of this deposit of rounded rocks and boulders can be seen*
from the Rishi river valley.
Inside the inner Nanda Devi sanctuary besides Bharals, Thar
can also seen and identified as the Himalayan Thar (Hemitagus-
Jemlahicus) and birds like Snow Pigeons (Columba Leuconota)r
Snow Cock (Tetraogallus Himalayansi) and few other birds. Inside
the inner sanctuary, we found many groups of Bharals and Thars
sitting on the sanctuary grasslands. Today unfortunately, poachers-
have moved into this sacred sanctuary against whom Tillman wroter
"Shooting for the pot may in some circumstances be necessary
but in the sanctuary both sentiment and expediency are strongly
opposed to it"
As the sun rises in the morning, the wind starts blowing from
Rishi Ganga towards the western ring of the mountains, fruits
and seeds of many alpine plants are carried away by the high
wind. Plants like Bergenia stracheyi, Tanacetum sp» and Potentilk
sp,, roll in their leaves, exposing the minimum surface, to
protect themselves from the night forest but the next morning,
sun makes them unroll their leaves again. This phenomenon is*
highly interesting and worthy of serious study.
Once inside the sanctuary, you enjoy the enchanting beauty of
nature in its glorious form. The attractions of visiting the
Sanctuary are many,