Alvar

An alvar is a unique type of landscape characterized by a flat, often grassy or herbaceous area that is partly or completely surrounded by natural features like cliffs, forests, or water bodies. These open, treeless zones typically occur between a plateau or mountain slopes and lower landforms, creating a distinctive ecological and scenic patch. Alvars are important habitats for diverse plant and animal species, some of which are rare or specialized to these environments. They are often valued for their natural beauty, cultural significance, and ecological importance, and are protected in many conservation efforts.