The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR), the first biosphere reserve to be established in India is noted for its rich biodiversity. NBR covers an area of 5500 km2 and shows a large gradient in rainfall, temperature, and elevation, which have given rise to diverse vegetation types. The climatic and vegetation gradients within the NBR makes it an ideal site to understand the historical trends in ecosystem services and their response to changing climatic conditions.