Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

Sariska Tiger Reserve is well nestled in the Aravali Hills covering 800 sq km area divided into the grasslands, dry deciduous forests, sheer cliffs and rocky landscape. Whether one wants to have camel safaris, go out for shopping in the surrounding places, visit medieval palaces or wildlife watching Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is the best place.

A paradise for nature lovers and wildlife buffs, Nagarjunasagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Srisailam and is often referred to as Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Sanctuary. Established over a huge area of nearly 3568 sq. kms, this land rich in flora and fauna lies adjacent to Nagarjunasagar Reservoir.

Located at about 15 km from Porbandar, the Sanctuary is distributed in two districts i.e. Porbandar and Jamnagar. The Sanctuary area is a green surrounded by agriculture fields, wastelands and forest and the terrain of Barda is almost hilly.

The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary spreads across 795.52 square kilometers and does not fail to enthrall its visitors with its overwhelming beauty, lush green surrounding, the ever cherished rambling of River Mahanadi besides the very famous Satkosia gorge and large variety of species of wild animals, birds and plants.

Completely a paradise for wildlife lovers, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 834.16 sq km and has been recognized as the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. Declared as the National Wildlife Sanctuary in 1956, it is home to a variety of flora and fauna including tigers, woodpecker, hornbill, kingfisher, leopards, elephants, etc.

Being one of twelve wildlife sanctuaries among the protected areas of Kerala, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary forms an integral part of the 1,187 km sq. block of protected forests straddling the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, in the region of the Annamalai Hills. The Sanctuary is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.

Famous for its almost-extinct mountain quails, deer, leopards and red-billed blue magpie, the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is well known to house rare species of birds and offers an excellent trail of pine-clad slopes surrounded by Himalayan peaks for a refreshing walk.

Previously a hunters' reserve for the royal residing in Chail, this area was declared a wildlife sanctuary by the Government in the year 1976. This sanctuary has a myriad species of birds and animals.

Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, this wildlife sanctuary is situated between the Kaveri and the Tungabhadra rivers, spreading over an area of 540 sq km and is a place the BR hills are known for.

Situated in the Eastern foothills of the Himalayas, the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary along with Gorumara National Park is famous for one horned rhinoceros, elephants and Bengal Tigers, spotted deers, barking deers, sambhar deers, bison, wild pig, hog deer and bison.

The Kalakkad Wildlife sanctuary is one of the few national parks in South India that house the Tiger. Lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, langur, Nilgiri tahr, sambar, sloth bear, gaur, elephant, flying squirrel, panther, wild dog and pangolin are some of the other animals found here.

Founded in 1989, this wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 185 sq km and is home to multiple species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians as well as fish. This sanctuary is one the nine identified Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Manipur. The IBA is of critical importance for environmental conservationists and bird watchers as it is the only place where the endangered Green Peafowl can still be sighted.

It is also one of those rare forests where communities of people live in tandem with nature. Seven forest villages are presently housed in the sanctuary and the villagers are dependent on the natural resources of the forest for their livelihood. The sanctuary is located at the India-Myanmar border, housing a mix of riverian and terrestrial ecosystems.

Kakaijana Proposed Wildlife Sanctuary is situated around 15 km away from the Bongaigaon town on the banks of river Aie. It houses several species like stork, python, leopard, hornbill, porcupine and much more.

A popular tourist attraction of Kanhagad region, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary is all about lush green tropical green forest and variety of wildlife.

Located at a distance of about 20 km from the Gorumara National Park, this Wildlife Sanctuary is another spectacle of nature's magnificence. With Kanchanjungha and other Himalayan peaks painted across its backdrop, tourists can see a wide diversity of animals like elephants, gaur, leopards in their natural habitat.

This royal sanctuary plays home to the royal bengal tiger and many more varieties of flora and fauna. At least 40 mammal species occur in Pakke Tiger Reserve.

Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary is a must if you are into wildlife. Located at the foothills of Himalayas in the Terai region, it is spread across the lower catchment area of river Mahanada.

Located at an altitude of about 4000-9000 feet in the Ladakhi Changthang Plateau in the Leh district, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is considered as the second largest nature reserve after the Northeast Greenland National Park in Denmark due to a range of rare and exotic flora and fauna present here. Apart from the fact that it is home to various plants and animals, it comprises of the highest lakes - Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar. The sanctuary is also close to Korzok Monastery which is one of the highlights of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.

Known For : Fort Ater Bateshwar Temples

Famous for its Lion and Deer Safari, National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is a treat for nature enthusiasts. The park houses a crocodile farm and elephant rehabilitation centre. Ask for a guided tour of the sanctuary which is quite informative.

Best Time: November to March

2 Chambal Wildlife Attractions

Tour to Kawal wildlife sanctuary is a tour to people of thrill and adventure loving. 50 kilometers from Mancherial and 250 kilometers from Hyderabad is the district Adilabad where this sancuary is situated. In 2012, India government took a major step and declared Kawal Wildlife sanctuary as the Tiger Reserve sanctuary. It has been spread out in an area covering 893sq km.

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a 30-hectare protected area located in the Kancheepuram District of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The sanctuary is about 75 kilometres from Chennai on National Highway 45, south of Chengalpattu. (br) More than 40,000 birds (including 26 rare species), from various parts of the world visit the sanctuary during the migratory season every year. Vedanthangal is home to migratory birds such as pintail, garganey, grey wagtail, blue-winged teal, common sandpiper and the like.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a major attraction to the visitors of Mumbai, Thane and other nearby towns. About one hundred thousand local tourists visit the sanctuary every year. Karnala acts as a heaven's hub for bird watchers. One may visit Nature Interpretation Centre and trek down to famous Karnala Fort as well, placed amid the sanctuary.
Karnala Pinnacle offers refuge to endangered species like the peregrine falcon, king vulture and the serpent eagle on the hill crest.

This wildlife sanctuary is regarded as one of its kind in Asia and is home to one of the rarest species of flora and fauna. It is spread on a sprawling area of 650 sq. kms and has rich marine vegetation, salt tolerant varieties of trees and plants, rivers and creeks.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary aka Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka is a bird sanctuary located in the Mandya District of Karnataka in India. It is claimed to be the largest bird sanctuary in the state, covering only 0.67 sq kms of area in the near about 40 acres. It comprises of six islets on the banks of the Kaveri river. Ranganathittu, placed three kilometers away from the ancient town of Srirangapatna and 16 kilometres north of Mysore attracts numerous travellers during, which its notability and grandure is displayed.

The Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary spreads across 795.52 square kilometers and does not fail to enthrall its visitors with its overwhelming beauty, lush green surrounding, the ever cherished rambling of River Mahanadi besides the very famous Satkosia gorge and large variety of species of wild animals, birds and plants.

Best Time: October to March

The Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary of the Bhamragarh town is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra and is home to various animal species like leopards, the blue bull, peacock, flying squirrel, wild boar, etc.

Best Time: October to May

Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, this wildlife sanctuary is situated between the Kaveri and the Tungabhadra rivers, spreading over an area of 540 sq km and is a place the BR hills are known for.

Situated in the Eastern foothills of the Himalayas, the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary along with Gorumara National Park is famous for one horned rhinoceros, elephants and Bengal Tigers, spotted deers, barking deers, sambhar deers, bison, wild pig, hog deer and bison.

Best Time: September to May

Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, barely 5 kilometres away from the Bassi Fort Palace and is an important natural reserve of the state. The sanctuary expands over an area of 150 square kilometres on the west border of the Vindhyachal Mountain Ranges and many water channels and lakes that are essential for the vegetation. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna in the region. The forest is dry deciduous and has trees like the Dhok, Churel, Butea along with a variety of medicinal herbs and flowering plants. Tourists can go on a jeep safari arranged by the forest officials. These safaris have a guide accompanying the visitors who can provide more information about the sanctuary. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is often visited by nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to study animals and birds in their natural habitat.

The Kalakkad Wildlife sanctuary is one of the few national parks in South India that house the Tiger. Lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, langur, Nilgiri tahr, sambar, sloth bear, gaur, elephant, flying squirrel, panther, wild dog and pangolin are some of the other animals found here.

The Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in the Telangana region located about 110 kilometres from Warangal. It was declared as a wildlife sanctuary due to its rich biodiversity by the former Hyderabad Government in 1953. The sanctuary has unique features spread across its length and breadth which one cannot stop praising.The Dayyum Vagu River flows through the sanctuary making it appear even more beautiful and separating it into two parts. Natural vegetation covers the sanctuary and enhances the scenic beauty of the place to a different level altogether. People from all over visit this exquisite location to unwind and spend a fun day away from the fast-moving and hectic life.

A wildlife sanctuary that is home to various migratory birds and wild animals is a hotspot of Nahan. It consists of sal forests and lush green grassland with meandering streams in this natural part of Shivaliks.

Bhainsroggarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Aravalli Hills in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. It is one of the most important and world-renowned wildlife sanctuaries in the state since it was declared so in 1983. It is situated near the convergence of the Bemany and Chambal rivers inside the premises of an ancient fort, Bhainsrodgarh Fort, in the town of Rawatbhata which is about 120 kilometres away from Chittorgarh. The scenic location is a perfect attraction for nature lovers and photographers. The wildlife sanctuary is home to a varied species of animals and birds that attracts wildlife and nature enthusiasts from the world over. Locals living nearby often visit the sanctuary for a quick getaway. The best time to explore the wildlife sanctuary is in the mornings as the tourists get the entire day to observe the surroundings leisurely.

Located at about 15 km from Porbandar, the Sanctuary is distributed in two districts i.e. Porbandar and Jamnagar. The Sanctuary area is a green surrounded by agriculture fields, wastelands and forest and the terrain of Barda is almost hilly.

Founded in 1989, this wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 185 sq km and is home to multiple species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians as well as fish. This sanctuary is one the nine identified Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Manipur. The IBA is of critical importance for environmental conservationists and bird watchers as it is the only place where the endangered Green Peafowl can still be sighted.

It is also one of those rare forests where communities of people live in tandem with nature. Seven forest villages are presently housed in the sanctuary and the villagers are dependent on the natural resources of the forest for their livelihood. The sanctuary is located at the India-Myanmar border, housing a mix of riverian and terrestrial ecosystems.

Spread over an area of 130 square kilometres, the Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary was set up in 1952 which was the hunting ground of the then Nizam. Named after the Pocharam Lake which was formed here after the Pocharam Dam was constructed on the River Allair between 1916 to 1922, this place is a scenic beauty with all the surrounding hills. The dreamlike beauty of the Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary takes many tourists and travellers by surprise.

Kakaijana Proposed Wildlife Sanctuary is situated around 15 km away from the Bongaigaon town on the banks of river Aie. It houses several species like stork, python, leopard, hornbill, porcupine and much more.

Being the northernmost wildlife reserve in the whole of Kerala and the only wildlife sanctuary in Kannur, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is quite a big deal. Amidst these sky-touching trees and mesmerising greenery, many exotic wildlife species have marked their territory. Taking a safari through the thick verdure and venturing deeper into the forests, you will encounter many striking and remarkably extraordinary species of animals as well as birds that will leave you stumped and in awe of nature's wondrous creations.

Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem hiding amidst Vindhyan Hills in the state of Madhya Pradesh. This wildlife sanctuary is a well kept secret and is a safe haven for a large number of flora and fauna. The tranquil wilderness and the serene rivers makes this place look magical. The dense lush green trees hid many treasures amidst them that will surely beckon you to explore. This wildlife sanctuary being an offbeat destination is not visited by a lot of people and hence is quite peaceful. A few hours spent with trees, flowers, animals and birds is surely going to force you to appreciate the beauties of nature. And, once in you would not want to leave this wildlife sanctuary.

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its forest tourism, but to the residents, it is more familiar because of its wild resident elephants. 'Dalma Haathi' or the 'Elephants of Dalma' is a known and quite fearful term in the Jamshedpur-Puruliya region. Established in 1975 and inaugurated by Sanjay Gandhi, the Dalma forest is home to a horde of animals, birds and tree species as well. Overlooking the shimmering Subarnarekha River, the Dalma hills nestle the dense green forests like an offspring. This ambience of the forest and the odd chance of having a glimpse at the wild animals is what makes Dalma so special among those who love to travel around jungles.

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the district of Pratapgarh in the north-west Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a dense forest area with thick deciduous plantations that include trees like Gulmohar, Sindoor, Rudraksha, Bamboo, Bel, etc. Botanists have spotted 108 medicinal herbs in the sanctuary out of which about 17 are endangered ones. The rivers Sitamata, Budho, Tankiya, Jakham and Karmoi flow through the sanctuary along with several other water bodies providing a continuous supply of water to the fauna and flora in the region. According to a Hindu legend, the Valmiki Ashram was located in this forest. It is, therefore, called the Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary. The area also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Sita. Archaeologists have spotted several rocks that have carvings have prehistoric animals. The sanctuary is thus considered to be of immense historical importance also.

A popular tourist attraction of Kanhagad region, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary is all about lush green tropical green forest and variety of wildlife.

Located at a distance of about 20 km from the Gorumara National Park, this Wildlife Sanctuary is another spectacle of nature's magnificence. With Kanchanjungha and other Himalayan peaks painted across its backdrop, tourists can see a wide diversity of animals like elephants, gaur, leopards in their natural habitat.

This royal sanctuary plays home to the royal bengal tiger and many more varieties of flora and fauna. At least 40 mammal species occur in Pakke Tiger Reserve.

Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary is a must if you are into wildlife. Located at the foothills of Himalayas in the Terai region, it is spread across the lower catchment area of river Mahanada.

Located at an altitude of about 4000-9000 feet in the Ladakhi Changthang Plateau in the Leh district, Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is considered as the second largest nature reserve after the Northeast Greenland National Park in Denmark due to a range of rare and exotic flora and fauna present here. Apart from the fact that it is home to various plants and animals, it comprises of the highest lakes - Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, and Tso Kar. The sanctuary is also close to Korzok Monastery which is one of the highlights of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.

Famous for its Lion and Deer Safari, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a treat for nature enthusiasts. The park houses a crocodile farm and elephant rehabilitation centre. Ask for a guided tour of the sanctuary which is quite informative.

Kasargod is a place which is blessed with nature's beauty and tranquility. Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary is one such place which offers both. It also offers natural habitation to many wildlife creatures such as turtle, porcupine, pig, Malabar Hornbill, slender loris and jungle cat. Blessed with thick cover of evergreen forest and many plants with medicinal value, this sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers.

Nature parks and wildlife sanctuaries are safe havens for the diverse flora and fauna, and the north-Indian state of Uttarakhand is home to an important one - the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated in the Uttarkashi district of the state, Govind Pashu Vihar was initially established as a wildlife sanctuary and later it attained the status of a national park.

The oldest sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh, the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary packs a treat for wildlife and avifauna enthusiasts alike. The River Narmada, which is 150 million years older than River Ganga, graces the sanctuary with its presence. Home to deer, wild hare, tigers and an umpteen variety of birds, this sanctuary is nothing short of paradise.

Pushpagiri is one of the 21 wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and home to many rare and endangered species of birds. The Kumara Parvat peak lies here. This National Park is also a proposed World Heritage site.

Also called as the Hastinapur National Park, this sanctuary spread across an area of 2073 sq km has been home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is known to conserve a huge number of bird species and for being the home to a variety of Mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, herbs and shrubs. Peacocks can be spotted here in large numbers. The sanctuary is spread over multiple districts including Meerut, Ghaziabad, Bijnore and Jyotiba Phule Nagar. The nearest railhead is 40 km.

In 1996 Dhemaji district became home to the Bardoibum-Beelmukh Wildlife Sanctuary, which has an area of 11 km2. It shares the park with Lakhimpur district. Wildlife species found in the district include elephant, tiger, buffalo, deer etc. and varieties of tree species.

Located very near the Murlen National Park, this sanctuary is home to animals like the barking deer, rhesus macaque, wild boar as well as leopard. Tigers and gorals are also found here.

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is situated in Chattisgarh, around 60 kms from Bilaspur. Categorised as a tropical deciduous forest, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is breathtakingly beautiful with the most varied flora and fauna. This tiger reserve is a part of the huge Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, and hence, it is home to more than 600 species of different medicinal plants. The scenic Maniyari River flows right from the centre of this reserve which is the lifeline of the forest.

The breathtaking Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of rich biodiversity which adds it to the list of must-visit places in the tiny hamlet. The sanctuary is one of the oldest parts of the Mount Abu mountain ranges and is the origin of numerous sightseeing points with exquisite views. It was given the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1960 to preserve flora and fauna of the entire region and is, therefore, an important eco-tourism spot. The sanctuary is a floral beauty with a vibrant vegetative cover of evergreen forests. It is the perfect place if you wish to witness the best of wildlife in Rajasthan in their natural habitat combined with a thrilling experience.

A major tourist attraction, the sanctuary is an expansive reserve with an absolutely delightful display of trees, foliage and wildlife. Unique species such as macaque, capped langur, slow toris and a lot more can be seen here. It is also a bird watcher's paradise set in the middle of nature's bounty. There are also safaris into the reserve. Tourists can be lucky to spot the red panda and porcupines.

The former hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Kolhapur, Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1985. Also known as Bison Sanctuary, the place is popular for Indian Bison or Gaurs. Besides, one can also spot leopards, tigers, sloth bears etc. Set amidst verdant forests, the sanctuary makes for a perfect getaway from the city.

This 337 sq. km. sanctuary is home to a wide and exotic variety of flora and fauna. The endangered clouded leopards are also found here. The sanctuary has a spectrum of flora as well which includes silver fir trees, ferns, orchids, bamboo and rhododendron.

Situated on the east banks of river Ganga, the Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across 249 sq km, is home to small cats, tigers, elephants and bears apart from various birds. Established in 1977, it was merged with Motichur and Rajaji to form the famous Rajaji National Park.

Lying on the banks of River Godavari, Sivaram Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with fresh water flora and fauna. The sanctuary, established in the year 1987 is also home to delectable vegetation including gumpena, timan, terminalias, kodsha and teak etc. Besides delicious shrubs, the sanctuary spread across a huge area of 36.29 sq kms inhabit animals like nilgai, tiger, wild boar, panther, python, langur, sloth bear, sambhar, cheetal, rhesus monkey etc. Tourists will also see crocodiles that are found in River Godavari.

Located around 20 km from the main town, this isolated wildlife sanctuary is famous for its hoolock gibbon population. Surrounded by the Brahmaputra river on one side and with tea gardens everywhere else, this is a good enclosure for the 40 or so species of hoolock gibbons that reside here. Apart from the gibbon, one can see capped langur, stump-tailed macaque, pigtail macaque, Assamese macaque, rhesus macaque and slow loris, elephant and so many other species of animals here.

This sanctuary and a couple of other facilities (school, hospital) in Pasighat are named after Dr. D. Ering. Over 25% of the sanctuary is covered with water bodies and hence attracts many migratory birds from Mongolia and Siberia.
The sanctuary itself is surrounded by the Siang River (Brahmaputra). the sanctuary is also home to many endangered species of birds.

Home to a variety of wildlife especially birds and primates, this place is not just a wildlife sanctuary but also an academic and research centre. Various lakes are present within the sanctuary, where boating facility is available. More than 150 species of residential birds, migratory birds, orchid garden, boating facilities, wild life, botanical garden, zoo, elephant joy-rides, rubber and coffee plantations beckon the tourists all through the year. The added visual incentive for animal-lovers is the famous spectacled monkey which is now a rare species.

Open all year round, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the catchment area of the Peppara Dam on the Karamana River. The sanctuary rich in flora and fauna offers a natural habitat to around 43 species of mammals, 233 species of birds, 46 species of reptiles, 13 species of amphibians and 27 species of fishes. The commonly found animals here are tiger, leopard, sloth bear, elephant, deer, Bonnet Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Lilgiri Tahr, etc.

Dig into natures choicest offerings at the Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary. Located just 15 km away from Anandpur Sahib, this nature reserve is the ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife photographers and adventure enthusiasts. Situated close to the mighty Sutlej river, this wildlife sanctuary offers truly delightful visual treats of nature to visitors. Visitors should not forget to bring their camera and binoculars.

Located 10km away from Vagamon, Ulipooni makes up for a perfect picnic spot. It is away from the noisy crowd of the city, you might spot couples boating here. It is a peaceful romantic destination, a good place to spend a day with your family or spouse.

Sprawling over a vast area of almost 635 sq. kms, Kinnersani Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Khammam district of Telangana. Nestled amidst the Dandakaranya Forest, the sanctuary is flanked by river Godavari on one side. Besides the variety of endangered flora, it is also home to umpteen species of Chousinghas, Sambar, Wild Boars, Gaurs, Chinkara, Cheetals, Hyenas, Sloth Bears etc. With suitable temperature and a pleasant climate, several species live here in tune with nature. In addition to the nature lovers, the region is also a popular hot spot among birdwatchers and photographers.

This Wildlife Park spans an area of over 110 sq. km. It is home to a number of beautiful and rare birds, such as white-winged wood duck, slender-billed vulture, white-backed vulture and so many more along with the various species of animals. It is a great place to visit.

Located 35km from Dimapur, this sanctuary is said to be home to a whole variety of Animals such as Elephants, wild buffalos, the rare Hoolok gibbon, sloth bear, barking deer black storks and a lot more! The National Park takes pride in its 200km square natural yet protected habitat. This park came into the limelight after a tiff with PETA which said that living conditions for the animals is quite poor. Since that episode, the park is very well maintained and is a lovely family place.

Just 6km from Tinsukia, it is a popular tourist attraction. Various species of animals including species like hoolock gibbon, stump tailed macaque, capped langur, common macaque and slow loris can be found here.

Established back in the year 1987, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is a small wildlife sanctuary spanning an area of just 35 sq. km. This sanctuary is famous for its variety of flora, especially for the medicinal plants. Government of Sikkim has proposed to build a 22 km ropeway in this area to create the first wildlife skywalk of India which will be something similar to the skywalk in the Grand Canyon in USA. This project is supposed to be completed by 2015 and would cost around Rs. 500 crores.

The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Leopard, bear, deer, langur, jackal, Himalayan Black Marten, Barking Goral and countless beautiful birds can be spotted here. The landscapes are thickly covered with Deodar trees interspersed with little streams flowing into the Ravi river. The wildlife sanctuary was better known as a gaming reserve for Chamba rulers, in history. The area is a favourite spot for trekking, picnics, and nature walks.

Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam and is a perfect example of natural harmony between the dry seasonal forest and the evergreen meadows. The Sanctuary houses many rare species of wild life animals such as panthers, Sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, jackal, wild boar and wild dog.

Spread over an area of 35 sq km, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its variety of species of wildlife like the wild boar, hoolock, gibbon, and the sambar deer. This sanctuary is located at a height of 1300 m from sea level.

A place enriched with various species of wildlife, Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary serves as a paradise for the nature lovers. Spread across the area of 38.8 sq km, this sanctuary is most renowned for its endangered Indian one-horned Rhinoceros. Apart from that, the place also inhabits animals like Wild bear, Asiatic Buffalo and civet cat etc. The sanctuary also boasts of being home to more than 2000 migratory birds including hill myna, osprey, kalij pheasant and Indian pied horn bill etc.

Known for a large population of Pheasants, this wild life sanctuary, just a little away fro Jammu, is home to an abundance of fauna, especially birds. While here, one can spot countless Pheasants, Indian mynah, Blue Rock Pigeon, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, and Chakor. Also found here are Leopards, Grey Langurs, Rhesus Monkey, Boars and more.

This enchanting sanctuary has maintained an untainted habitat for the multiple species of flora and fauna found here. Mammals like tigers, bison, wild horses, aquatic life as well as migratory birds can be seen here.

Also known as Eagle's Nest Wildlife sanctuary, this place lies between Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Tiger Reserve. It is a great place for bird watching as there is an immense variety of bird species (over 450 species) spotted here. Some of them are Cormorans, Herons, Black Stork, Oriental White Ibis, Ducks, Hawks, Eagles, Kites, Vultures, Falcons, Pheasants, Quails, Tragopan, Cuckoos, Parrots, Pigeons, Woodpeckers, etc. Among other species found here are tigers, elephants, red panda, asiatic black bear, Arunachal Macaque, Gaur, Snakes, Lizard and various kind of insects.

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh, the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Bar and Nawapura forest villages. It was established in the year of 1976 and is spread over a vast area of 245 sq. Km. The rich and lush vegetation caters to a broad spectrum of wildlife in this region. The landscape is mostly flat terrain with occasional low and high hillocks.

Located in the Western Ghats in the Kollam district of Kerala, the Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that serves as the natural habitat for a myriad of plants, birds and animals, and provides them with a safe reclusive spot, far away from the dust and dirt of city life. The sanctuary was established on 25 August in 1984 and is presently under the control of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. This majestic site is like a treasure trove for all nature lovers, photographers, archaeologists and biologists since the place is home to endless flowering plants, birds and trees. The vast floral and faunal variety that is found here is what attracts tourists from all across the country, and lures them to come and spend a day in silence and tranquillity.

Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is a rich biodiversity park located near Nagpur in Maharashtra. The park boasts of a vast variety of flora and fauna and houses exotic species of animals, birds and plants. The park also has a cottage to facilitate accommodation for the visiting guests which in itself is a unique experience. Besides, it has a temple of snakes located right in the centre of the sanctuary.

Kammadam Sacred Grove Wildlife Sanctuary represents a fascinating blend of sacredness and nature. Rich in a variety of flora and fauna, this place is also linked with Bhagavathi Temple. In fact, it is also considered to be the biggest holy plantation in Kerala. Adorned with evergreen forests, medicinal plants, shrubs and orchids, one can also witness animals like fox, snake, bat, monitor lizard and civet etc. The sanctuary also houses various types of birds and butterflies.

Situated in Adilabad, Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is an admiring of Deccan Plateau that is spread across a huge area of 136 sq. km. The sanctuary is flanked by dense forest while Pranahita River flowing through the area provides an excellent source of water for the wildlife. The area is also rich in diverse vegetations as well as wildlife including sloth bear, langur, forest cat, tiger, hyenas and leopards etc. The ideal time to explore the sanctuary is from October to March.

Located in the heart of the country, The Bori Wildlife Sanctuary in Itarsi near Bhopal is truly among the country's oldest and most diverse attractions. It is a part of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve and is covered in mixed deciduous and Bamboo forests. It is not uncommon to sight bigger mammals such as tigers, leopards, wild boars, deer or even the Indian Gaur while you are here. Make sure you check with the forest authorities on the correct timings for a Safari or a jungle walk before you set out to explore.

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is situated around 56 kms away from Kota near Bundi. The sanctuary boasts of a rich wildlife and is home to asiatic elephant, sambar deer, elks etc among several other exotic animal and plant species. The sanctuary is mostly popular for wildlife safaris, treks and sightseeing. Initially it was used as a hunting ground by the Royal families.

The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala, is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world and the best-protected reserve area that one can lay eyes on in India. Famous for its gorgeousness, greenery and stillness, the park is the dwelling place of abundant significant species, including the royal tigers and majestic elephants apart from other reptiles, fishes and birds. This National Park is an amazing coming together of nature, adventure and beauty. A place which allows you the peace and serenity you so desire, an opportunity to be one with nature and just a normal sighting of a Tiger or two, Periyar National Park is full of beautiful sights and sounds.

Now known as the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur National Park is a famous avifauna sanctuary and a bird watching paradise listed among UNESCO's World Heritage sites. The 29 km reserve is locally known as Ghana and is a mosaic of dry grasslands, woodlands, woodland swamps, and wetlands. These diverse habitats are home to 366 bird species, 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snakes, 5 species of lizards, 7 amphibian species,7 turtle species, and a variety of other invertebrates. Every year thousands of migratory waterfowl visit the park for winter breeding.