Name: Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary
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Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Gujarat Overview

Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a hilly isle known to be the home of the Sloth Bears in Dahod District, Gujarat. The locals suggest that the Sloth Bear is far more dangerous than a leopard, but assist tourists in spotting this thrilling beast. The Kanjeta Eco campsite is the on-site full-service and lodging operation of Gujarat Tourism.

The River Panam originates from within this scenic sanctuary and meets the Orange River at the foothills of Ratanmahal. It is also known for the Mira waterfalls within the sanctuary. You may spot a black panther, leopard or a four-horned antelope during a two-hour trek to the falls.

It is also the location for a water conservation project, housing an irrigation dam and reservoir. The forest land originally belonged to the then King of Devgadh Baria State but is now the reserve forest land of 11 villages in the area.

Best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and February.

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Flora

Ratanmahal forest-land is primarily deciduous, with dry teak and bamboo brakes. It has many Jamun trees that are a feast for the Sloth Bears. It has been reported that the forests have nine species of orchids and various other exquisite flowers. It boasts of hundreds of identified plant species including trees, shrubs, grasses and climbers.

Fauna

Apart from the famous Sloth Bears, various jungle felines including leopards and black panthers can be found here. Other fauna include the Indian civet, four-horned antelope, langurs, and a pit viper. It is also home to local jackals, hyenas, honey badgers, foxes and porcupines. Avifauna include Loten's sunbird, large green barbet, yellow checked tit, crested serpent eagle, grey junglefowl, treepies, white bellied drongos, racket tailed drongos, paradise fly catcher, black headed oriole, etc. Various reptiles are also found here.