Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rajasthan, the largest state in India, is not only known for its magnificent palaces and forts but also for its diverse Wildlife Sanctuaries and natural landscapes. The state is home to several sanctuaries and national parks that attract nature enthusiasts and wildlife sanctuary lovers from around the world. These sanctuaries provide a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich biodiversity and offer opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife species in their natural habitats. Let’s explore some of the prominent sanctuaries of Rajasthan.
Photographs of its forts and palaces have drawn millions not just from overseas but also from within our own country. Should it come as a surprise that the desert state welcomed as many as 35.2 million domestic tourists and 1.46 million foreign travelers in 2015? Rajasthan has something to offer for everyone: from the luxury suites of Rambaug Palace in Jaipur to of course the old hunting grounds of the former maharajas that have now been converted into national parks and sanctuaries. Even though Ranthambore and Sariska are the two most well-known names outside of the state, Rajasthan has 25 designated sanctuaries that cover a total area of about 5380 sq km. Ready for a tour?
Ranthambore National Park: Located in the Sawai Madhopur district, Ranthambore National Park is one of the most famous and visited wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan. It is renowned for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers and is a popular destination for tiger safaris. Spread over an area of approximately 392 square kilometers, the park also boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, sambar deer, sloth bears, and various bird species. The park’s scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and historic Ranthambore Fort make it a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Sariska Tiger Reserve: Situated in the Alwar district, Sariska Tiger Reserve is another significant wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan. It was declared a tiger reserve in 1978, and efforts have been made to reintroduce tigers into the park. Sariska is also home to other wildlife sanctuary species such as leopards, wild boars, hyenas, and several species of deer. The sanctuary’s hilly terrain, lush forests, and ancient temples add to its appeal.
Keoladeo National Park: Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for birdwatchers. Located in Bharatpur, the park is home to over 370 bird species, including migratory birds that visit during the winter months. The park’s wetlands, marshes, and grasslands provide a perfect habitat for birds like Siberian cranes, painted storks, herons, and pelicans. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by cycle, or by hiring a rickshaw to witness the stunning avian diversity.
Desert National Park: Nestled in the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer, Desert National Park is a unique sanctuary known for its arid landscapes and desert-adapted wildlife. The park spans an area of about 3,162 square kilometers and is home to species like the Great Indian Bustard, blackbuck, desert fox, and various reptiles. The park offers opportunities for wildlife safaris, nature walks, and stargazing in the desert.
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is a refreshing retreat amidst the Aravalli Range. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 290 square kilometers and is home to several wildlife species, including langurs, wild boars, Indian leopards, and various bird species. The sanctuary’s lush forests, water bodies, and serene landscapes make it a popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers.
Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated in the Churu district, Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its population of blackbucks. The sanctuary spans an area of around 7 square kilometers and offers a unique opportunity to observe these elegant antelopes in their natural habitat. The open grasslands and semi-arid landscapes of Tal Chhapar are also frequented by migratory birds during winter.
Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Also known as the Monsoon Palace Sanctuary, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the famous Sajjangarh Palace in Udaipur. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including panthers, hyenas, wild boars, and various bird species. The panoramic views of Udaipur city, the Aravalli Range, and Lake Pichola from the sanctuary add to its charm.
These are just a few of the many wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, each offering a unique experience and a chance to witness the state’s remarkable biodiversity. Exploring these sanctuaries allows visitors to connect with nature, witness rare wildlife, and appreciate the conservation efforts undertaken in Rajasthan.
Which is the largest sanctuary in Rajasthan?
The largest wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan is the Ranthambore National Park. Situated in the Sawai Madhopur district, it spans an area of approximately 392 square kilometers, making it the largest sanctuary in the state.
Ranthambore National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is particularly famous for its population of the Royal Bengal Tigers. It was initially established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955 and was later declared a national park in 1980. The park is nestled amidst the Aravalli and Vindhya mountain ranges, offering a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, lakes, and ancient ruins.
Apart from the majestic tigers, Ranthambore is also home to a wide range of wildlife species, including leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, chital (spotted deer), nilgai (blue bull), wild boars, and various species of birds. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a favorable habitat for these species, and it is often a delight for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Ranthambore National Park offers thrilling jeep safaris and canter safaris that take visitors through its picturesque landscapes in search of wildlife sightings. The park is divided into several zones, each with its unique attractions and tiger territories. The historic Ranthambore Fort, situated within the park, adds a cultural and historical dimension to the wildlife experience.
Due to its popularity and success in tiger conservation, Ranthambore National Park has become a significant destination for wildlife tourism in India. It is recognized as one of the best places in the country to observe and photograph tigers in their natural habitat. The park’s stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and the elusive nature of tigers make it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Conservation efforts and strict regulations are in place to protect the park’s wildlife and maintain its delicate ecosystem. Ranthambore serves as a crucial stronghold for tiger conservation, contributing to the overall preservation of the species in the wild.
Visiting Ranthambore National Park provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature, witness incredible wildlife encounters, and contribute to the conservation of these magnificent creatures.
What is the famous sanctuary of Rajasthan?
Nahargarh Biological Park, a part of the Nahargarh sanctuary is located about 12 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Delhi highway. It encompasses a large area of 720 hectares and is situated under the Aravalli range.
How many sanctuaries are there in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas that contribute to the conservation of its diverse flora and fauna. As of my knowledge cutoff in June 2023, there are 37 wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan. However, please note that the number may change over time as new sanctuaries are established or existing ones are modified. Here are some of the prominent wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan:
- Ranthambore National Park
- Sariska Tiger Reserve
- Keoladeo National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
- Desert National Park
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve
- Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary
- Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary
- Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
- Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary
These sanctuaries serve as important habitats for a wide range of wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, migratory birds, and reptiles. They play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and provide opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers to experience the beauty and richness of Rajasthan’s natural heritage.
Which wildlife sanctuary is found in Rajasthan?
The oldest wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan is the Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Kaila Devi Wildlife Sanctuary. Established in 1955, it is located in the Karauli district of Rajasthan. The sanctuary covers an area of around 422 square kilometers and is named after the revered Sita Mata Temple, which is located within its boundaries.
Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It encompasses a range of landscapes, including rugged hills, forests, and meandering rivers. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, chinkara (Indian gazelle), wild boars, and various species of birds. It is also known for its rich plant diversity, with several medicinal and aromatic plants found within its precincts.
The sanctuary holds religious significance for devotees who visit the Sita Mata Temple. The temple attracts a large number of pilgrims, especially during the Navratri festival, when it is adorned with lights and celebrations.
Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary has been instrumental in the conservation of wildlife and the preservation of the region’s natural heritage. It offers opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting, allowing visitors to experience the tranquility and beauty of the sanctuary.
Being the oldest sanctuary in Rajasthan, Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary holds historical and ecological significance and continues to be an important protected area for the state’s wildlife and biodiversity.
What is the best time to visit Sanctuaries in Rajasthan?
The best time to visit the wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan largely depends on the weather and the specific sanctuary you plan to visit. Here are some general guidelines regarding the best time to visit:
- Ranthambore National Park: The park remains closed during the monsoon season from July to September. The ideal time to visit is from October to June when the weather is relatively pleasant. However, the months of April to June can be quite hot, so it is advisable to plan early morning or late afternoon safaris to avoid the heat.
- Sariska Tiger Reserve: The reserve is open to visitors throughout the year. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant. During the summer months of April to June, temperatures can soar, so it is recommended to plan your visits during the early morning or late afternoon.
- Keoladeo National Park: The park is best visited from November to February, which is the winter season. During this time, a large number of migratory birds visit the park, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The weather is pleasant and cool, making it comfortable to explore the park on foot or by cycle rickshaws.
- Desert National Park: The ideal time to visit the Desert National Park is from November to March when the weather is relatively cooler. The temperatures during the summer months of April to June can be scorching, so it is advisable to avoid visiting during this time.
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is from February to June and from September to December when the weather is pleasant. Monsoon season should be avoided as heavy rainfall can disrupt activities.
It is important to note that wildlife sightings can vary throughout the year, and the specific timing of animal activity may be unpredictable. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally considered the best times for wildlife viewing as animals are more active during these cooler hours.
Before planning your visit, it is recommended to check the specific timings and seasonal variations of the sanctuary you intend to visit. This will ensure a more enjoyable and rewarding wildlife experience in Rajasthan.
