Exploring the Rich Wildlife Treasures of Uttar Pradesh Part

These sanctuaries are vital for preserving endangered species and maintaining biodiversity. The state is home to several important protected areas, including the famous Dudhwa National Park and Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, which are known for their rich ecosystems and diverse species. These sanctuaries support a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, deer, migratory birds, and reptiles, many of which are protected by national and international conservation laws.

In addition to their role in wildlife conservation, Uttar Pradesh’s sanctuaries also serve as educational centers, raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment. The state’s commitment to safeguarding its wildlife is evident in the establishment of these sanctuaries, which are vital for the ecological balance of the region and the country as a whole. Many other wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.

Amangarh Tiger Reserve

Amangarh Tiger Reserve is located in Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh. It is spread over an area of 95 square kilometres (36square miles) and is one of the four tiger reserves in Uttar Pradesh. The reserve was originally part of the Jim Corbett National Park, but was notified as a separate tiger reserve in 2012.

The landscape here is a mesmerising blend of dense forests, rolling hills, grassy meadows, and pristine water bodies. It is a heaven for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

The reserve is home to a plethora of wildlife species, including the majestic Bengal tiger, which is the apex predator of the region. Apart from tigers, the reserve also houses other big cats like leopards and wildcats. Herbivores such as spotted deer, sambar deer, andIndian gazelles roam the grasslands and woodlands. The avian population of Amangarh is equally captivating. With over 300 species of birds, the reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airports from Amangarh Tiger Reserve are Dehradun(142 km) and Delhi(170 km)

By Train: The nearest Railway Station from Amangarh Tiger Reserve is Najibabad Railway Station in Bijnor.

By Road: Bijnor is well connected by road to all major cities through NH 709 AD, Meerut-Delhi Paudi Highway A 126. It is accessible with an excellent network of buses/taxis by road.

National Chambal Sanctuary

Covering approximately 5,400 sq kms of area across the three states of Madhya Pradesh Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan is the National Chambal Sanctuary. In Uttar Pradesh, National Chambal Sanctuary is located in two districts of Agra and Etawah, headquartered at Agra Chambal sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh covers an area of 635 sq km. The flagship species of the sanctuary are Fresh Water Dolphin and Gharial

The sanctuary was notified in 1979, mainly to provide protection to the fast dwindling population of the critically endangered Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) Chambal River that rum through the sanctuary is home to the Gharial, providing protection in the wild. Smooth coated Otters, eight species of Turtles, the threatened Gangetic Dolphin and various kinds of fishes are also found in this river.

The sanctuary encompasses a 400 km stretch of the Chambal and the swathes of the Chambal ravines on both sides of the river. In Uttar Pradesh around 180 km stretch of the river comes within the sanctuary. The river forms the core zone and the sandy banks of the river and the land around form the buffer zone. The sanctuary area begins downstream of the Kota barrage in Rajasthan and extends till the confluence of Chambal and Yamuna at Bhareh in Uttar Pradesh

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from National Chambal Sanctuary is Kheria Airport, Agra which is about 107 km from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from National Chambal Sanctuary is Agra Cantt(about 104.5 km) and Mathura Railway Station (about 166 km).

By Road:National Chambal Sanctuary falls in Agra and Etawah Districts of Uttar Pradesh. It is well connected through NH 45 and Agra-Yamuna Expressway by road with all the major cities. It also has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Rest Houses and private accommodations are available at Bah and Agra

Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary

With the aim of safeguarding the fauna and flora of the Vindhyachal region, the Kaimon Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1982, in Sonbhadra, district Mirzapur. The sanctuary’s famous for its Black Buck. A large variety of vegetation is found in the mixed, dry, deciduous forests that cover the area: the primary tree vegetation being Baakli, Mahua, Dhaak and Bamboo. The wildlife comprises of Black Bucks, Chinkaras, Four-Horned Deer, Blue-Bills, Sambar, Cheetals, Bears, Leopards, etc. Apart from these pythons, Gharials/ Crocodiles and different species of snakes are also found. In the wetlands and water filled areas of the sanctuary ‘migratory birds’ are spotted easily. Water holes and watch towers at vantage points provide the tourists a first-hand experience of watching birds and animals in their natural habitat and surroundings.

Pre-historic murals found in the “Lakhania” and other hilly regions and the pre-historic fossils of the Pre-Cambrian times in the “Salakhan” area bear testimony to the ancient origin and existence of this region and mark it as outstandingly important. The other places of tourist attraction and importance are the Eco-Valley, Black Buck Valley, Beauty of Sone and Lord Shiva’s temple at Kanda Kot.

To Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport from the Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi which is about 116 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary is Robertsganj Railway Station, Sonbhadra (about 5 kms).

By Road: Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Mirzapur-Sonbhadra District. It is well connected through UP SH 5A. It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Department Rest House – Harra (Halia) 02 Rooms

Tourist Hut-Mahuria-01 Room

Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary

In 1977, at a distance of 33 kms from Lalitpur the land adjacent to River Betwa now Devgarh was earmarked for setting up a wildlife sanctuary. Primarily this area of Devga comprises Teak trees and is also known as the “last Teak wood forest” in the south-west region of Uttar Pradesh. Also found in the region are Arjun, Tendu, Goonj trees. Bamboo plants are also found on the hilly slopes. In the surrounding areas of Devgarh Sanctuary Wolf Jungle Cat, Hyena, Wild Dog, Mongoose, variety of Deer. Hares and Blue Bull are found in the Betwa River Crocodile, Gharial, Turtles, Pythons and a huge variety of fishes are also found.

A unique feature of this sanctuary is the presence of a group of 41 Jain temples covering an area of approximately 8 acres. The Dashavatar temple premises adorn beautiful sculptures of various Gods and Goddesses, sculpted pillars and edifices, beautiful statutes of the 24 Tirthankars, goddess Saraswati, Lakshmi and Paarvati.

The sanctuary being situated on the banks of river Betwa with the adjoining range of Vindhyachal Hills has a rich fauna and flora. Nests of the nearly extinct Vultures and Bam Owls can be seen in plenty from a height.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from the Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is Khajuraho Airport which is about 220 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary is Lalitpur Junction (about 32 kms).

By Road: Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Lalitpur District. It is well connected through NH 34 and Bundelkhand Expressway. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Department Rest House, Devgarh.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, Tourist Bungalow, Tourist House, Devgarh, Lalitpur Jain Dharamshala, Shri Devgarh Managing Digambar Jain Committee, Devgarh, Lalitpur

Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary

Suhailder Wildlife Sanctuary, in the District circle of Balrampur and Shravasti, close to the Indo-Nepal border is spread over an area of 452 sq kms. It is an important sanctuary for the Royal Bengal Tiger which breeds here in its natural habitat. With a buffer zone of 220 sq km the Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1988.

The sanctuary is situated near an important Buddhist circuit. Shravasti. The Buddhist tourists from here move on to the other holy places on the circuit viz: Kapilvastu, Lumbini and Kushinagar.

With Mongoloid features, the Tharu Tribe found here are wholly dependent on the land for their survival and livelihood.

The vegetation in this sanctuary is rich with Sheesham, Kher, Gho, Jarnun trees, Jigna, Hald Faldu plants etc. Medicinal plants also have their fair share in the forest area. The sanctuary boasts of wild animals like Leopard, Cheetal, Bear, Wolf, Hare, Jackal, Wild Boar/Hog, Sambar Monkey, Langoor, Python, Otter, etc. Large water bodies/reservoirs here attract a number of local and migratory birds like Black Partridge, Quail, Peacock, Kingfisher, Bulbul, Mynah Eagle, Nightingale, Cuckoo and Owl etc.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from the Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary is Chaudhan Charan Singh International Airport which is about 188 kms from there Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary is Balrampur Junction (about 17 kms) and Gonda Junction(about 53 kms).

By Road: Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Balrampur and Shravasti Districts It is well connected through UP SH 1A and NH 330. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest department Rest Houses at Suhailwa, Virpur, Jarwa, Janakpur, Nandmarha and Pipra

Bakhira Bird Sanctuary

Notified in 1990, the Bakfira Bird Sanctuary spread over an area of 29 sq kms, it constitutes The Bakhira Tal, wetlands, Gram Samaj land and some picultural land co Cultivate. More than 40,000 wintering it over 23 species fly down to the sanctuary every year. Resident birds in addition to 5.000 Purple Moorhens and Swamp Hen nest here

To Reach:

By Airi The nearest airport from Bakhira Bird Sanctuary is Gorakhpur Airport which is about 55 km from there. Buses/ Taxi can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Trains By Road:The nearest railway station from Bakhira Bird Sanctuary is Khalilabad Railway Station (about 21 kms).

Bakhira Bird Sanctuary falls there through NH 2 District. It is well connected to all the major cities 27. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Saman Wildlife Sanctuary

Saman Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bhogav, on Agra-Mainpuri-Farrukhabad road. It is well connected from Agra and Aligarh by Road. It can also be accessed by rail, the nearest railway station being Tundla Junction.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Saman Wildlife Sanctuary is Kheria Airport, Agra which is about 134 km from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Saman Wildlife Sanctuary is Etawah Junction(about 45 kms).

By Road: Saman Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Mainpuri District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 29.UP SH 83. UP SH 84. NH 34 and Agra Expressway. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Rest Houses and private accommodations are available at Agra.

Samaspur Bird Sanctuary

The Samaspur Bird Sanctuary: Raebareli was set-up in 1987, spreading over an area of Bst kms. It is a perennial wetland and has a significant bird population of both, migratory and focal varieties

The sanctuary has five lakes that congregate to form the core of the sanctuary, playing host to around 200 species of migratory birds every year. Around 14 species of ducks, 13 species of waders, 4 species of storks and 10 species of Raptors can be found in the sanctuary area invitingly formed by the coming together of the rivers Samaspur, Mamani, Gorwa, Hasanpur Hakganj and Rohnia

The significant migratory birds in Samaspur are Greylag Goose, Bar-headed Goose. White-eyed Pochard Wigeon Brahimini Duck Pintail, Common Teal, Shoveler, Great Crested Grebe and Mallard Resident avian population includes Open-billed Stork, Painted Stork, White Ibis Darter Little Cormorant Indian Cormorant, Lesser Whistling Duck and Purple Heron.

To understand and gain knowledge about the winged visitors and residents a Bird Interpretation Centre has been set up to quench the curiosity and queries of the visitors Watch towers are placed at strategic locations for unobstructed viewing of the birds.

To Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport from Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow which is about 113 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is Raebareli Junction (about 38 kms).

By Road: Samaspur Bird Sanctuary falls in Raebareli district. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 13, SH 34, SH 15, SH 36, SH 38, NH 330 A, NH 30, NH 31 and NH 128. It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

PWD Inspection House, Salon, Raebareli – 02 suites.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across an area of 2073 sq kms. In 1986, it lay alongside the northern tip of the River Ganga, flowing through districts of Muzaffarnagar and Bijnor.

The original route of the river Ganga, which is now just a swampy area, is well known for the inhabitation of the Twelve-Horned Deer or the “Barasingha.” The sanctuary is covered by dense forest on one side and wide expanses of grasslands with a sprinkling of forest on the other. The region inhabits the state animal, “Barasingha”, in addition to Hog Deer, Cheetals, Sambar, Leopard, Wild Cat, Spotted Cat, Monkey, Spider Manikes Fox, Wolf, Jackal, Mongoose, Bijju, Deer, Wild Hog, Hares/Rabbits, Musk-Rat, Batt The state bird. Sarus Crane, is also found here along with Pythons, Wild Otters, Cobra Krait, Viper snakes, and a variety of fishes in the ponds and lakes. Turtles and Ganget Dolphins are found abundant in the River Ganga besides the Crocodiles and Gharials

Corocodile/Gharial breeding projects are being undertaken here. Local birds like Brows Partridges, Black Partridge, Quail, Lava Quail, Peacock, Pigeon, Falcon and Hawk, Spotted Bill, Crane, Eagle, Owl, White Vulture, Cuckoo, Nightingale, Kingfisher, Orie Golden Oriel, Mynah, Raven, Red-vented Bulbul, Seven Sister, Ashy Rain Babbler, Magpie, Robin, Sparrow, Baya, Red Robin, Parrot, etc. flock in numbers near the numerous water bodies present in the region. The water body is also inhabited by migratory birds like-Bar-headed goose, Bromines Duck, Common Teal, etc.

To Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport from Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is about 140 km from there. Buses Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is Bijnor Junction(about 37 kms) and Muzaffarnagar Junction(about 50 kms).

By Road:Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Muzaffarnagar and Bijnor Districts. It is well connected to all the major cities through NH 119. It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Rest House – 2 Rooms

Divisional Director, Social Forestry Division, 223/1, Civil Lines, Meerut

Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad

Bird Sanctuary

(Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary)

The Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary, Nawabganj (earlier known as Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary) on NH 25 (Lucknow- Kanpur Highway) falls in the district of Unnao Uttar Pradesh. It is a combination of a permanent fresh water lake and adjoining marsh land. The lake plays host to both the local and migratory birds.

The sanctuary on the upper-Gangetic plain, is an important destination for over 250 species of birds flying in from Northern Europe, Tibet, China and Siberia. The major migratory birds are Greylag Goose, Pintail, Red-crested Pochard, Gadwall, Coot and Mallard. Resident birds include a mixed heronry of the Sarus Crane. Painted Stork. Black-crowned Night Heron Open-billed Stork and White stork, Peacocks, White Ibis, Dabchick, Whistling Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Bronze-winged Jacana, Purple Moorhen, Lapwing, Tern. Vulture, Wigeon, King Crow, Indian Roller and the Bee-eater.

The sanctuary offers visitors to enjoy bird watching while cycling along the newly constructed cycle track. This track has wooden finish railing on both sides and a live hedge along the lake side. There are viewing platforms, viewing sheds, watch towers and circular chauraha along the cycle track.

An Interpretation Centre in the premises of the sanctuary helps the visitors to quench their curiosity and queries regarding the avians. This centre has modern interactive interpretive material and latest display signage. There is an audio-visual room where visitors can enjoy wildlife film shows.

To Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport from Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow which is about 30 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is Lucknow Junction(about 39 kms) and Kanpur Junction (about 47 kms.)

By Road:Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary falls in Unnao District. It is well connected to all the major cities through NH 25. It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there

Patna Wildlife Sanctuary

This is the smallest Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh, covering an area of just 1 sq kms, but arguably one of the best as over 180 species of birds make their home here.

In winters, the shallow lake inside the migratory birds becomes a riot of sound and colours! The lake, fed by rainwater, dries up in summers.

Among the bird species which have been reported from here are Comb Duck, Cotton Teal, Lesser Whistling Duck and Spot-billed Duck. During the height of winter in December and January, Patna Wildlife Sanctuary welcomes over 60,000 birds. Some of the most stunning winter birds who roost here include the Rosy Pelican, Lesser Flamingo, Eurasian Spoonbill, Mallard and Flat-headed Goose. The most common migratory bird here is the Northern Pintail, which outnumbers all other species.

To Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport from Patna Wildlife Sanctuary is Kheria Airport, Agra which is about 60 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Patna Wildlife Sanctuary is Etah Railway Station (about 50 kms).

By Road:Patna Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Etah District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 31, UP SH 85, NH 321 and NH 91 poor. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Rest Houses and private accommodations are available at Agra.

Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread over an area of 428 sq kms. Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Maharajganj district of Uttar Pradesh, close to the Indo-Nepal border in the North and interstate U.P-Bihar border to the East.

The Terai grasslands of this sanctuary make for an ideal habitat for a diverse range of animals and birds, including the Royal Bengal Tiger. The sanctuary has a number of ponds, lakes, swamps and open grass lands.

The area under this sanctuary consists of beautiful forest cover. Nearly 75% of the area consists of Sal forest and other humid areas are covered with Jamun, Gutal, Semal, Khair trees, etc. The lower region of the sanctuary which is water logged during rains consists of grass lands and patches of Cane forests.

Such a varied area is inhabited by a variety of animals which mainly includes Leopard, Tiger Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Langur, Deer, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild boar, Porcupine etc.

The Avifauna is varied with Little Cormorant, Snake Bird, Brahminy Duck, Common Teal, Little Egret, Cattle Egret, Paddy Bird, Pintail, White Ibis, Black Ibis, Spoon Bill, Grey Partridge, Swamp Partridge, Red Jungle Fowl, Blue Rock Pigeon, Spotted Dove, Pea Fowl, Indian Pied Hornbill, Tree Pie, Little Green Bee-eater, Pond Heron, Red-vented Bulbul, Golden Backed Woodpecker, Pied Kingfisher, Blue Kingfisher, etc.

The Reptilians are represented by Python, Tortoise, Crocodile, Common Cobra, Common Krait, Rat Snake etc.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary is Gorakhpur Airport, which is about 82 km from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary is Gorakhpur Junction(about 82 kms).

By Road: Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Muzaffarnagar District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 1, UP SH 1A, UP SH 81, NH 328, NH 27 and NH 730.It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accomodations:

Tourist Guest House- 11 Rooms

Reservation: Manager, Tourist Guest House, Nawabganj

Forest Rest House- 3 Rooms

Reservation: DFO, Unnao, Unnao Forest Division

Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary

The Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary, spread over an area of 80 sq kms, encompasses the two Ox Bow Lakes, Lakh and Bahosi and the adjoining wetlands. Situated just 38 kms from the historic town of Kannauj the sanctuary is an important breeding and nesting habitat for several species of Water-Fowl. During winter months, various species of birds flock to these two lakes, which are 6 kms apart. The two lakes are inter-linked by a walking path, Lakh being the first

More than 50,000 birds descend on the two lakes every year including the vulnerable Greater-Spotted Eagle. Lakh Bahosi has been listed as an “Important Bird Area” in India by the Bird Life International. It is also one of the wetlands, listed for conservation under the Ministry of Environment and Forests’ National Wetland Conservation programme.

Lakh Bahosi Sanctuary popular in the tourist maps is a treasure trove for any ornithologist with a fair spotting of Water-Fowl like Greylag Goose, Black-headed Gull, White Stork Common Greenshank, Bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, Shoveler among many others. Resident avian population includes Open-billed Stork, Painted Stork, Wooly-Necked Stork and Black-Necked Stork.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary is Kanpur Airport, which is about 116 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary is Kannauj Junction(about 38 kms).

By Road: Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary falls in Kannauj District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 29 A, NH 24, NH 34 and GT Road. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Tourist Guest House (Kannauj) – 4 Rooms Forest Rest House (Kannauj) – 3 Rooms

CF Endangered species Project

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary

Notified in 1997, the Parwati Arga Bird Sanctuary plays host to a number of migratory birds every winter. It is situated 40 kms away from Gonda District.

The sanctuary is spread over an area of 11 sq kms and consists of two wetlands; namely Parwati and Arga. Over 40,000 wintering Waterfowl fly down to the sanctuary every year while resident birds like Purple Moorhen and Swamp Hen nest here. More than 23 species of Waterfowl have been reported from here. The state bird Sarus Crane finds ideal habitat in this area. Animals like Jackal, Nilgal, etc. are also found here.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow which is about 130 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Parvati Arga Wildlife Sanctuary is Gonda Junction(about 37 kms).

By Road: Parvati Arga Wildlife Sanctuary falls in Gonda District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 1A, UP SH 9, and NH 330 B.It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is situated in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh, forming part of the Terai Arc Landscape, in the upper Gangetic Plain. The Sharada river along with the forest area forms a beautiful landscape.

The Sal forests which are known for their rich biodiversity are home to various species of birds and animals. These forests offer an opportunity to renew your ties with nature.

To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport from Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow which is about 230 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is Pilibhit Junction(about 20 kms).

By Road: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve falls in Pilibhit District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 26, UP SH 29, UP SH 33, and NH 730 and NH 731K. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Okhla Bird Sanctuary

Situated in Gautam Budh Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, Okhla Bird Sanctuary was declared and brought into existence in 1990. Kalindi Kunj, to the south of Okhla Bird Sanctuary is a very blissful and enjoyable place with its serene surroundings and natural bounty.

Covering an area of 4 sq kms, the sanctuary came into existence with the establishment of Okhla Barrage over the Yamuna in 1984. Having become a popular spot for bird watching with experts and enthusiasts, the barrage and the surrounding marshland was protected and declared a sanctuary in 1990.

A motorable road inside the sanctuary goes on for a little over a kilometer, before turning into a narrow walking trail. A large lake, created by damming of Yamuna is the heart of the sanctuary, housing numerous varieties of birds. Watch towers have been strategically placed in open fields that not only help spotting the avifauna but also offer great views of the sanctuary.

During winters, local and migratory birds flocking to local ponds and water bodies are a treat to the eyes and an opportunity for bird lovers to have a really enjoyable sighting

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Okhla Bird Sanctuary is Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, which is about 23 kms from there.

By Train: Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination. The nearest railway station from Okhla Bird Sanctuary is Ghaziabad Junction(about 28 kms).

By Road: Okhla Bird Sanctuary falls in Gautam Buddh Nagar District. It is well connected to all the major cities through Noida/Greater Noida Expressway, Yamuna Expressway and Agra Expressway.It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

1. Forest Rest House, Okhla-01 Room

2. Irrigation Department Rest House, Okhla – 02 Rooms Executive Engineer

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is popularly known as Keetham Lake, after the lake and the area surrounding it which constitutes the sanctuary. Keetham Lake, a haven for waterfowl, was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1991. The lake is home to over 126 species of migratory and resident waterfowls. Initially covering a modest area of 4.03 sq kms, the Forest Department later expanded the sanctuary area to cover 8 sq kms by planting trees around the lake to increase the green cover for its wildlife.

One can hear the rustle of the leaves, the muffled sounds of wild animals moving and even the occasional hiss of snakes. Hog Deer, Spotted Deer, Nilgal and Monitor Lizards can be easily seen in the woods.

To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport from Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is Kheria Airport, Agra which is about 20 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination

By Train: The nearest railway station from Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is Agra Cantt Junction(about 20 kms) and Agra Fort Junction(about 21 kms).

By Road: The nearest railway station from Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is Agra Cantt Junction(about 20 kms) and Agra Fort Junction(about 21 kms).

The nearest railway station from Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is Agra Cantt Junction(about 20 kms) and Agra Fort Junction(about 21 kms).

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary falls in Agra District. It is well connected to all the major cities through NH 2, NH 44, Yamuna Expressway and Agra Expressway. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

Forest Rest Houses and private accommodations are available at Agra.

Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary

To provide a safe sanctuary and protection to the local and foreign migratory birds, an area of 262 hectares adjoining the Beeja Nagar Jheel and its surroundings was converted into a bird sanctuary and declared a safe and no hunting-zone in 1990.

This Bird Sanctuary is nestled in the Vindhyachal range of hills making home to around 200 species of local and migratory birds. The migratory birds like Goose, Pin Tail, Common Teal, Cotton Teal, Red Crested Pochard, Surkhab, Coot etc. start coming in from the month of November and by December-January the sanctuary is abound with them. With the onset of warm days from March onwards these visitors start flying back to their homes only to return the following year. Some local species such as Spot-billed Duck, Sarus Crane, Painted Stork, White/Black Ibis, Dub Chick, Grebe, Spoon Bill, Open-billed Stork, Cormorants, Egrets, Red-vented Bulbul, Lapwing, Robin, Sandpiper, King Vulture, Scavenger Vulture, Common Parrot etc. stay back in this sanctuary, making their nests and laying eggs to make it their permanent home

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary is Khajuraho Airport, which is about 97 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train:The nearest railway station from Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary is Mahoba Junction(about 10 kms).

By Road: Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary falls in Gautam Mahoba District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 21, NH 27 and NH 34. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Accommodations:

1. Forest Department Rest House – Vijay Sagar, Divisional Forest Officer, Mahoba.

2. Inspection House – Mahoba District Magistrate – Mahoba

3. Irrigation Department Inspection House, Executive Engineer; Mahoba

4. Tourist Bungalow-Mahoba Manager, Tourist Bungalow, Mahoba

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary is located in the Kunda town of the Pratapgarh district, in Uttar Pradesh. Bearing a southern tangent to Kunda, adjacent to River Ganga, it is at a distance of 13 kms from the main town. This region is a part of the alluvial land mass of the Gangetic plains.

An abundance of birds, reptiles, fishes, amphibians and invertebrates are found. Every year hundreds of local and migratory birds, from India and abroad flock here with the onset of winter season and inhabit this region till the beginning of the spring season.

Rosy Pelican, Graylag Goose, Pintail, Common Teal, Garganey Teal, Red-crested Pochard, Common Pochard, Wigeon, Gadwal, Shoveler, Coot, Surkhab, Great Crested Grebe, Gulls, Marsh Sandpipers, White Stork, etc. can be seen in numbers in the sanctuary during winters. Sarus Crane, Open-billed Stork, Painted Stork, White Necked Stork, Black Necked Stork, White Ibis, Glossy Ibis, Black Ibis, Spoon Bill, Darter, Little Cormorant, Common Kingfisher, White-breasted Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Large and little Egret, Purple Heron, Pond Heron, Purple Moorhen, Water Hen. Black-winged Stilt, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Bronze-winged Jacana, Spot-billed Duck, Comb Duck, Whistling Teal, Marsh Harrier, Shikra, Pariah Kite, Grey Headed Fish Eagle, Sparrowhawk, variety of Falcons, Wild Pigeon, Spotted Munia, Crow Pheasant and numerous Mynahs and Peacocks are also seen.

To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary is Bamrauli Airport, which is about 75 kms from there. Buses/ Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary is Kunda Junction(about 13 kms) and Prayagraj Junction(about 48 kms).

By Road: Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary falls in Pratapgarh District. It is well connected to all the major cities and has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Sandi Bird Sanctuary

Sandi Bird sanctuary having an area of 3.09 hectares is situated in Hardoi district on Hardoi- Sandi Road around the Deher Jheel and the Garra river. In 1991, Sandi wetlands were declared as Sandi Bird Sanctuary. It is said that the migratory birds halt for sometime in this river before visiting the Sandi Bird Sanctuary. The aim of the Sanctuary is protection and conservation of the wetland with special emphasis to the local and migratory birds, conservation of their natural habitat including aquatic plants and animals. The Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai (BNHS) has also listed this Sanctuary as one of the ‘Important Bird Area’ sites. This wetland is included in the list of wetlands identified under the National Wetland Conservation Programme by The Ministry of Environment & Forest, Govt. of India.

To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport from Sandi Bird Sanctuary is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow which is about 110 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Sandi Bird Sanctuary is Hardoi Junction(about 25 kms).

By Road: Sandi Bird Sanctuary falls in Hardoi District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 21, UP SH 25, UP SH 29 A, and Agra Expressway. It has an excellent network of public/ private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary

Surha Taal’, was created by the consolidation of the land area of 45 villages of Baansdih in Ballia town area, aggregating to a total of 3432.93 hectares area. Its name was changed to “Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary”. Locals still refer to this water body by its previous name. “Surha Taal. Starting at a distance of 10 kms away from the Ballia City area, stretching up to Bhikampur village to its west, Singhauli in the north-east it is bound by Dulwara Village in the south-east direction.

The Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary falls under the jurisdiction of Ballia and Baansdih town area. Legends tied to the ‘Surha Taal highlight its historical, traditional and religious background. 45 villages abound in the vicinity of the Surha Taal and the Surha Taal is a source of livelihood to the population of these villages. Apart from fishing the population also engages in agro activities. During rainy seasons an area of approximately 25000 hectares gets submerged, providing a natural expansion of the natural habitat

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport from J.P. Narain Bird Sanctuary is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi which is about 169 kms from there. Buses/Taxis can be hired from the airport for the destination.

By Train: The nearest railway station from J. P. Narain Bird Sanctuary is Kunda Junction(about 13 kms) and Prayagraj Junction (about 48 kms).

By Road: J.P. Narain Bird Sanctuary falls in Ballia District. It is well connected to all the major cities through UP SH 1 and UP SH 34. It has an excellent network of public/private bus and taxi services to and from there.

Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s most diverse and culturally rich states, is also home to a variety of wildlife sanctuaries that showcase the region’s natural beauty and ecological importance. The state boasts a wide range of habitats, from wetlands and grasslands to forests and riverine ecosystems, making it a haven for flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh not only play a critical role in the conservation of wildlife but also attract nature lovers, eco-tourists, and wildlife enthusiasts.