A Short Note On Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rajasthan

For as long as anyone can remember, Rajasthan has always been the crown gem of Indian tourism. Pictures of its palaces and forts have captivated millions of people not just from outside but even from here in our nation. Rajasthan has something for everyone, from the opulent suite of Rambagh Palace at Jaipur to the deserted Havelis of Shekhawati and, of course, the ancient maharajas’ hunting grounds, which has now been transformed into national parks as well as wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan.

Sanctuaries in Rajasthan

If you prefer being outdoors and being connected to nature, visit Rajasthan’s wildlife sanctuaries to have a fantastic time surrounded by lush flora and animals.

1. Karauli Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kailadevi Nature Reserve is one of Rajasthan’s most prominent wildlife sanctuaries. The sanctuary is part of the Ranthambore National Park. When the Ranthambore National Park was established in 1980, the nearby grasslands were automatically designated as sanctuaries. This sanctuary serves as a basis for forest conservation resolutions among environmentalists.

2. Kota Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary

Darrah Animal Sanctuary is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. The natural splendour of the trees and wildlife is enough to entice nature enthusiasts. The refuge is about 50 km from Kota and is easily accessible by bus and taxi. The animal sanctuary was designated as a protected reserve in 1955. Previously, the property was used as a hunting ground by the honourable Maharajas of Kota. This is a paradise with a large number of rhinos, tigers, and a vast forest in Rajasthan.

3. Kota National Chambal Sanctuary

This National Sanctuary in Chambal was established to conserve the endangered red-crowned roof turtle, Ganges river dolphins, and gharials. The picturesque Chambal river passes through the sanctuary, connecting the three states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The sanctuary is restricted to the waterways and flora, and animals. Mugger crocodiles, tortoises, fish, and other aquatic animals make up the bulk.

4. Chittorgarh’s Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bassi Nature Reserve runs along the western edge of the Vindhyachal hills. Because of its stunning meadows and vibrant surroundings, the reserve is a joy for wildlife enthusiasts. Rarely viewed animals, such as panthers, jackals, hyenas, cheetahs, antelopes, and wild boars can be found here. The Bassi, as well as Orai dams, are additional notable features of the sanctuary. This one of the wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan is easily accessible from Chittorgarh.

5. Churu’s Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

The Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is situated in the Churu district’s Shekhawati area. The sanctuary is tiny in area, but it is rich in biodiversity, with creatures such as chinkara, desert cats, and Siberian migrating birds. Having Jaipur as the closest city, this is one of the greatest vacation trips from Jaipur, located only 200 km away; a bus or rented cab would be the ideal means of reaching the sanctuary. 

6. Bikaner’s Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

Bikaner is well-known for its tradition and culture. The city serves as a vital link in the Golden Triangle. However, the area is rich in vegetation and animals. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary has been one of the numerous attractions in Bikaner. Previously, the sanctuary was used as a hunting place for the Rajas of Bikaner. The reserve draws nature lovers who wish to learn about the desert’s biodiversity. 

7. Udaipur’s Jaisamand Sanctuary

For its hills, lakes and valleys, Jaisamand Sanctuary is among Rajasthan’s top wildlife sanctuaries. The sanctuary is situated on the shores of Dhebar as well as Jaisamand Lake, Asia’s second-largest man-made lake. Teak woods surround the beaches, and the wildlife is diverse, comprising langur, chital, crocodiles, fishes and turtles. 

8. Bundi’s  Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Reserve

The Ramgarh Vishdhari Nature Reserve is home to various vegetation and animal species. The Ranthambore Conservation Sanctuary is approximately 15 km from Bundi and serves as a buffer state for the sanctuary. Many natural predators live in the refuge, including tigers, hyenas, panthers, and antelopes. The sanctuary also features a lot of greenery, including mango and khair trees.

9. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary 

One of the greatest locations to visit in Kumbhalgarh is the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated in the Rajasthan district of Rajsamand. It encircles the Kumbhalgarh Fort and encompasses an area of approximately 578 sq km. Four-horned antelopes, chinkaras, hares,  sambhar, nilgai, jungle cats, wolves, sloth bears, hyenas, and leopards are among the creatures you will encounter in plenty in the sanctuary. A wide variety of birds live at the sanctuary, including grey jungle fowl,  bulbuls,  golden oriole, pigeons, doves, peacocks, white-breasted kingfisher, and parakeets.

10. Jaisalmer Desert Sanctuary 

Another important wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan is the Desert National Sanctuary, which is located near Jaisalmer. It covers an area of 3162 square kilometres, making it India’s biggest national park. The scenery is likewise one-of-a-kind. Despite its natural setting, the refuge is teeming with birds. The Great Indian Bustard, lagging falcons, harrier, tawny eagles, kestrels, sandgrouse spotted eagles, short-toed eagles, buzzards, vultures, falcons, and eagles are the most frequent birds found here. There is also a large collection of flora and fauna fossils dating back 180 million years.

Conclusion

So, if you want to spend a day surrounded by animals on your holiday, Rajasthan’s diverse wildlife is calling. Rajasthan is not only rich in history and architecture, but the royal kingdom also has a green side to show. There are several wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan that provide a home to several unique bird and animal species. It never fails to entice tourists with a memorable journey and holiday experience, from the semi-green woods of Mount Abu to the stunning dry grassland of the desert and deciduous woodland of Aravali.