Uttar Pradesh, a state rich in history and culture, also boasts an incredible natural heritage with several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These protected areas not only contribute to the conservation of biodiversity but also offer visitors a chance to witness the untamed beauty of nature. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore some of the prominent national parks in Uttar Pradesh(UP), each providing a unique wilderness experience and contributing to the state’s ecological diversity.
1. Dudhwa National Park:
Location: Lakhimpur Kheri District
Highlights:
- Diverse Flora and Fauna: Dudhwa National Park, situated in the Terai region, is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian one-horned rhinoceros, and numerous species of deer.
- Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Dudhwa is part of the Dudhwa-Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary that spans across the India-Nepal border. The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with a plethora of avian species.
- Safari Experience: Explore Dudhwa’s wilderness through jungle safaris, where you might encounter not only big cats but also the elusive Indian rhinoceros and Asiatic elephants.
Travel Tips:
- Plan your visit between November and April for the best wildlife sightings.
- Dudhwa is accessible by road from major cities like Lucknow and Delhi.
2. Jim Corbett National Park:
Location: Nainital District
Highlights:
- Oldest National Park in India: Established in 1936, Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India. It is named after the legendary hunter turned conservationist, Jim Corbett.
- Biodiversity: The park is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and various species of deer. It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 600 bird species.
- River Ramganga: The park is traversed by the Ramganga River, offering picturesque landscapes. Safari options include jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and even a unique Corbett Landscape Safari.
Travel Tips:
- Choose from various zones for safari experiences, each offering a different terrain and wildlife sightings.
- Jim Corbett National Park is well-connected by road and can be reached from Delhi and nearby cities.
3. Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Chandauli District
Highlights:
- Varied Ecosystems: Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, situated near the town of Varanasi, encompasses diverse ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies.
- Chandra Prabha Dam: The sanctuary is known for the Chandra Prabha Dam, and the reservoir created by the dam adds to the scenic beauty. Boat rides on the reservoir offer a unique way to explore the sanctuary.
- Wildlife: While not as famous for large mammals, the sanctuary is home to various species of deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species.
Travel Tips:
- Combine your visit to Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary with a trip to the spiritual city of Varanasi.
- The sanctuary is accessible by road, and the nearest railway station is Varanasi Junction.
4. Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Mirzapur District
Highlights:
- Ancient Rock Paintings: Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Kaimur Range, is not only a haven for wildlife enthusiasts but also for those interested in history. The sanctuary is home to ancient rock paintings dating back to prehistoric times.
- Diverse Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer. Birdwatchers can spot several avian species in the region.
- Scenic Landscapes: The Kaimur Range provides a backdrop of scenic landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Travel Tips:
- Plan your visit between October and March for pleasant weather.
- The sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Varanasi and Allahabad.
5. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary:
Location: Unnao District
Highlights:
- Migratory Birds: Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, situated on the Rapti River, is known for hosting a large number of migratory birds during the winter months. Species like the Siberian crane, pintail, and gadwall can be spotted.
- Lake Nawabganj: The sanctuary surrounds the picturesque Lake Nawabganj, which adds to the serene ambiance. Boating is a popular activity for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Rich Avian Diversity: Apart from migratory birds, the sanctuary is home to a variety of resident bird species, making it a year-round destination for birdwatching.
Travel Tips:
- The best time to visit is from November to February when migratory birds are present.
- Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Lucknow.
6. Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Bahraich District
Highlights:
- Gharial Conservation: Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, situated along the Indo-Nepal border, is known for its efforts in gharial conservation. The Girwa River within the sanctuary is a crucial habitat for this critically endangered species.
- Diverse Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. It is part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.
- Corbett Landscape: The sanctuary is part of the larger Corbett Landscape, providing a contiguous habitat for wildlife across the region.
Travel Tips:
- Explore the sanctuary through jeep safaris and boat rides along the Girwa River.
- Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from major cities like Lucknow and Bareilly.
7. Samaspur Bird Sanctuary:
Location: Rae Bareli District
Highlights:
- Wetland Habitat: Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, is known for its wetland habitat. It attracts a variety of migratory birds, including waterfowl and waders.
- Rich Avifauna: The sanctuary is home to a diverse avian population, making it a birdwatcher’s delight. Spot species like the Siberian crane, bar-headed goose, and various types of ducks.
- Natural Trails: The sanctuary offers natural trails for visitors to explore the wetland ecosystem and observe birds in their natural habitat.
Travel Tips:
- Visit during the winter months for the highest concentration of migratory birds.
- Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Lucknow and Allahabad.
8. Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Maharajganj District
Highlights:
- Riverine Ecosystem: Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary, situated along the Indo-Nepal border, is characterized by its riverine ecosystem. The Gandak River flows through the sanctuary, creating a habitat for diverse wildlife.
- Gangetic Dolphins: The sanctuary is home to the endangered Gangetic dolphin. Boat safaris on the Gandak River provide opportunities to spot these elusive marine mammals.
- Migratory Birds: Apart from dolphins, the sanctuary attracts migratory birds, creating a unique blend of riverine and avian biodiversity.
Travel Tips:
- Plan your visit during the winter months for birdwatching and dolphin sightings.
- Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Gorakhpur and Lucknow.
9. Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Banda District
Highlights:
- Dry Deciduous Forests: Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Vindhyan Range, is characterized by dry deciduous forests. The sanctuary is known for its rugged landscapes and diverse flora.
- Leopard Conservation: The sanctuary is home to leopards, making it an important area for leopard conservation. Other wildlife includes antelopes, wild boars, and various bird species.
- Rock Formations: Explore the sanctuary’s unique rock formations, adding a geological dimension to your wildlife experience.
Travel Tips:
- The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
- Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Allahabad and Varanasi.
10. Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary:
Location: Meerut District
Highlights:
- Ganga River Basin: Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Ganga River basin, is known for its diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, wetlands, and riverine habitats.
- Great Indian Bustard: The sanctuary is home to the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Efforts are ongoing to conserve this iconic species in its natural habitat.
- Religious and Historical Significance: Apart from wildlife, the sanctuary has religious and historical significance, with several temples and ancient sites scattered throughout the region.
Travel Tips:
- Explore the sanctuary’s biodiversity through jeep safaris and nature walks.
- Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Meerut and Delhi.
Conclusion:
Uttar Pradesh, often celebrated for its cultural and historical landmarks, also beckons nature enthusiasts to explore its diverse and vibrant wildlife. The national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the state provide a refuge for endangered species, a haven for migratory birds, and a scenic backdrop for those seeking solace in nature. Whether you’re captivated by the roar of a Bengal tiger, the graceful flight of a Siberian crane, or the tranquil beauty of a riverine landscape, Uttar Pradesh’s national parks offer an enriching experience for every nature lover. So, embark on a journey into the wild, witness the wonders of the state’s natural heritage, and let the untamed beauty of Uttar Pradesh leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.