10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rajasthan: Get Close to Nature

If you are planning to enjoy a day amidst the wildlife in your vacation, then the exotic wildlife of Rajasthan calls you. Rajasthan is not just rich in history and architecture, but the royal state also has the green side of the state to portray. The destination has a plethora of wildlife sanctuaries. Rajasthan is home to species of rare birds and mammals. From semi green forests present in Mount Abu to the beautiful dry grasslands of the desert and deciduous forest of Aravali, it never fails to attract tourists for an unforgettable journey and holiday experience. Go on reading to know more about the Wildlife Sanctuaries in Rajasthan.

10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Rajasthan

If you like to get in the wild and wish to go closer to nature, then visit these sanctuaries in Rajasthan to enjoy a great time amidst the lush greenery and wildlife. 

1. Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary – Kota 

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect spot for wildlife lovers. The beauty of the forests and wildlife is impressive enough to seduce nature lovers. The sanctuary is easily accessible by bus and taxi as it is just 50 km from Kota. In the year 1955, the wildlife sanctuary was declared a protected reserve. In earlier times, the land was a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Kota. With an uncountable number of tigers, rhinos, and widespread forest area, this is paradise.

2. Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary – Karauli

One of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan is the Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is an extension to the Ranthambore National Park. In 1980, When Ranthambore was declared as a national park, the adjacent grasslands were by default converted into sanctuaries. The sanctuary serves as an example among environmentalists for forest protection resolutions. The sanctuary is close to Jaipur, hence a bus or taxi from any part of the city is suggested to reach the sanctuary.

Also read: 10 Best Things To Do In Ranthambore – Unspoilt Nature and Culture Of Rajasthan

3. National Chambal Sanctuary – Kota

The National Chambal Sanctuary was built to protect the red-crowned roof turtle, the endangered Ganges river dolphin, and the gharial. The beautiful Chambal river cuts through the sanctuary and runs at a point where the three states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh combine. To reach the sanctuary a bus from Agra is the best and most convenient option. The sanctuary is limited to the waters and the fauna too. Mammals like Tortoises, fish, mugger crocodiles, and other water mammals are found in the majority.

Also read: Experience the best of Kota! A guide for your vacation in 2024

4. Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary – Bundi

The Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is located 15 km from Bundi and acts as a buffer zone for the Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary. With just 15 km from Bundi city, a bus or private taxi will easily ferry you to the sanctuary. The sanctuary houses many wild predators including panthers, tigers, hyenas, and antelopes The sanctuary also has widespread vegetation including mango and Khair trees. For visiting the sanctuary, you need to take special permission from the forest department. 

Also read: Top 8 Things to do in Rajasthan For an Ultimate Vacation in 2024

5. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary – Chittorgarh

The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is stretched over the western border of the Vindhyachal mountains. The sanctuary is a delight for nature lovers because of its picturesque grasslands and vivid landscape. You can find a variety of wildlife including panthers, jackals, hyenas, cheetah, antelopes, and wild boars. The Bassi and Orai dam are also some important attractions of the sanctuary.  The sanctuary is well accessible from Chittorgarh so a hired taxi or bus is very much recommended to travel.

Also read: Chittorgarh Fort – Revisit the Times of Elegant Rani Padmavati

6. Jaisamand Sanctuary – Udaipur

Jaisamand Sanctuary is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan due to its hills, valleys, and lakes. The sanctuary is located on the banks of Dhebar or Jaisamand lake, which is the second-largest artificial lake in Asia. The sanctuary consists of a variety of fauna and flora. The shores are covered with teak forests while the fauna is widespread including chital, langur, crocodiles, turtles, and fishes. The sanctuary is very easily accessible by road from Udaipur to hire a taxi or take the local bus.

Also read: 10 Best Resorts in Udaipur to Stay in 2024 For An Amazing Sojourn

7. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary – Bikaner

Bikaner as a city is famous for its heritage and culture. The city forms a major connection between the Golden Triangle. However, the place is home to vivid flora and fauna. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the many places to visit in Bikaner. The sanctuary was formerly a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Bikaner. The sanctuary attracts nature enthusiasts who want to explore the desert wildlife. Slowly but steadily, the sanctuary is gaining popularity. Hire a cab or auto from any part of the city or take an adventurous camel ride to reach the sanctuary.

Also read: Junagarh Fort Bikaner: History, Architecture, Attractions & More

8. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary – Churu

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is located in the Shekhawati region of Churu district. The sanctuary is small in size but is rich in biodiversity with animals including desert cats, chinkara, and migratory birds from Siberia. With Jaipur being the closest city, It is one of the finest weekend getaways from Jaipur, located just 200 km away, a bus or hired taxi would be the best way to reach the sanctuary.

9. Desert National Sanctuary – Jaisalmer

Desert National Sanctuary which is situated close to Jaisalmer, is another major Sanctuary of Rajasthan. It spreads across 3162 sq kilometres or area forming the largest national park in India. The sanctuary provides a brilliant desert ecosystem. The landscape is also unique. Despite its landscape, the sanctuary is filled with birdlife. The most common birds found here include the Great Indian Bustard, kestrels, sand grouse, laggard falcons, tawny eagles, spotted eagles, vultures, falcons, harrier, short-toed eagles, buzzards, and eagles. You will also find a great collection of animal and plant fossils about 180 million years old. 

10. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Kumbhalgarh

The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Kumbhalgarh. It is located in the district of Rajsamand in Rajasthan. It covers an area of about 578 sq km while surrounding the borders of the Kumbhalgarh Fort. In this sanctuary, you will find a wide variety of animals, out of which many of them are endangered species. The animals you will get to see in the sanctuary in abundance include chinkaras, hares, four-horned antelopes, sambhar, nilgai, jungle cats, sloth bears, hyenas, wolves, and leopards. The sanctuary is also the home of a large variety of birds including grey jungle fowl, doves, bulbuls, peacocks, white-breasted kingfisher, golden oriole, pigeons, and parakeets. The natural beauty of the sanctuary is what attracts visitors from all over the world to this place. People can reach Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary by road via the NH-76 from Udaipur.

Also read: 10 Best Forts in Rajasthan to Visit in 2024

Rajasthan is best known as the land of kings and is famous for its rich history. It remains to buzz with tourists all round the year. It is an ideal place for both history and wildlife lovers. So while you’re planning a vacation in Rajasthan make sure to enjoy a time away from the hustle-bustle and enjoy a great time amid the wildlife. So kick-start your bookings to the vibrant city with Pickyourtrail.