Rajaji National Park

Situated at the edge of the sprawling Dehradun valley, the Rajaji National Park was founded in 1966 and covers an area of about 820 sq. kms.

The wildlife here includes elephant, tiger, panther, bear, chital, sambar, wild boar, kakar, python, monitor lizard and a wide variety of avian fauna.

Where to stay : The sanctuary has 10 forest guest houses and ther are many hotels and tourist complexes around Rajaji National Park at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun and Mussoorie which make it very convenient to visit the Park.

How to get there : Rajaji National park is accessible from many directions by road, rail and air. Bus services and overnight trains are available for Dehradun and Haridwar from Delhi and Lucknow. It is very well connected by road from Saharanpur which in turn is very well connected by rail to Delhi, Lucknow, Amritsar, Jammu Tawi and Kolkata. Jolly Grant Airport which is only a few kilometers away from the northern boundary of the Park, has a daily 50 minute flight from Delhi.

Contact : Director, Rajaji National Park, 5/1 Ansari Marg Dehradun-248001, TelePhone 24225.

Wildlife In Uttar Pradesh

Dudhwa National Park

Covering an area of about 500 sq. kms., Dudhwa National Park, along the Indo-Nepal border in Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, is best known for the Barasingha or Swamp Deer. Among the big cats, tigers abound at Dudhwa. There are also a few leopards. The other animals found in large numbers, are the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and the wild elephant. Other animals found in Dudhwa are jungle cats, leopard cats, fishing cats, jackals, civets, sloth bears, sambar, otters, crocodiles and chital.

Among reptiles, pythons and monitor lizards are fairly common. Dudhwa is also a bird-watcher's paradise. Dudhwa, perhaps, houses the greatest number of owls and storks. The great Indian horned owl, the forest eagle owl, the brown fish owl, the tawny owl, the dusky horned owl, the scops owl, brown wood owl and the jungle owlet are found in plenty. The storks, which abound here, are the black-necked stork, white-necked stork, black stork, painted stork, white stork, open-billed stork and the adjutant stork.

In a bid to save the Indian one-homed rhinoceros, seven rhinos from Assam and Nepal were introduced into Dudhwa in 1984-85. Currently, 15 rhinos can be spotted in Dudhwa.

When to visit : The best time to visit is November to May.

Where to stay : Dudhwa Forest Home, Log Huts, Dormitory, tent, rest houses at Soniarpur, Sathiana.

How to get there : The nearest town is Palia (10 Kms.). From Delhi (430 Kms.). : By rail upto Shajahanpur, and onwards by road. From Lucknow (250 Kms.): By rail upto Mailani, and onwards by road.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Dudhwa National Park, Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh – 262701.

Wildlife in Rajasthan

Bharatpur National Park

Situated in eastern Rajasthan, about 176 kms. away from Delhi, and 50 kms. west of Agra, is the Keoladeo Ghana or Bharatpur National Park, one of the most spectacular bird sanctuaries in India, nesting indigenous water-birds as well as migratory water birds and water side birds. It is also inhabited by sambar, chital, nilgai and boar. More than 300 species of birds are found in this small park of 29 sq. kms. of which 11 sq. kms. are marshes and the rest, scrubland and grassland. Crane: Of all the exotic migrant birds that arrive in Bharatpur ever year, the most sought after is the Siberian Crane or the great white crane, which migrates to this site every year, covering a distance of more than half the globe. These birds, numbering only a few hundred, are on the verge of extinction. They arrive in December and stay till early March.

When to visit : The park is open throughout the year, although most visitors choose to come between October and February, when wintering wildfowl assemble in thousands on the lakes. The breeding season is between August and October.

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at the Forest Lodge (1TDC), Saras Tourist Bungalow (RTDC), Shanti Kutir, Forest Rest House and private hotels near the park.

How to get there : The nearest railhead is Bharatpur (2 Kms.) and the nearest airport is at Agra (52 kms).

Contact : Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan.

Ranthambore National Park (Project Tiger)

Near the township of Sawai Madhopur, in the state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is an outstanding example of Project Tiger's efforts at tiger conservation in the country.

As a result of stringent conservation efforts, tigers, the prime asset of the Park, have become more and more active during the day. More than in any other park or sanctuary in India, tigers are easily spotted here in daylight. They can be seen lolling around lazily in the sun or feverishly hunting down sambar around the lakes. Therefore, Ranthambore is probably the ideal park for wildlife photography and attracts professional wildlife photographers from all over the world. Apart from tigers, the park also has its share of panthers. They are to be found on the outskirts of the park due to the inevitable conflicts with the tiger population. Kachida Valley is believed to be the place to sight these rather elusive cats. The other permanent residents of the park include marsh crocodiles, hyenas, jungle cats and sloth bears. Sambar, found in abundance all over the area, are the prime target of all the predators. Chital, nilgai and chinkara, are the other inhabitants of the region. The avian population comprises of black storks, quails, Bonelli's eagles, spur fowls, crested serpent eagles and painted storks. During the winter months, the Park attracts a lot of migratory birds, primarily a variety of ducks.

The Park is best explored through jeeps, which are available on hire.

When to visit : The best time to visit the park is between October and June.

Where to stay : RTDC Jhoomar Baori Forest Lodge, RTDC Hotel. Kamdhenu, Maharaja Lodge (Taj Group), Sawai Madhopur Lodge, PWD Rest House, and Jogi Mahal (located within the Park premises) are some of the available means of accomodation.

How to get there :

By Air : Jaipur (145 kms.) is the nearest airport.

By Rail : The Park is around 11 kms. away from Sawai Madhopur railway station, that lies on the Delhi to Muimbai truck route.

By Road : A good network of buses connect Sawai Madhopur, the nearest town, with quite a few areas around.

Contact : Field Director, Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan.

Sariska Tiger Reserve

Sariska is located at Kankwari fort, near Alwar, on the Delhi - Jaipur Highway. The terrain is predominantly hilly, as it lies in the Aravalli range. It has total area of 788 sq. kms., with a core area of approximately 474 sq. kms. The beautiful Siliserh Lake runs along the edge of the reserve, with a quaint hunting lodge overlooking it.

At last count in 1985, 35 tigers were reported. Other carnivores of the area are the panther, jungle cat, jackal and hyena. Three caracals were also reported during the last census in 1985. Other animals include the sambar, chital, wild boar, hare, nilgai and different species of porcupines.

The birdlife comprises the pea fowl, grey partridge, quail, sand grouse, tree pie, white breasted kingfisher, golden - backed woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and great Indian homed owl.

When to visit : October to June is the best time to visit the park.

Where to stay : Tiger Den (RTDC); Hotel Lake Palace RTDC). Sisilerh; Sariska Palace Hotel (Heritage Hotel); Forest Rest House.

How to get there : You can reach Jaipur by air which is 113 kms. from the sanctuary. Nearest town and rail link is at Alwar, which is 21 kms. from the park.

Contact the Field Director, Sariska Tiger Reserve, District Alwar

Wildlife in Gujarat

Gir National Park And Sanctuary

It is the only remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion, which has been confined to this forest since 1884 (around 300 lions were reported in 1995). The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin. Nevertheless, a large male lion of the Gir is quite a sight to behold.

The chinkara, wild boar, striped hyena, jackal, leopard, fox, musk shrew, India Pangolin, deer, common langur, porcupine, hare, black buck and crocodiles are the other animals that can be found in this sanctuary. There are over 200 bird species including the peafowl, grey partridge, Bonelli's eagle, crested serpent eagle, jungle bush quail, painted sandgrouse, common green pigeon and several species of doves.

When to visit : The parm remains closed during monsoons, from mid-June to mid-October. The ideal time to visit is between December and March.

Where to stay : Accommodation facilities in the park include Forest Bungalow of the Forest Department and The Gir Lodge of the Taj Group of Hotels.

How to get there :

Air : The nearest airports are Keshod (89 kms.) and Rajkot (160 kms.)

Rail : Sasan is the nearest railhead on the meter gauge line. However, the convenient railhead is Junagadh.

Road : The park is connected by road with Ahmedabad 408 kms., Junagadh 54 kms., Rajkot 160 kms., Somnath 48 kms. and Veraval 45 kms. State transport buses between Junagadh and Veraval operate via Sansangir.

Contact : The Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division, Sasangir, District Junagadh, Gujarat.

Three unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary - home to several water - birds, the Little Rann of Kutch - home of the Indian wild ass, and the fascinating Flamingo Island, render the state of Gujarat a virtual haven for wildlife buffs.

Wild Ass Sanctuary

65 kms. from Surendranasar, Little Rann of Kutch.

Guiarat is as famous for its large wild ass herds as it is for its lions. To protect these rare animals, a sanctuary covering an area of over 4,953 sq. kms. was created to offer protection to more than 2,100 wild asses inhabiting this area. In the Little Rann of Kutch, the asses are attracted by the flat green grass covered expanse known as bets (islands where coarse grasses spring up during the monsoon).

Marine National Park

30 kms. from Jamnagar. Gujarat. Area : 458 sq. kms.

Main Attractions: Coral Reef Formations.

Unique Feature: India's First Marine National Park.

Main Park Population - Turtles, shrimp, sponge, eels. and sea urchin

lurk among the corals and huge schools of fish create a brilliance of colours that are unknown, unseen and unimaginable. Here you can see dolphins and octopusses.

Dugong a marine mammal, which resembles a seal and the rare Boralia species are found in these protected areas. The park has dense mangrove growth, which provides scores of birds with nesting and roosting sites.

Marine Life

Sea turtles nest on the beaches. The coral reefs are a blaze of colour, home to a variety of rare life forms like the octopus, sea horses and 200 species of molluscs. Also colourful fish like the puffer, butterfly and parrot; and echinoderms like the star fish, brittle star, sand dollar, sea urchin and sea cucumber. More than 40 species of sponges in vivid shades of green, red, pink and other colours abound.

Sanay Gandhi National Park

Established : 1974.

Only 3 kms. north of central Mumbai.

Size : Now covering 94 sq. kms.

Best time to visit : October to May.

Animals and birds of the park : The area includes a Safari Park and a Deer Park. The park has two small lakes and the Kanheri caves. A large variety of birds can also be seen here.

Wildlife in Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park

There are more than 22 species of mammals and 200 species of birds. Some of the inhabitants of this park are the rhesus macaque, the black- faced langur, jungle cats, chinkara, black buck and the chital. The park attracts many migratory birds in the winter months that include the steppe eagle and a variety of waterbirds. Reptilian fauna includes cobra, krait, python, turtle and a variety of lizards.

When to visit : The ideal time to visit Bandhavgarh is the November to June period. The Park is closed during monsoons from July to October.

Where to stay : White Tiger Forest Lodge (MPSTDC), Forest Rest House, Bandhavgarh Wildlife Camp and Safari, Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge, Tiger Trails, The Royal Retreat and the PWD Rest House are the available means of accommodation.

How to get there :

By Air : The most comfortablc route to Banilhavgarh is by air to Khajuraho (210 kms.), from where it is a 5 hour drive.

By Rail : The nearest railheads are Jabalpur (170 kms.), Katni (102 kms.), and Satna (112 kms.) on the Central Railway and Umaria (30 kms.) on the South Eastern Railway.

By Road : State/private transport buses ply between Katni and Umaria, and from Satna and Rewa to Tala (Bandhavgarh).

Contact : Director, Bandhavgarh National Park, P.O. Umari, Dist. Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh – 484661.

Kanha National Park

Kanha boasts of about 22 species of mammals. Some of the inhabitants of this park are the gaur, the sambar and the chausingha. Other frequent visitors include the Nilgai antelope, the sloth bear, the dhole or Indian wild dog and an occasional panther. Some 200 species of birds inhabit the park that include the cattle egret, black ibis, hawk eagle and the red-wattled lapwing.

The barasingha is undoubtedly the jewel of Kanha. But for all the astonishing diversity in its wildlife population, Kanha is best known as the habitat of the tiger.

When to visit : The park is closed from July 1 to October 31, because of the heavy monsoon. The ideal time to visit Kanha would be the period between February and June. A stay of at least 3 nights is recommended in order to get a really good sighting of Kanha's more elusive animals.

Where to stay : Royal Tiger Resort, Wild Chalet Resort, Kanha Safari Lodge, Baghira Log Huts, (MPSTDC), Tourist Hostel (MPSTDC) and Forest Rest Houses are the available means of accommodation.

How to get there :

Khatia (3 Kms. from Kisli) and Mukki are the two main entry points to the Park. The nearest town is Mandla (65 kms.).

By Air : Nearest airports are located at Jabalpur (170 kms.). Raipur (219 kms.) and Nagapur (270 kms.).

By Rail : The closest railheads are at Jabalpur and Bilaspur.

By Road : A daily bus service is available for Kisli and Mukki from Jabalpur, and back. It is advisable to reach Kisli before sunset, as vehicles are not allowed in the park after dark.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Kanha Tiger Reserve, P.O. Mandla, Madhya Pradesh.

Wildlife in Bihar

Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary

On the periphery of Rajgir is located Rajgir Sanctuary covering an area of 35.84 sq. kms., home of the barking deer, langur, giant squirrel, leopard and nilgai (blue bull). A visit to this sanctuary also gives a peep into the glory of historic Rajgir, the seat of Indian empire in 6th century B.C., closely associated with the life and teachings of Buddha and Mahavir Teerthankar. It is also an ideal health resort with a number of hot springs.

When to visit : October to June.

Where to stay : A large number of economy Hotels, rest houses and tourist bungalows.

How to get there : Patna the nearest airport is 102 kms. Rajgir is linked with the mainline of the Eastern railway from Bakhtiapur.

Wildlife in Jharkhand

Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary

Home to many wild animals like the wild boar, sambar, nilgai, chital sloth bear, tiger and panther, this sanctuary lies in a low hilly terrain at an average altitude of 1800 ft. (615 metres).

When to visit : October to March

Where to stay : Tourist Lodge Hazaribagh Circuit House, Upkaar Hotel, Prince Hotel and Pagoda Hotel.

How to get there :

By Air : The nearest airport Ranchi) (91 kms.) is connected with Kolkata, Patna, Lucknow and Delhi.

By Rail : Koderma, 59 kms. away, is the nearest railway station.

By Road : Hazaribagh is well connected by road to Ranchi (91 kms.), Dhanbad (128 Kms). Regular bus service is also available.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer, West Division, Hazaribagh,

TeleFax (06546) 22339.

Palamau Tiger Reserve

The Palamau Tiger Reserve is spread over an area of 1026 sq. kms. Though the Koel river and its tributaries run through the reserve, the animals mostly depend on man-made water holes for their needs and as a result, they can be easily viewed. The leopard, tiger, elephant, Indian wolf, gaur, sambar, sloth bear and nilgai are some of the inhabitants of the reserve.

When to visit : October to March

Where to stay : The Tourist Lodge and Forest Rest Houses are available for accommodation. For reservations field director may be contacted.

How to get there :

The nearest railhead is Daltonganj (25 kms.) and the nearest airport is at Ranchi (180 kms.)

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Palamau Tiger Reserve, Daltonganj, Jharkhand – 822101. TeleFax (06562) 22650.

Topchanchi Wildlife Sanctuary

A small sanctuary, spread over an area of 8.75 sq. kms., abounds with panther, wild boar, langur and barking deer.

When to stay : October to June.

Where to stay : Comfortable, well-furnished Inspection Bungalow of the Jharia Water Board.

How to get there :

Dhanbad, the coal city of India, is the nearest railhead.

Wildlife in West Bengal

Sunderbans National Park and Tiger Reserve

Located in the Ganga delta in West Bengal, spanning the Hooghly in the west and Teulia river in the east, Sunderbans was declared a National Park in 1984. The park covers a vast stretch of mangrove swamp, lush forested islands and small rivers near the Bay of Bengal. Most of the region comprises estuarine mangrove forests and swamps, which support an ecosystem specially adapted to great salinity.

Sunderbans is home to the magnificent Royal Bengal tiger, the park holding more tigers than any other tiger reserve. More than 400 tigers were recorded during the mid-1980s. Project Tiger has also launched a programme to protect the Olive Ridley sea turtles. Crocodiles and the Gangetic dolphin are to be found aplenty in the Raimgangal river. The Sajnekhali sanctuary, famous for its rich avian population, is regarded as a part of the Sunderbans National Park.

To visit Project Tiger area including Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary permission is to be obtained from Tourism Centre, Government of West Bengal, 3/2, B.B.D Bag (East), Kolkata-700 001. TelePhone (033) 2488271.

The other related places of interest are Bhagatpur Crocodile Project (2.5 hours from Namkhana), Lothian Island, Holiday Island (3 hours from Sajnekhali), Kalas, Sagar Island (2.5 hours from Namkhana) and Jamudwip (5.5 hours from Namkhana).

When to visit : September to May

Where to stay : Forest lodge and forest rest-houses are available for accommodation at Sajnekhali.

How to get there :

By Air : Dum Dum (166 kms.), is the nearest airport at Kolkata.

By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Canning, 48 kms. away.

The nearest town is Gosaba, 50 kms. away.

Contact : Field Director, Sunderbans Tiger Reserve, P.0 Canning, District 24 Parganas (South), West Bengal.

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary situated in Jalpaiguri district was constituted in 1941 for the protection of wildlife, particularly single-horned Rhinos. River Torsha runs through the forest and is instrumental for its tall grass. The sanctuary is also home to the Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephants, deer, swamp deer, hog deer, wild pigs, bison and a number of birds etc.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Madarihat Tourist Lodge (0356) 362230, Hollong Forest Lodge, Bardabari Tourist Lodge, Youth Hostel.

How to get there :

By Air : Bagdogra (100 kms.) is connected with Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati and other places in the north-east.

By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Madarihat (7 kms.) and other nearby railheads are Birpara (20 kms.) and Hasimara (20 kms.). Jaldapara is well connected by road with Darjeeling an Siliguri. State buses are also available.

Contact : Divisional Forest Utilisation Officer, 8 Lyons Range, Kolkata 700 001, TelePhone (033) 282 2774.

Wildlife In Assam

Manas Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve

Formerly known. as North Kamrup, Manas, in Assam, was declared a sanctuary in 1928. In 1985 it was accorded the status of World Heritage Site. The park straddles two rivers, the Manas and its tributary the Hakua, along the Assam-Bhutan border. The protected area extends into the Bhutan foothills.

Manas houses 19 of India's most endangered animal populations, home to the rare golden langur and a sizeable tiger population. Its wetlands are essential for the survival of the fast-vanishing hispid hare and pygmy hog. The fauna to be found here includes the rhino, wild buffalos, elephants, gaur, swamp deer, capped langur and clouded leopard. The park, the eastern range of the chital and habitat of the sambar deer, also boasts a rich and diverse avian population. The main highlight is the giant hornbill, two sub-species of which, the pied and grey varieties, are to be found here.

When to visit : The best time to visit is November to March.

Where to stay : Tourist lodge and forest bungalows at Mothanguri are the means of accommodation available.

How to get there :

By Air : Guwahati is the nearest airport at 176 kms.

By Rail : The nearest town and rail-head is Barpeta Road, 41 Kms. away.

Within the Park, riding elephants and boats on the rivers are available for transport.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, PO Barpeta Road,

District Barpeta, Assam, 781315

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park lies on the south bank of the Brahmaputra and its boundary for the most part follows the Mora Diphlu river and runs parallel to National Highway No. 37. It covers an area of 688 sq. kms. The park-was first established in 1908, as a reserve forest with only about a dozen rhinos and was declared a National Park in 1974.

Kaziranga is famous for the great One-Horned Rhinos. Tigers, which are natural enemies of rhinos, are also there in sizable numbers in this area. Other attractions of this National Park include the wild buffalo, magnificent swamp deer, hog deer, wild boar, hoolok gibbon, capped langur and ratel (badger).

A wide variety of snakes including the rock python and the monitor lizard are also found here. Amongst the birds, the crested serpent eagle is common while Palla's fishing eagle and grey headed fishing eagle are frequently seen. Others include the great adjutant stork, crane, Bengal floricab, bar-headed goose, whistling teal and pelican.

Mihimukh is the starting area for the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. Jeep safaris and early morning elephant rides can be arranged for at the Tourist Centre here.

When to visit : November to March.

Where to stay : Forest rest houses and bungalows are available in the park area. Kaziranga. Forest Lodge is also available with air-conditioned rooms, bar, restaurant and other facilities.

How to get there : By air and rail at Jorhat (94 kms.); and Guwahati (220 kms.) from the park. Nearest town is Bokaghat, 22 Kms. from the park.

Contact : Director, Kaziranga National Park, P.O. Bokaghat, District Jorhat, Assam.

Wildlife in Arunachal Pradesh

Namdhapa National Park (Project Tiger)

The Namdhapa National Park is famous for the extremely elusive snow leopard and the clouded leopard. Three major rivers drain this area and flow into the Noa Dihing, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. Some of the inhabitants of the park include the gaur or mithun, elephant, Himalayan black bear, takin, the wild goat peculiar to the Patkoi range, musk deer, slow loris, binturong and the red panda. Several primate species like the Assamese macaque, pigtailed macaque, stump-tailed macaque and the hoolock gibbon can be found in the area. The inaccessibility of a major portion of the park has helped in preserving the pristine quality of the region. The park is also a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger.

When to visit : October to March.

Where to stay : The Government Tourist Lodge. Miao and Rest House at Namchik are the available means of accommodation.

How to get there :

The nearest rail-head is Ledo (56 kms.) and the nearest airport is Dibrugarh (163 kms.).

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, P.O. Miao, Dist. Tirap, Arunachal Pradesh.

Wildlife in Orissa

Tikarpara Gharial Sanctuary

Tikarpara, a gharial sanctuary-120 kms. from Dhenkanal (Orissa) is very rich in flora and fauna, and is famous for its gharial breeding project. An added attraction is a trek in the 25 kms. long gorge, with beautiful forests on either side.

Where to stay : Hotel Shanti, Bus stand, Anugul; Hotel Prasanti, Turang, Anugul- 759123; Hotel Surya Tel : 2309/2248; Hotel Shakuntala Tel : 2337; Shrikrishna Lodging Te; 2476.

How to get there :

Air : Nearest Airport is Bhubaneswar (220 kms.)

Rail : Dhenkanal (120 kms.) is the Rail head on the Cuttak-Sambalpur branch line of the S.E. Railway.

Road : Dhenkanal has direct road connctions to major towns of the State, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Sambalpur, Raipur (MP) etc and is located on the National Highway No.42.

Contact : Tourist Office, Dhenkanal, Kunjakanta, P.O. Distt. Dhenkanal-759001 Tel : 06762-4670; Gram: ORISSATOUR.

Entry to the sanctuary is restricted and prior permission needs to be obtained.

Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is 48 kms. east of Sambalpur on National Highway No.6.

Among various fauna of tropical forests, the sanctuary preserves wild elephants, leopards, gaur, sambhar, deer, wild boar, bisons, black panthers and many more species of animals and birds. There are watch-towers for visitors near the saline tank or the waterholes for viewing the animals. Photography is strictly prohibited and prior permits need to be obtained to enter the sanctuary.

When to visit : The best time to visit is November to June.

Where to stay : Forest Rest House (Badrama) Panthanivas (OTDC).

Reservation Authority : D.F.O. Bamra, Distt. Sambalpur.

How to get there :

Air : Nearest Airport is at Bhubaneswar, 321 kms. which is connected with Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Vizag.

Rail : Sambalpur has two railheads on the S.E. Railway having direct train service with Chennai, Jharsuguda (in between Kolkata and Mumbai) via Nagpur, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Tatanagar.

Road : Connected with good all-weather motorable roads, regular bus services are also available.

Bhitarkanika Sanctuary

Bhitarkanika is an adventurer’s paradise and a breeding ground for Olive Ridley turtles. The second largest mangrove forest of the country, it was declared a sanctuary in 1975 in order to protect the estuarine crocodile and the turtles in their rare mangrove habitat. Other residents of the sanctuary include water monitor lizards and king cobras. Entry to the sanctuary is restricted and prior permission needs to be obtained.

Where to stay : Forest Rest House (Dangmal), Forest Rest House (Ekakula), Forest Rest House (Gupti), Forest Rest House (Kujanga).

How to get there :

Air : Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, which is directly connected to Kolkata. Delhi, Hyderabad. Chennai, Mumbai, Nagpur and Vishakhapatnam by Indian Airlines.

Rail : The nearest railhead Bhadrak (60 kms. from Chandbali), on the South-Eastern Railway is connected to Kolkala, Kharagpur, Tatanagar, Gaya, Kanpur, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Puri, Vishakhapatnam, Vijayavwada, Nellore. Gudur, Tirupali, Chennai, Delhi.

By Road : Bus service is available and roads are well developed.

Inland Water Transport: One can also reach the sanctuary via motor launch drive.

Contact : Tourist Officer, Govt. of Orissa Tourist Office, Jaydev Marg, Bhubaneswar - 751002, Tel : 0674-431299. India Tourism, Bhubaneswar, B-21, B.J.B. Nagar, Bhubaneswar - 751014, Tel/Fax (0674) 432203, Tel : 1913. E.mail:itobbs@ori.nic.in

Similipal Tiger Reserve (Project Tiger)

The Similipal National Park, one of the earliest to come under Project Tiger, is located in the forest belt of north Orissa. It was the erstwhile hunting preserve of the Maharajas of Mayurbhanj. Similipal, covering an area of 2,750 sq. kms. was declared in 1973 as one of the nine Project Tiger reserves in the country. It is a vast tract of stately Sal forests, beautiful waterfalls, grassy valley and twelve rivers run across its expanse. It is home to panthers, tigers, gaur, bison, antelopes, sambar, mouse deer - the tiniest of the deer family, mugger or crocodiles and more than 223 species of birds. Permits need to be obtained prior to visit.

When to visit : The best time to visit is October to early June.

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at Forest Rest House.

How to get there :

Air : Nearest airports are 1) Bhubaneswar (270 kms. from Jashipur & 271 kms. from Baripada) and 2) Kolkata (291 kms. from Jashipur & 253 kms. from Baripada).

Rail : Balasore, on the South Eastern Railway. 60 kms. from Baripada and 76 kms. from Lulung.

Contact : Wildlife Warden-Cum Assistant Conservator of Forest Similipal National Park & Tiger Reserve, Khairi Jashipur - 757 091, Mayurbhanj, Tel : (06797) 32474 (For tourists entering the park from Jashipur side). Range Officer, Pithabata at Pithabata Check Gate (For tourists entering the park from Baripatia side) Time: For Day Tourists-0600 to 1200 hours. For Reservation Holders – 0600 to 1400 hours.

Nandankanan Biological Park

The picturesque Nandankanan, or the Garden of the Gods, is a beautiful biological park, 20 kms. from Bhubaneswar, established in 1960. It sprawls across the Chandaka forest, where the flora and fauna flourish in their natural habitat. The park houses the very first captive gharial breeding centre of the country. The zoo at Nandakanan is world-renowned for its white tigers. In 1980, for the very first time, three white tiger cubs were born from normal coloured parents.

With facilities for boating, white tiger and lion safaris, a nocturnal animal house, reptile park, aerial rope-way and cable car, it is the place for a person with a penchant for the great outdoors.

Chandka Elephant Reserve

Located in Bhubaneswar, this reserve is the only one of its kind in India. Besides elephants, sambar, bears, wild dogs, pea fowls and pythons can be spotted.

Chilika Lake

Chilika Lake, spreading over an area of 1100 sq. kms. is the largest brackish water lake in the country and attracts a large number of migratory birds besides resident ones. Barkul and Rambha are two places on the lake, which serve as the base.

The Dolphins have been reported mostly near Satapada-Magarmukha area and occasionally between Kalijai and Balugaon. Other mammals reported from small pockets in the surrounding hills/forests/scattered islands & amidst the vegetation of sandy ridge facing Chilika and the sea include black bucks, spotted deer, fox, jackal, hyena, jungle cat, hare, rat, pachyura (an insectivora), common bat, otter, common mongoose, monkey, squirrel, porcupine etc.

When to visit : the best time to visit is October to early June.

Where to stay : For reservation of Panthaniwases at Barkul and Rabbha one can write directly to The Divisional Manager (A&C), OTDC (Head Office), Panthaniwas Old Block, Lewis Road, Bhubaneswar-751014, Tel : (0674) 432699, Fax : (0674) 431053. E.mail:otdc@sancharnet.in

How to get there :

Air : The nearest airport, Bhubaneswar, is 105 kms. from Bakul & 135 kms. from Rambha. The airport is directly connected with Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi & Mumbai by Indian Airlines.

Rail : Nearest railheads are Balagaon, Chilika, Khallikote and Rambha on S.E. Railways, which are connected to Kolkata, Puri, Chennai, Hyderabad and Mumbai via Secunderabad. The airport is directly connected with Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai by Indian Airlines.

Contact : Government of Orissa Tourist Counter, Tourist Bungalow, Rambha, Dist: Ganjam-761028, TelePhone:06180-57346. Tourist Complex at Barkul, P.O. Balugaon, Pin.752030, Tel : (06756) 20855.

Wildlife in Andhra Pradesh

Nehru Zoological Park

The Nehru Zoological Park near the Mir Alam Tank in Hyderabad is a natural habitat supporting a teeming wildlife population. Situated about 8 kms. to the south of Charminar, over 250 species of animals and birds are housed in a lush green park sprawling over 300 acres. It has to its credit the first lion safari park of South Asia. The Pakkal, Tadvai and Ethurnagaram sanctuaries abound in tiger, panther, wild boar, jackal, muntjack, fox, gaur, wild dog and the sloth bear. The Kolleru Lake situated 95 kms. from Amravati, is a heaven for migratory birds. A little beyond 8 kms. lies Aredu, India's largest pelicanry, a favourite haunt of migratory birds.

Kwala Sanctuary

Covering an area of 893 sq. kms. in the Adilabad district, the sanctuary hosts species like tiger, panther, gaur, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, barking deer, chowsingha, mouse deer, sloth bear and a variety of birds. Also found here are dry deciduous teak forests with bamboo, Terminalia, Pterocarpus etc.

When to visit : November to May.

Where to stay : Forest rest house at Jannaram.

How to get there :

The sanctuary is 50 kms. from Mancherial railway station; 260 kms. from Hyderabad by road. The nearest airport is Hyderabad.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Jannaram

Tel : 08739-36224

Pranahita Sanctuary

The sanctuary covering an area of 136 sq. kms. has dry deciduous teak forests along river Pranahita, a tributary of river Godavari. The terrain is undulating and supports tiger, panther, sloth bear, cheetal, black buck, nilgai and a variety of birds including brahminy ducks, teals, storks and herons.

When to visit : November to April

Where to stay : Forest Rest House at Mancherial and Chinnur.

How to get there :

70 kms. from Mancherial railway station; 300 kms. from Hyderabad by road. The nearest airport is Hyderabad.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM) Jannaram

Tel : 08739 36224.

Etunagaram Sanctuary

The sanctuary covering an area of 806 sq. kms. in the Warangal district is a dry deciduous teak forest with bamboo, Pterocarpus, Anogeissus, Buchanania etc. Rolling country with low hills with tiger, panther, gaur, sambar, cheetal, nilgai, black buck, chowsingha, barking deer, wild boar, wolf, jackal, fox, jungle cat and a variety of birds.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Forest cottages and a Rest house at Tadvai, ITDA Guest Houses at Eturanagaram.

How to get there :

90 kms. from Warangal/Kazipet railway station;

250 kms. from Hyderabad by road. The nearest airport is Hyderabad.

Pakhal Sanctuary

The dry deciduous teak forest with bamboo, Madhuca, Terminalia, Pterocarpus etc. covering an area of 879 sq. kms. in the Warangal district, is home to animals such as the tiger, panther, gaur, sambar, nilgai, cheetal, wild boar, sloth bear, wild dog, hyena, jackal, fox and migratory birds like ducks, teals, ibises, storks and cormorants.

When to visit : November to June

Where to stay : Forest & Tourist rest house at Pakhal.

How to get there :

60 kms. from Warangal/Kazipet railway station:

230 kms. from Hyderabad by road. The nearest airport is Hyderabad.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Subedari, Warangal. Tel : 08712-31546.

Kinnerasani Sanctuary

Located in the Khammam district in an area of 656 sq. kms., this sanctuary has dry deciduous teak forests with bamboo, Terminalias, Anogeissus etc. Some major animal species found are tiger, panther, gaur, cheetal, black buck, chinkara, chowsingha, sambar, wild boar, wild dog, hyena, jackal, sloth bear and a variety of ground nesting and aquatic birds. The Kinnerasani Lake and water pools harbour marsh crocodile.

When to visit : October to June.

Where to stay : Forest rest houses at Palavoncha and Kothagudem.

How to get there : 25 kms. from Bhadrachalam Road railway station.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Palavomcha. Tel : 08744-59125.

Papikonda Sanctuary

Situated between east Godavari, west Godavari and Khammam districts in an area of 591 sq. kms., this sanctuary harbours tiger, panther, gaur, cheetal, chowsingha, sambar, black buck, mouse deer, barking deer, sloth bear, wild dog, hyena, jackal, wild boar, marsh crocodile and a variety of birds - both resident and migratory.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Forest houses at Rajamundry, Maredumilli and Kannapuram.

How to get there : 50 kms. from Rajahmundry railway station.

Contact : Dy. Conservator of Forests (WLM), Rajahmundry. Tel : 0883-478643

Coringa Sanctuary

This sanctuary, spread over 236 sq. kms. is a part of the estuary of river Godavari and supports a rich growth of mangrove vegetation with plants like Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, Aegiceros etc. Animals found are fishing cat, otter, jackal, sea turtle and estuarine crocodile which are found in the creeks. Among the birds, most common are seagulls, storks, herons, snipes, ducks and flamingos.

When to visit : October to May

Where to stay : Forest rest house at Coringa and Rajamundry.

How to get there :

20 kms. from Kakinada railway station and 70 kms. from

Rajahmundry railway station.

Contact : Dy. Conservator of Forests (WLM),

Rajahumundry. Tel : 0883-478643.

Kolleru Sanctuary

It is a wetland in the West Godavari District, supporting a large variety of water birds, garganys, teals, pochards, spot bills, brahminy ducks, open bill storks, herons, occasionally flamingos and grey pelicans.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Forest rest houses at Vijayawada and Eluru.

How to get there :

60 kms. by road from Vijayawada railway station.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM) Elura.

Tel : 08812-32356 Mobile: 98483-04004.

Krishna Sanctuary

Spread over 195 sq. kms., these mangrove forests on the estuary of river Krishna harbour fishing cat, otter, jackal, estuarine crocodile and a variety of seasonal birds.

How to get there :

80 kms. by road from Vijayawada railway station.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Eluru.

Tel : 08812-32356 Mobile: 98483-04004.

Pocnaram Sanctuary

Located between Medak and Nizamabad districts in an area of 130 sq. kms., these mixed dry deciduous forest harbour panther, sloth bear, wild boar, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, chowsingha, chinkara, hyena, jackal, python, ducks, teals, storks, patridges and quails.

When to visit : October to May

Where to stay : Inspection bungalow at Pocharam and Medak.

How to get there :

120 kms. by road from Hyderabad. Nearest airport Hyderabad.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Medak, Tel : 08452-22591.

Manjira Sanctuary

This is a riverine habitat in the Medak district supporting marsh crocodiles and a variety of water birds.

When to visit : October to June.

Where to stay : Inspection Bunglow at Sangareddy and Sadasivapet.

How to get there :

50 kms. By road from Hyderabad.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Medak. Tel : 08452-22591.

Nagarjunasagar - Srisailam Sanctuary (Project Tiger)

Situated in the Guntur, Prakasam, Kurnool, Mahboobnagar and Nalgonda districts in an area of 3568 sq. kms., these dry deciduous mixed forests along the river Krishna harbour tiger, panther, sloth bear, wild dog, jackal, wolf, fox, ratel, Indian giant squirrel, tree shrew, cheetal, mouse deer, black buck, sambar, chowsingha, nilgai and wild boar.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Rest house and cottages at Srisailam and Mannanur.

How to get there : 130 kms. by road from Hyderabad.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Srisailam. Tel : 085195-86089 Fax : 86071 Mobile: 98480-22031 Email: cfpt_sslm@yahoo.com

Rollapadu Sanctuary

These open grasslands In the Kurnool district are home of the endangered great Indian bustard. Other animals found are black buck, Bonnet monkey, wolf, jackal, Russel's viper and cobra.

When to visit : October to February.

Where to stay : Forest rest house at Kurnool.

Inspection bungalow at Nandikotkur.

How to get there : 60 kms- by road from Kurnool railway station.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Srisailam. Tel : 085195-86089

Fax: 86071 Mobile: 98480-22031 Email: cfpt_sslm@yahoo.com.

Gundla Brahmeswaram Saiictuaiy

Situated in the Kurnool & Prakasam districts, covering an area of 1194 sq. kms., these mixed deciduous forests harbour animals like tiger, panther, sloth bear, wild dog, hyena, jungle cat, langur, bonnet monkey, pangolin, sambar, nilgai, chowsingha, chinkara, mouse deer, monitor lizard, python and marsh crocodile.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Inspection Bunglow at Nandyal and Forest rest house at Diguvametta.

How to get there :

100 kms. from Kurnuol railway station or 30 kms. from Nandyal railway station.

Sri Lankamalleswara Sanctuary

These dry, deciduous mixed thorn forests in the Cuddapah have panther, sloth bear, chital, sambar, chowsingha, chinkara, nilgai, wild boar and fox. This sanctuary is the habitat for the rare and endangered bird called double banded or the Jerdon's courser.

When to visit : October to March.

Where to stay : Forest rest houses at Siddavatam and Cuddapah.

How to get there : 15 kms. by road from Cuddapah railway station.

Contact : Dy. Conservator of Forests, Sri Venkateswara National Park, Tirupati or Divisional Forest Officer, Cuddapah. Tel : 08562-44480.

Pulicat Sanctuaiy

This sanctuary in Nellore attracts large congregations of greater and lesser flamingos, grey pelican, painted stork, grey heron, ducks, teals, terns, herons, gulls and a number of waders, patridges and quails.

When to visit : October to March.

Where to stay : Inspection bungalows at Sullurpet & Tada.

How to get there :

10 kms. by road from Sullurpet railway station. 50 kms. by road from Chennai on Chennai - Kolkata road (NH.5). The nearest airport is Chennai.

Contact; Divisional Forest Officer (WLM), Sullurupet. Tel : 08623-42158.

Kaundinya Sanctuary (Project Elephant)

Animals found in this sanctuary in the Chittoor district are Indian elephant, sloth bear, panther, chital, chowsingha, sambar, porcupine, wild boar, jungle cat, jackal, jungle fowl and slender loris.

When to visit : October to April

Where to stay : Forest guesthouse at Palamaneru.

How to get there :

50 kms. By road from Chittoor; 120 kms. from

Bangalore. The nearest airport is Bangalore.

Contact : Divisional Forest Officer, Chittoor (West) D.F.O. Chittoor (East)

Tel : 08572-32296.

Sri Venkateswara Sanctuary & National Park

Located in the Chittoor and Cuddapah districts this reserve has panther, sloth bear, sambar, chital, mouse deer, barking deer, chowsingha, wild boar, wild dog, hyena, jackal, fox, civet cat, jungle cat, rare and endangered golden gecko, slender loris, Indian giant squirrel, tree shrew and flying lizard.

When to visit : Round the year.

Where to stay : Forest rest houses at Tirupati, Rajampet, Talakona; Bakarapet. APTDC Guest House at Talakona.

How to get there :

10 kms. from Tirupati by road. The nearest airport is Tirupati.

Contact : Conservator of Forests, Sri Venkateswara

National Park, Tirupati. Tel : 08574-24980.

Wildlife in Karnataka

Bandipur National Park (Project Tiger)

The 874.20 sq. kms. Bandipur National Park, situated in the Mysore district which is also a Tiger Reserve with its open grassy woodland, lies to the south of the Kabini River while Nagarhole, 643.39 sq. km. in area, to the north of the river, has taller and denser forests. Bandipur, lying in the shadow of the Western Ghats, is one of the finest habitats of the Asian elephant. Drained by the Moyar River, its open forest makes it easy for visitors to see the elephant and gaur in natural surroundings.

When to visit : March to August.

Where to stay : Hotel Mayura Prakruti, (KSTDC), Tel. 0821-633001, M.C.Resorts, Tel. 0821-633044, Bush Betta, Tel. 080-2244795, Tusker Trails Tel. 0821- 636055. Also, the Forest Department of Govt. of Karnataka provides accommodation in the sanctuary.

How to get there :

Air : The nearest airport is Bangalore (220 kms.)

Rail : The nearest railhead is Mysore (80 kms.).

Road : It is 220 kms. from Bangalore and 80 kms. from Mysore.

Contact : Field Director, Project Tiger, Mysore

Tel : 0821-480901.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in the Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts, is one of the most fascinating sanctuaries. The jungles shelter some exquisite flora and fauna. The great Indian gaur, barking deer, flying fox, mongoose, elephant, panther, babbler, barbet all have their home in the forests of the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

When to visit : November to March.

Where to stay : Forest Department of Govt. of Karnataka provides guest houses at the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to get there :

Air : Mangalore is the nearest airport.150 kms.

Rail :The nearest railheads are Kadur, 50 kms,. and Mangalore, 150 kms.

Road : The road distance of the major cities: Bangalore-257 kms., Chikmagalur – 60 kms., and Hassan – 120 kms.

Contact : Reservation: Deputy Conservator of Forest,

Govt. of Karnataka, Wildlife Office, Chikmaglur,

Tel : 08262-34904

Bheemeshwari Wildlife Sanctuary

It is a perfect picnic spot, where nature has created a natural habitat for the Mahseer fish and variety of exciting animals. The lush forest sheltered by steep valley and scattered by little streams, invite large groups of animals and birds including elephants, deer, wild boars, monkeys, Jackals, crocodiles, otter and leopards.

There are plenty of birds too. Heron, ibis, cormorant, kingfishers have all made their home here.

Angling is an exciting option here as there is a fishing camp nearby. The river Cauvery abounds with Mahseer-the finest game fish (weighing 100 lbs.).

When to visit : December to March.

Where to stay : Jungle Lodges & Resorts provides tented accommodation and Log Huts near the Cauvery river, with the fishing facility.

How to get there :

Air : Bangalore is the nearest airport. 120 kms.

Rail : The nearest railhead is Mandya, 60 kms.

Road : The road-distance of the nearby cities:

Bangalore (100 kms.), Kanakapura (56 kms.).

Contact : Reservation: Jungle Lodges & Resorts, Shrungar .Shopping Centre, M.G.Road, Bangalore-560 001. Tel.080-5597021/24/25. Fax : 5586163,

Email: junglelodges@vsnl.com Website: www.junglelodges.com

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

In the Uttara Kannada district lies the largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. Nestling some very rare animals and birds, it is an unspoilt, untouched and unexplored treasure of wildlife spread over 475 sq. kms. Amongst the animals found are sloth bear, bush grail, deer, elephant, sambar, tiger, gaur, panther and partridge. The sanctuary offers wildlife safaris in jeeps nature walks, bird watching, crocodile sighting trips, fishing, boat rides and trekking in the jungles of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

When to visit : October to May.

Where to stay : Jungle Lodges & Resorts, a Govt. of Karnataka undertaking provides tent accommodation and deluxe rooms on the banks of the river Kali in Dandeli on Jungle Plan which includes accommodation, all meals and wildlife rides etc.

How to get there:

Air : The nearest airport is Goa. 130 kms.

Rail : The nearest railhead is Dharwad, 60 kms.

Road : Dandeli to Bangalore is 540 kms.. Dharwad is 60 kms.

Contact; Deputy Conservator of Forests, Govt. of Karnataka,

Wildlife Division, Dandeli - 58125. Tel : 08284-31585

Nagarhole National Park

Once an exclusive hunting preserve of the erstwhile rulers of Mysore, the terrain of this Park is gently undulating with lush green vegetation, swamps and numerous water resources, rendering it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The forest is home to animals like the four-horned antelope, sloth bear, jungle cat, civet, spotted deer, elephant, wild dog, flying fox, tiger, panther, gaur (Indian bison), sambar, wild boar, black-naped hare, bonnet macaque and pangolin. Cobras, crocodiles, kraits, pythons, vipers, and several species of lizards are also found here. Among the 250 bird species found here, the prominent ones are the common babbler, bee - eater, bulbul, dove, crested serpent, hornbill, Malabar pied, alexandrine, peacock, woodpecker, warbler, great Indian reed, eagle, crested hawk, golden-back parakeet and the Southern tree pie.

Where to stay : Kabini. River Lodge. Nagarhole.

Reservation: Jungle Lodges & Resorts, Shrungar Shopping Centre, M. G. Road, Bangalore- 560 001., Tel.080-5597021/24/25. Fax; 5586163,

Email: junglelodges@vsnl-com Website: www.junglelodges.com

How to get there :

Air : Bangalore (220 kms.) is the nearest airport. Rail : Mysore. 80 kms. away is the nearest railhead.

Road : It is 220 kms. from Bangalore and 80 kms. from Mysore.

Contact : Forest Department, Govt. of Karnataka

Hunsur, Tel : 08222-652041

Ranganthittu Bird Sanctuary

The sanctuary situated in the Mysore district abounds in various species of avi fauna. The flying fox, otter, python, tortoise, crocodile, cormorant, darter, egrets, heron, ibis, kingfisher, plover, parakeet, spoonbill, whistling teal and peregrine are some of the main species of birds that inhabit the sanctuary.

When to visit : June to October.

Where to stay : There are river-view, cottages run by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation at Srirangapatna which is 10 kms., away from the Bird Sanctuary.

How to get there :

Air : Bangalore is the nearest airport. 125 kms.

Rail : Mysore is nearest railhead. 18 kms.

Road : Bangalore is 125 kms. Mysore is 18 kms.

Contact : KSTDC No.10/4, Kasturba Road, Bangalore-560 001. Tel : 2212901/2/3.

Fax : 2234963, Email: kstdc@vsnl.in

Wildlife in Tamilnadu

Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuaiy)

An ecological paradise, covering an area of 108 sq. kms., this hill forest boasts of thick growth of trees, folds of terrain with evergreen sholas. About 800 species out of 2000 South Indian flora are distributed here.

This sanctuary is home to animals like lion - tailed macaque, bonnet macaque, common langur, Nilgiris langur, Malabar giant squirrel and grizzled giant squirrel. Other animals are: tiger, panther, elephant, gaur, pangolin, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, dhole, sloth bear, porcupine, Nilgiri tahr, civet cat and Toddy cat. It also includes avi-fauna like the racket- tailed drongo, black headed oriole, paradise flycatcher, whistling thrush, emerald dove, green pigeon, Tickell's flower pecker, rutus woodpecker, rose-winged parakeet, black eagle, great Indian Malabar pied hornbill, fairy bluebird and green-billed malkhoha etc.

When to visit : Throughout the year except February to April.

Timings 0600-0800 Hrs and 1700-1900 Hrs.

Where to stay : Forest Guest Houses at Topslip, Varagalayar, Amaravathi, Sethumadai PWD Guest House. Amaravathi EB Guest House at Attakatti.

How to get there : The nearest railhead and nearest town is at Pollachi (35 kms.). Nearest airport is Coimbatore (75 kms).

Contact : Wildlife Warden, 178 Meenakarai Salai, Pallachi - 642 001,

Tel : 04259-225356.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary And National Park

About 65 kms. away from Ooty (Now known as Udhagamandalam). This sanctuary is spread over 521 sq. kms.

The vegetation is varied and the fauna includes elephants, gaur, bonnet macaque, common langur, tigers and leopards, chital, dhole, panther, sloth bear, python, barking deer, four-horned antelope, otter, crocodiles (mugger), giant flying squirrel, sambar, hyena, wild dog, wild boar, mouse beer, spotted deer, jackal, hare, porcupine and mongoose.

The birds listed in the sanctuary are peacock, grey jungle fowl, red spur fowl, grey partridge quail, goggle-eyed plover, Malabar whistling thrush, large racket tailed drongo, shama, magpie-robin, spotted babbler, small green barbet, green pigeons, little brown dove, Malabar grey hornbill, bulbuls, mynahs etc. Among birds of prey, eagles, hawks, buzzards, harriers, falcons and king vultures are predominant besides some migratory waterbirds.

When to visit : September to May.

Where to stay : Hotel Tamilnadu (TTDC Ltd.), Forest Guest House,. Abhayaranyam, Kargudi, Masinagudi and Theppakkadu with catering arrangements.

How to get there :

Air : Coimbatore (160 kins.) is the nearest airport.

Rail : Ooty 65 kms.) and Mysore (95 kms.) are the nearest stations.

Road : NH passes through the sanctuary, one has to stop at Theppakkadu. From Ooty (base camp at Parson's Valley), you can trek to this sanctuary and the Mukkurthi National Park.

Contact : The Wildlife Warden Mahalingam Building, Coonoor Road,

Udhagamandalam-643001. Tel : 0423-444098.

Mukkurthi National Park

This Park, a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, situated 40 kms. from Udhagamandalam, contains a viable population of Nilgiri tahr (Hamitragus Hilocrius), sambar, barking deer, Nilgiri marten, otter, jungle cat, jackal etc. Avi fauna consists of hill birds viz. laughing and whistling thrushes, woodcock, wild pigeon and black eagle. Butterflies with Himalayan affinity like the blue admiral, Indian red admiral, Indian cabbage white, hedge blues and rainbow trouts can also be seen.

When to visit : February to May & September to November.

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at Forest Rest House at Avalanche, Pykara and trekking sheds.

How to get there : The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (140 kms.) and the nearest railhead is Udagamandalam (45 kms).

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, Mahalingam Buildings, Coonoor Road, Udhagamandalam - 643 001, Phone No.0423 – 444098.

Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary (Project Tiger)

Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in an area of 225 sq. kms. all in the Tirunelveli District. The flora ranges from forests of tropical wet evergreen to tropical dry deciduous and thorn forests. Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque and common langur, Nilgiri tahr, sambar, sloth bear, gaur, elephant, tiger, flying squirrel, panther, wild dog, pangolin are some of the wild life seen in the sanctuary. Besides, a wide range of birds and reptiles can be seen. This sanctuary is situated in an extensive preserve declared as a "Project Tiger Reserve".

When to visit : September to March

Where to stay : Forest Rest House at Sengaltheri

How to get there :

The nearest airports are Madurai (200 kms.) and Thiruvananthapuram (140 kms.) The nearest railhead is at Cheranmahadevi (20 kms.). The sanctuary is well connected by State buses.

Contact : The Field Director, Project Tiger, NGO 'A' Colony, Tirunelveli - 627 007, Phone - 462 - 552663.

Mundanthurai

There is nothing to differentiate this sanctuary from that of Kalakkadu, except the absence of the elephant and the gaur. Situated in the Tirunelveli district, this 567 sq. kms. sanctuary boasts of dry deciduous to tropical wet evergreen forests and patches of pure reeds. Animal wealth includes tiger, bonnet macaque, langurs, slender loris, sloth bear, sambar, chital and wild dog. Excellent for various species of avi fauna and varieties of reptiles and insects. Trekking with prior permission from the Forest (Wildlife) Department along trekking trails can be undertaken.

When to visit : October to January.

Where to stay : Forest Rest House, at Mundanthurai, PWD Rest House at Ambasamudram and E. B. Rest House at Papanasam Camp.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is Madurai (200 kms.) and the nearest railway station is at Ambasamudram (6 kms.).

Contact : The Field Director Project Tiger NGO 'A'

Colony, Tirunelveli – 627 007, Phone 0462-552663.

Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary

Sprawling on a 17.26 sq. kms. area surrounded by sea and shore, comprising forests of tidal swamps, dry evergreen forests and mangroves, this sanctuary is situated in the Nagapattinam district. It is bestowed with populations of varied wildlife such as chital, wild boar, bonnet macaque, black buck, flamingoes, teals, gulls, terns, plovers, and stilts. Special attractions are close encounters with dolphins and turtles, which often come quite close to the shore.

When to visit : Year round. For migratory water birds: November to February

Where to stay : Accommodation: Forest Rest House at Point Calimere with catering arrangements.

Other facilities: Boats for cruising.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is at Tiruchirappalli (225 kms.) and the nearest railhead is at Thiruthuraipoondi (42 kms.).

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuaiy, 110 Public Offices Road, Nagapattinam. 611 011, Phone: 04365 - 53091.

Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is located in the Virudhunagar District, 45 kms. off Virudhunagar Town. The sanctuary has a composition of dry deciduous forests with patterns of tropical evergreen, semi evergreen forests, moist mixed deciduous forests and grasslands. Grizzled giant squirrels abound here. Other interesting species are flying squirrel, tree shrew, elephant, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri tahr, mouse deer, barking deer and many a species of birds. This sanctuary can be visited all through the year.

Where to stay : Forest Rest House of Mudungiar, Pudupatti, Mudaliaroothu, & PWD Rest House at Srivilliputhur.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is at Madurai (100 Kms.) and the nearest railhead is at Srivilliputhur (15 kms.)

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, Grizzled Wildlife Sanctuary, 118, 118 North Veedi, Srivilliputhur, Phone No.:04568-620565.

Guindy National Park

The smallest National Park of the country situated in the Chennai metropolitan city, arguably is the only National Park set amidst a metropolis in India. Acting as a lung to Chennai, this park boasts of dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests with a composition of animals viz. black buck, chital, jackal, pangolin and a variety of avi fauna. It encompasses a Snake Park and a Children's park as well.

When to visit : This zoological park can be visited throughout the year.

Where to stay : There is a large number of Hotels and inns around the park.

How to get there :

Chennai is very well connected by air, rail and road.

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, DMS Compound, Anna Salai, Chennai - 600 006,

Phone: 044 - 4321471.

Kunthakulam Bird Sanctuary

33 kms. south of Tirunelveli in Nanguneri Taluk, Tamil Nadu.

10,000 birds from various countries migrate here. Kunthakulam bird sanctuary is situated 33 kms. south of Tirunelveli in Nanguneri taluk. Kunthakulam is a small and natural scenic village, which is covered with natural forests and ponds.

When to visit : January to April

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at the Hotels and lodges in Tirunelveli.

How to get there :.

Tirunelveli 33 kms. is the nearest city, which is well connected by rail and road with important places within and beyond the State.

Rail : The nearest convenience railway station is at Tirunelveli, which is an important railway junction on the Southern railway and is connected to all major cities of South India.

Road : From Tirunelveli, there are regular buses to the sanctuary. A good network of roads serve Tirunelveli. There are bus services to Chennai, Madurai, Trichiraplli, Coimbatore and Kanyakumari.

Vallandu Black Buck Sanctuary

A scrub forest area spread over 16.41 sq. kms., this sanctuary is situated in Thuthukudi (Tuticorin) District. Black buck, spotted deer, macaques, jungle cat, mongoose and hares are aplenty. This sanctuary can be visited throughout the year.

When to visit : September to May

Where to stay : Hotels at Tirunelveli.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is at Madurai (165 kms.) and the nearest railhead is Tirunelveli (20 kms.)

Contact : The District Forest Officer, Tirunelveli Division,

Kokirakulam, Tirunelveli – 627 009, Phone No. 0462 – 572712.

Vedanthangal and Karikili Bird Sanctuaries

Vedanthangal, the oldest bird sanctuary in the country, has been in existence presumably for more than 200 years. A grove of Barringtonia and Acacia nilotica trees in a tank form part of the sanctuary. In addition dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests can also be seen. Both these sanctuaries are situated in the Kancheepuram district and sprawling in a 30 hectare and 61 hectare area respectively. Breeding birds like cormorants, egrets, grey heron, open-billed stork, darter, spoonbill, white ibis, night herons, grebes, grey pelican etc visit the sanctuary. The population of migratory birds included Garganey teals, shovellers, pintails, stilts, sandpipers etc. Some of the resident birds listed are coots and moorhen, terns. In all 115 species of birds have been recorded in this sanctuary.

When to visit : November to February.

Where to stay : Forest Rest House at Vedanthangal.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is at Chennai (58 kms.) and the nearest railhead is Chengalpet (30 kms.). Vedanthangal has a City Bus Terminal and is well connected by road also.

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, DMS Compound, Anna Salai, Chennai 600 026,

Phone No: 044-4321471.

Aringar Anna Zoological Park, Chennai

This man-made zoological park is situated on the outskirts of the Chennai Metropolitan area, and was created out of the reserved forests of Vandaloor. The forests are of dry, deciduous and dry evergreen scrub type. It was in the year 1865 that the first zoo in India was established in Chennai. Later in 1979, the zoo shifted to this 510 hectares sprawling complex. This zoological park is said to be one of the biggest in south-east Asia. The wildlife population is exhibited in large open island type enclosures with simulated natural environment. More than 170 species of mammals, aves and reptiles are exhibited. Lion safari vehicles, elephant rides, battery operated vehicles are some of the facilities inside this park.

When to visit : This Zoological park can be visited thoughout the year.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is Chennai (18 kms.) The nearest railway station is Vandaloor

(1 kms.) which also has a city bus terminal.

Contact : The Director, Aringar Anna Zoological Park, Vandaloor,

Chennai. Tel : 044-2378762.

Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

This is a marine biosphere running along the coast of Ramanathapuram and Thuthukudi (Tuticorin) districts. The entire Gulf of Mannar abounds in distinguished marine life, 21 islands and 623 hectares. This National Park is full of coral reefs, dugongs, turtles, dolphins and Balanoglossus. Kurusadai islands off Mandapam boasts of a vast expanse of shallow waters. The presence of coral reefs, marine flora and fauna here are in their virgin form.

Where to stay : Hotels at Mandapam.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is at Madurai (150 kms.) and nearest railheads are Mandapam/Tuticorin.

Contact : The Wildlife Warden, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, 76/1 Madurai Road, Mandapam, Ramanathapuram Dt-623 501. Tel : 04567-30079.

Wildlife in Kerala

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuaiy

About 30 kms. from Thiruvananthapuram city, the sanctuary stretches from Neyyatinkara Taluk to the Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamilnadu, covering an area of 128 sq. kms. This sanctuary is home to a large number of mammals, reptiles and avi fauna. Some of which are elephant, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, Indian porcupine, three-striped squirrel, tiger, Malabar squirrel, lion-tailed macaque, mouse deer, bonnet macaque, Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri langur, cobra, viper, python, rat snake, flying snake, lizard, common myna, kingfisher, white - breasted water hen, little green heron, woodpecker, house crow, koel, Indian cuckoo, grey jungle fowl, hoopoe, jungle myna, Indian hill myna, darter, little cormorant, little egret, brahminy kite etc.

When to visit : November to February

Where to stay : The Youth Hostel and Rest House at Neyyar, Inspection Bungalow of the Forest Department, Dormitory of Irrigation Dept, Agasthya House (KTDC), Rest House at Meenmutty.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram (32 Kms.)

The nearest railhead is Thiruvananthapuram. The Sanctuary is also connected by Motorable roads.

Contact : the Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) ,

Thiruvanthapuram 695014, TeleFax : 0471-322217.

The Wildlife Warden. Thiruvananthapuram Warden, Wildlife Division, Forest Complex, PTP Nagar, Vattiyoorkavu. Thiruvananthapuram -695 013. Tel : 0471-360762.

The Assistant Wildlife Warden, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Neyyar Dam P0, Thiruvananthapuram 695 576 Tel : 0471-272182.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is located 50 kms. north-east of Thiruvananthapuram city in Nedumangad Taluk. It has a variety of wildlife such as elephant, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, tiger, panther, wild dog, Malabar squirrel, lion-tailed macaque, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur etc. It is also home to avi fauna like the darter, little cormorant, pied kingfisher and egret. Reptiles like the king cobra, pythons are found here and also a variety of moths and butterflies.

How to get there :

The sanctuary is accessible from Vithura on the Thiruvananthapuram-Ponmudi Road. The nearest airport and railhead is Thiruvananthapuram (35 kms).

Contact; The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram-695014 TeleFax : 0471- 322217.

The Wildlife Warden, Thiruvananthapuram Warden, Wildlife Division, Forest Complex, PTP Nagar, Vattiyoorkavu, Thiruvananthapuram -695 013 Tel : 0471-360762. The Assistant Wildlife Warden. Peppara Sanctuary, Thiruvananthapuram- 0471-892344.

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuaiy

Located in Pathanapuram Taluk, 66 kms. from Kollam Town on the Kollam-Shencotta Road, the Shenduruny forest was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1984. Some major wildlife species are macaca radiata, bonnet macaque, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, Indian giant squirrel, three striped palm squirrel, lion-tailed macaque, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur, elephant, tiger, leopard etc.

Recent archaeological studies have revealed that Shenduruny was the cradle of one of the oldest river valley civilisations in India - even older than Indus Valley (4400-3700 BC). Remains of Stone Age culture belonging to the Mesolithic period, dating back to 5210-4420 BC, have been excavated from a large cave at the northwestern part of the Shenduruny River. The cave, which is large enough to hold 20 people at a time, has paintings similar to the Mesolithic paintings found in the caves of central India.

How to get there :

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram (72 kms.)

The nearest railway station is Thenmala connected with Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi etc. Motorable roads connect it with Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.

Contact : The Chief Consevator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram – 695014 TeleFax 0471-322217

The Wiidlife Warden, Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, Thenmala Dam P 0. Kollam District Tel : 0475-344600.

Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary (Thekkady)

Located in the Idukki district in Kerala this is one of the most fascinating wildlife sanctuaries and is noted for its geomorphology, diverse wildlife and beautiful landscape. The drive to Thekkady itself is enchanting as the road winds through tranquil countryside, rich plantations and thick jungles. The sanctuary, declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 under the Project Tiger scheme, attracts travellers from all over the world. This is the only sanctuary in India where the wild elephant can be observed and photographed at close quarters. There are two watchtowers in the Periyar forests.

A boat cruise on the Periyar lake is perhaps the best way to watch the wildlife in the reserve, which includes 35 species - the wild elephant, tiger, panther, wild dog, gaur, Nilgiri langur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, sloth bear, Nilgiri tahr, lion tailed macaque, otter, Matabar giant squirrel, civet, leopard etc. Avifauna: 265 species including migrants. The great Indian hornbill, peafowl, brahminy kite and black-winged kite. Aquatic birds like darter, little cormorant, kingfisher, black-necked stork etc. Reptiles like king cobra, viper, krait, a number of non-poisonous snakes, bi-coloured frogs, tortoise and crocodiles. The Periyar Lake and streams have several species of fish including the Mahseer, the famous endangered game fish of India. The otter, the only mammal of the lake, can be spotted from the boat.

When to visit : October to May.

Entry timings: 0600-1800 Hrs.

Where to stay : KTDC Hotels: Aranya Nivas, Lake Palace, Periyar House,

Forest houses where advance reservation has to be made; Lodging facilities at Kumily.

How to get there :

The entry point to the reserve is Thekkady, which is accessibly by good roads from the airport of Madurai (145 kms.) Kochi (190 kms.) and Thiruvananthapuram (272 kms.). The nearest railhead is Kottayam (114 kms.). The nearest town is Kumily (4 kms.)

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Thiruvananthapuram 695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217.

The Wildlife Preservation Officer, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady-685536 Tel : 0486-322027, 322025. 322028.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Located 40 kms. from Thodupuzha Town, this sanctuary spreads over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola Taluks of Idukki district. It was formed in 1976. The animals found here include elephant, deer, bear, leopard, tiger, wild pig etc. Birds seen are hornbill, kingfisher, woodpecker. Among reptiles one can find cobra, viper, python, rat snake etc.

Where to stay : Forest Inspection Bungalow at Vellapara (Tel : 32323), Rest House of the PWD, Inspection Bungalow at Vazhathopu (Tel : 32328) of the Electricity Board, Private Hotels at Cheruthoni, Kattapana, Thodupuzha etc.

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram 695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217.

Wildlife Warden/Assistant Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division, Vallappara, Painavu P.O. Idukki 685 603, Tel : 04862-322271.

Eravikulam National Park

The sanctuary is located in Devikulam Taluk of Idukki district, 15 kms. north of Munnar. Established in 1975 to protect the Nilgiri tahr, the Eravikulam Sanctuary was declared a National Park in 1978 considering its ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological and zoological significance. Tigers, panthers, wild dogs, sloth bear, Nilgiri langur and wild boar are usually sighted in the open grasslands and shola woods. Also found are civet cats and Jungle cats. The atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is seen in this park. Half of the world's population of the endangered Nilgiri tahr lives here.

When to visit : Except during the monsoon season the park is open everyday from 0700 hrs to 1800 hrs.

Where to stay : Private Lodges in Munnar. Government Guest houses at Munnar and Devikulam, PWD Rest Houses.

How to get there :

The Park can be approached via Kochi (135 kms) and Kottayam (148 kms) by road. The nearest airport is Kochi and nearest railhead is Aluva (115 kms) from Munnar.

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram – 695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217, Wildlife Warden/Assistant Wildlife Warden, Eravikulam National Park, Rajamalai, Near Nemakad Estate, Munnar. Tel : 04865-30487.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats (Idukki district), the sanctuary occupies the forested region on either side of the Marayoor-Udumalpet road. This is the second habitat of the endangered giant grizzled squirrel of India. The location of the sanctuary offers the unique advantage of watching its fascinating wildlife at close quarters from the road without venturing deep into the jungle. Elephant, gaur, spotted deer, panther, sambar, giant grizzled squirrel, hanuman langur, rabbit etc. are some of the other inhabitants of the sanctuary.

When to visit : Almost throughout the year, except during October to November. Timings: 0700-1800 Hrs. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.

Where to stay : Private Lodges and Government Guest houses at Munnar, Marayoor and Udumalpet.

How to get there :

The nearest airports are Coimbatore and Kochi. The nearest railways stations are Pollachi (60 kms.) and Aluva (200 kms.)

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram – 695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217. Wildlife Warden, Eravikulam National Park, Munnar Tel : 04865-30487, The Assistant Wildlife Warden, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Marayoor P.O. via Munnar, Idukki District.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

13 kms. north-east of Kothamangalam along the Pooyamkutty Road (Ernakulam District). The Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, constituted in 1983, occupies the catchment area of the Bhoothathankettu Dam. Leopard, bear, porcupine, Indian roller, cuckoo, common snipe, crow pheasant, jungle nightjar, kite, grey drongo, Malabar trogon, woodpecker, large pied wagtail, baya sparrow, grey jungle fowl, Indian hill myna, robin, jungle babbler and darter are inhabitants of this sanctuary. The elephant is an occasional visitor. Some of the rare birds found here are crimson-throated barbet, bee-eater, sunbird, shrike, fairy bluebird, grey-headed fishing eagle, black winged kite, night heron, grey heron, grey hornbill, Malabar shama and Malabar hornbill. Prior permits are required from Assistant Wildlife Warden, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Njayapili, Kothamangalam (via). Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division. Vellapara. Painavu Tel : 232271.

Where to stay : PWD Rest House near the dam. Private Lodges at Kothamangalam.

How to get there :

The nearest railway station is Aluva (48 kms.) and the nearest airport is Kochi (71 kms.).

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram-695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217. Wildlife Warden; Idukki Wildlife Division, Vellapara, Painavu P. 0. Idukki District-685605 Tel : 04862.32271. Assistant Wildlife Warden, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Njayapili P. 0. Ko

Chimmmi Wildlife Sanctuaiy

The sanctuary lies in the western valley of Nelliampathy in the Mukundapuram Taluk of Thrissur district. Part of it is adjacent to the Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary and the rest to the Parambikulam Sanctuary. Some of the mammals found here are leopard, elephant, bear, wild pig, wild bison, tiger etc.

When to visit : Almost throughout the year, except during October-November. Timings: 0700- 1800 Hrs. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.

Where to stay : Inspection Bungalow near the dam, Hotels at Ambaloor.

How to get there :

The nearest town is Amballoor (12 kms.) on the Ernakulam-Thrissur road. The nearest railhead (and bus stations) is Thrissur (35 kms.) and the nearest airport is Kocli (50 kms.).

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram-695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217. Divisional Forest Officer, Chalakkudy Division, Chalakkudy PO Thrissur District-680307. Tel : 0487-702340.

Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

Established in 1958, this sanctuary is about 20 kms. east of Thrissur, in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams with headquarters at Peechi, 15 kms. away. The sanctuary is part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmini sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to over 60 types of birds, 10 types of snakes and wildlife like leopard, tiger, fox etc. Some herbivores like elk, deer, barking deer can be seen in the leaf-sheddine forests and meadows. Bison and elephant are also seen in the interior forests.

Where to stay : Rest House and information centre at Peechi.

How to get there :

There are direct buses from Thrissur to Peechi. The nearest railway station is Thrissur and the nearest airport is Kochi (98 kms.).

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife)

Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram-695014 TeleFax : 0471-322217. The Wildlife Warden, Peechi Wildlife Sanctuaiy, Peechi P. 0. Thrissur District Tel : 0487- 282017.

Silent Valley National Park

This park is situated 40 kms. from Mannarkad, in the northeastern corner of Palakkad district. The Silent Valley National Park is perhaps the closest to a virgin forest in the entire Western Ghats. It is home to India's last substantial stretch of tropical evergreen rain forest, and a large number of wild animals, thanks to its difficult terrain and remoteness. The valley has a fair representation of all peninsular mammals such as lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, tiger, leopard, leopard cat, fishing cat, common palm civet, small Indian civet, brown palm civet, ruddy mongoose, stripe necked mongoose, wild dog, sloth bear, otter, flying squirrel, malabar giant squirrel, Indian pangolin (scaly ant eater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, gaur and elephant. And over 170 species of avi fauna have been recorded of which 31 are migrants. Rare species such as Indian black-crested baza, Bonelis' hawk eagle, rufous bellied hawk eagle, shaheen falcon, short eared owl, peninsular scops owl, Ceylon frog moth, great Indian hornbill, Nilgiri laughing thrush, house martin, rufous bellied shortwing, Malay bittern etc. are also found here. Also found are more than 100 species of butterflies and -400 species of moths. Quite a few of them are extremely rare and endemic.

Where to stay : Rest House of the Forest department.

How to get there :

Nearest bus station: Mannarkad (32 kms.). Nearest airport: Coimbatore (115 kms.).

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram - 695014 TeleFax; (0471-322217. The Wildlife Warden, Silent Valley National Park, Mannarkad P. 0. Palakkad District Tel : 04924- 22056.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuaiy

Tucked away in the valley between the Anamala ranges of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy ranges of Kerala on the majestic Western Ghats is the Paramabikulam Wildlife sanctuary in Palakkad. It is home to varied wildlife such as bonnet macaque, lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, loris, tiger, leopard, jungle cat, civet, mongoose, fox, bear, elephant, gaur, Nilgiri Tahr, spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, pangoline, crocodile, varanus, pond terapin, cane turtle, gecko, skunk, chameleon, snakes like king cobra, spectacled cobra, krait, viper, python, green keel back, rat snake, vine snake etc. Also found here are a wide variety of fish and birds such as aral, bral, vattudi, thilopia, noovi, mooshu, poochutti, kollottie, exyprius, taral etc. and darter, little cormorant, black eagle, lesser adjutant stork, black capped kingfisher, great Indian hornbill, broad billed roller, black woodpecker, to name some.

Where to stay : Government rest houses and private lodges.

How to get there :

Good roads and rails connect the sanctuary with Kozhikode, Mysore and Ooty – all within a 110 kms. Radius. The nearest airport is Kozhikode. Sulthan Bathery, Tholpetty and Muthanga are important centers of the Sanctuary.

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Thiruvananthapuram 695 014. TeleFax : 0471-322217 Divisional Forests Officer, Parambikulam, Thoonacadavu. P. 0. 678661 via Pollachi, Palakkad, Distt.Tel : 04253-877253.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is contiguous to the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu. Rich in bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. In addition to elephants it also houses species like tiger, panther, jungle cat, civet cat, monkey, wild dog, bison, deer, bear etc. The tiger population in the sanctuary is also fairly good. Birds like the peacock, babbler, cuckoo, owl, woodpecker, jungle fowl etc. are also found in plenty.

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at Irutty, near the sanctuary.

How to get there :

Nearest bus stations: Thalasseri (45 kms), Kannur (45 kms).

Nearest railway station: Thalasseri. Nearest airport: Kozhikode (113 kms.) from Irutty).

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife). Tniruvananthapuram 695 014 TeleFax : 0471 - 322217.

The Wildlife Warden, Wayanad Wildlife: Sanctuary, Sultan Bathery, Wayanad. Tel : (0493.620454.)

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

This Sanctuary is situated next to the Central State Farm at Aralam in Kannur District. Deer, boar, elephant, sloth bear, sambar, bison, leopard, jungle cat and different types of squirrel are some of the inhabitants of this sanctuary.

Where to stay : Accommodation is available at Irutty, near the sanctuary.

How to get there :

Nearest bus stations: Thalasseri (45 kms.). Kannur (45 kms.).

Nearest railway station: Thalasseri.

Nearest airport: Kozhikode (113 kms. from Irutty)

Contact : The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Thiruvananthapuram - 695 014. TeleFax : 0471-3222217. The Wildlife Warden, Aralam Wildlife Division, Kannur.

Tel : 0490 - 493160. The Assistant Wildlife Warden, Irutty, Kannur District - 670 673.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

These islands lying in the Bay of Bengal were once a hill range stretching from Sumatra (Indonesia), 120 kms. to the south of Burma. Many of the islands are still covered with rich tropical evergreen and tropical moist deciduous forests and are home to many endemic birds and reptiles. Most of the mammals are introduced species. Not only is the bird and forest life fascinating, but many islands are refuges for ancient and highly threatened indigenous peoples struggling to maintain their traditions and identity despite the pressures of the 21st century.

The temperature of the islands ranges from 68- 86 degree F (20-30 degree C) with the rainy season from June to December.

Unlike many parks and sanctuaries most of these areas have not been established for mammals but rather plants, birds and marine life. Most mammals are rodents and bats although introduced species include the Andaman pig, chital, hog deer, elephant and palm civet. Of the Indigenous mammals the crab-eating or Nicobar macaque, the Nicobar tree shrew and the dugong are significant. Of the 255 bird species, 112 are endemic to the islands and many are highly endangered.

Barren Island Sanctuary

Established : 1977.

Barren Island is located approximately 60 kms. east of the main Andaman group of islands. It is about 125 kms. north-east of Port Blair.

When to visit : January to March.

Animals and birds of the park : The waters around the island are home to dolphins and dugongs.

Marine National Park

Established : 1983. Formally known as Crocodile National Park.

This National Park is situated about 50 kms. west of Port Blair.

Bird life includes white-bellied sea eagle, Andaman wood pigeon and Andaman teal (Anas Gibberifons).

When to visit : January to March.

Animals and birds of the park : This sanctuary is home to an important range of marine reptiles including green sea leather backed Olive Ridley turtles, hawk-billed turtles and salt water crocodiles.

Middle Button Island National Park

(North & South)

Established : 1979 (the southern park was established in 1977).

These three National Parks are situated along the West Coast of the Andaman Islands.

When to visit : January to March.

Animals and birds of the park : These small island parks have few land mammals. The dolphin and dugong are often sighted near the coast, the water monitor lizard is also found.

Mount Harriet National Park

Established : 1979.

About 15 kms. South of Port Blair. Largely hill and ridge evergreen forest with accessible valley and flat land forest that has been exploited in the past. Size : 47 sq. kms.

When to visit : January and February.

Animals and birds of the park : This island is prime habitat for the Andaman wild pig.

Narcondum Island Sanctuary

Established : 1977.

This island sanctuary is located about 260 kms. north-east of Port Blair.

When to visit : November to April.

Animals and birds of the park : This sanctuary protects the sole habitat of the Narcondum hornbill.

North Reef Island Sanctuary

Established : 1977

Location : Small island to the west of North Andaman.

When to visit : November to April

Animals and birds of the park : This island sanctuary protects the habitat of the Andaman teal, of which it has the largest population and the Nicobar pigeon.

South Sentinel Sanctuary

Established : 1977.

Location : Located about 125 kms. South of Port Blair.

Size : This marine sanctuary has a core area of only 1.6 sq.kms.

When to visit : January to May.

Animals and birds of the park : Green-sea, Olive Ridley and leather backed turtles all lay eggs here and the white-bellied sea eagle hunts in the surrounding waters. There may still be some robber crabs.