Explore National Park in Uttar Pradesh & WLS! [MAP]

National Park in uttar pradesh

National Park in Uttar Pradesh – There is One National Park, Dudhwa National Park and 23 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh, India (Source- ENVIS,GoI ). All of which are extensively covered below, along with a beautiful hand-crafted map. Please leave a comment below if you like it!. 

National Park in Uttar Pradesh

Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh

Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa National Park is located in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur-Kheri district at 28.5402° N latitude and 80.6163° E longitude. Dudhwa National Park is situated inside the environmentally fragile Terai Arc Landscape area. The Park consists of a vast alluvial plain along the tributaries of Mohana and Suheli, interlaced with various streams, lakes, and ponds. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve includes Dudhwa National Park.

In the year 1977, it was designated as a national park. This region is part of the sub-Himalayan region known as the Terai belt. This section of the Terai is recognised as one of the world’s most threatened ecosystems. The Park consists of a vast alluvial plain along the tributaries of Mohana and Suheli, interlaced with various streams, lakes, and ponds. Rich and exceptionally fertile Indo-Gangetic plains foster a flourishing growth of the forest’s diverse flora. The Park contains some of the world’s finest ‘Sal’ tree forests. 

The Dudhwa National Park, together with the Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, is home to an astounding variety of plant and animal species. Under Project Tiger, the protected portions of the National Park and the two wildlife sanctuaries comprise the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. More than 38 species of animals, 90 species of fish, 400 species of birds, and 16 species of reptiles reside in Dudhwa National Park.

Tiger, the Rhinoceros, Swamp deer, Elephant, Sambar, Hog deer, Cheetal, and common mongoose, among others, inhabit the Park. The Park is also home to a variety of species, such as the Swamp Francolin, Bengal Florican, and Great Slaty Woodpecker. 

Also prevalent are cranes, cormorants, heron, Minivets, kingfishers, orioles, and bulbuls. Swamp Deers (Barasingha) and Tigers are Park’s primary attractions. The Park is renowned for the hard work of ‘Billy’ Arjan Singh, the environmentalist who was essential in establishing Dudhwa as a Swamp Deer refuge.

Lakes and rivers inside the national Park supply the reserve with fresh water throughout the year. The Ghagra River’s tributaries run through the Park. The bodies of water are also home to an abundance of wildlife, including turtles and crocodiles. The National Park serves a crucial role in preserving the region’s natural balance and biodiversity.

From mosaic meadows to thick sal woods to marshy marshes, Dudhwa National Park’s landscape is as diverse as the variety of fauna it harbours. The northern boundary of the Park is the Indo-Nepal border, while the southern limit is the Suheli River. This National Park comprises Sal, Shisham, Jamun, Sehore, and Gular trees and has been classified as a tropical semi-deciduous, deciduous, dry-deciduous, and swamp forest. 

Grasses cover about twenty per cent of this Park. The marshes, rivers, lakes, and streams that are either permanent or dry up during the summer months fill up during the monsoons and constitute one-third of the main habitat here. Lakes and rivers inside the national Park supply the reserve with fresh water throughout the year. The Ghagra River’s tributaries run through the Park. The National Park serves a crucial role in preserving the region’s natural balance and biodiversity.

Flora in Dudhwa National Park

Sal, Semal, Khair, Siras, Haldu, Tun, Teak, Sisam, Eucalyptus, Silvery munj. Red retwa, Narkul, Cotton like Kans etc.

Fauna in Dudhwa National Park

Mammals-Tiger, Rhinoceros, Swamp deer, Elephant, Hog deer, Civet, Cheetal, Wild pig, Rhesus monkey, Langur, Sloth bear, Blue bull, Porcupine, Sambar, Jackal, Barking deer, Leopard cat, Fishing cat etc.

Reptiles – Turtles, Python, Monitor lizard, Mugger, Gharial etc.

Birds – Hornbill, Red Jungle Fowl, Peafowl, Black-necked Storks, White-necked Storks, Black Storks, White Storks, Fishing eagle, Bengal Florican, Serpent eagle, Osprey, Great Horned Owl, the Forest Eagle Owl, the Brown Fish Owl, the Tawny Fish Owl, the Dusky Horned Owl, Paradise flycatcher, Woodpeckers, Shama, Indian Pitta, Bengal Florican, Orioles, Emerald dove etc.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Wildlife Sanctuaries of Uttar Pradesh

1. Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary

Uttar Pradesh’s Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary (located at about 28° 24’01” North and 80° 22’01” East) borders the Gola Tehsil of Lakhimpur District and the Powayan Tehsil of Shahjahanpur District. It is located on the southern bank of the Sharda River and encompasses 227 km2. Formerly part of the South Kheri Forest Division, the Sharada River flows along a portion of the Sanctuary’s eastern edge. This location is a part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and is linked to the South Kheri Forest Division. 

KWLS exemplifies a typical Terai ecosystem with large alluvial plains, marshes, hygrophilous grasses, woods, and moist forests. Riverine forests, mixed Sal forest, teak (Tectona grandis) plantation, woods, and alluvial grasslands comprise the region’s vegetation. Except for riverine forests, which are dominated by damp evergreen plants, all other types of forests are deciduous in nature. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The Sanctuary is home to huge species like tigers, elephants, leopards, and Gangetic dolphins, and it is considered a vital habitat for the Critically Endangered Gharial. In addition to Gharial, Maggar crocodile, Gangetic softshell turtle, and several fish species, the river Gerua that passes through the Sanctuary have Gharial, Maggar crocodile, and Gangetic softshell turtle.

2. Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary

The Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is located between 28°15’28.8″ N, 81°9’41.8″ and 27°19’55.6″N, 81°10’45.7″. The Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important representatives of the Tarai-bhabar bio-geographic sub-division, the upper Gangetic plains, with over 95 tree species, 57 shrubs, 28 climbers, and 23 species of grasses, as well as over 47 species of mammals, 449 species of birds, 35 species of reptiles, 10 species of amphibians, and 79 species of fish. 

The Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is intimately connected to Royal Bardia National Park. Low alluvial tracts support the growth of sissoo, Khair, semal, and several other species. The most important tree species include Sal, Asan, Shisham, Bel, Kusum, and Ficus spp. Five forest types cover 400 km2 of the Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary’s territory. There is the sal forest, the teak forest, the scrub forest, the mixed forest, and the riverine forest.

Between the slopes of the Himalayas and the Gangetic plain lies the flat, alluvial Terai area. It encompasses a portion of southwest Nepal and the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. This region’s moist deciduous vegetation is characterised by vast sections of Semal and teak forest, which are interspersed with grasslands dominated by Saccharum species. It resides in the Tarai-Bhabhar Gangetic Plain and is home to a variety of ecosystems.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

3. Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the Indo-Nepal border, straddles the districts of Balrampur and Shrawasti in Uttar Pradesh. Suhelwa falls in the Bhabar region. The Bhabar is a narrow belt of about 7-15 km wide of sloping land, located on the outer margins of Shivaliks. Its terrain is porously consisting mainly of boulders and gravel, and the water level is as low as 200-300ft. Terai-Bhabar constitutes a distinct ecologically important region of the country. The Sanctuary measures 120 km. in breadth and 4-6 km. Wide is elongated in shape and is located on the Indo-Nepal border along an east-west axis.

The area is drained by 8-10 major seasonal rivers, many of which drain into artificial reservoirs built along the southern boundary of the Park. The unique geophysical attributes of the area, its plantation history, and numerous drainages and reservoirs have given rise to a mosaic of varied forest types such as pure sal, teak, broad leaf moist deciduous, semi-evergreen and small patches of grasslands fringing the reservoirs. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

There are total 11 water reservoirs in and around the Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary so as to manage monsoon floods and regulate the water level for agricultural and other functions. The wetlands are namely, Motipur, Rampur, Vanghoghwa, Khairman, Girgitahi, Ganeshpur, Baghelkhand, Bhagwanpur, Majgaowan, Chittaurgarh and Kohargaddi.

Fauna in Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Different types of mammals are found here, viz. Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Hyena, Jackal, Wild Boar, Sambhar, Spotted Deer, Neelgaya, Barking Deer, along with Monkeys of different types. In birds little Grebe, Indian Cormorant, Little Cormorant, Darter, Indian Pond Heron, Cattle-egret, Great-egret, Little-egret, Common Teal, Spot-Billed Duck, Black-Shouldered Kite, Black Kite, Greater Spotted Eagle, Long-Billed Vulture, White Rumped Vulture, Grey Francolin, Sarus Crane, Water Cock, Common Moorhen, Purple Moorhen, Asian Openbill, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Grey leg goose, Bar-Headed Goose etc.

Flora in Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

In this Wild Life Sanctuary, the main tree species are Sal, Asna, Khair, Teak etc. With these species, Black Sheesham, Jamun, Haldu, Faldu, Zegna, Harra, Bahera, and Rohani are other important species. The Sanctuary area is very rich in medicinal plants. Some species of medicinal plants are white Musuli, Black Musuli, Piper longum, Acacia concinna. Different types of Butterflies are also available here.

 4. Parvati Aranga Wildlife Sanctuary

Parvati and Aranga are two linked bodies of water with a total size of 1,084 acres. They are rainfed lakes in a deep natural depression in the Terai Gangetic plains. In 1997, the Parvati Aranga Sanctuary was established. However, the core and buffer zones have yet to be defined. Although there are no villages in the close proximity to the Sanctuary, agricultural fields have approached the Wetland’s edge. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Many agricultural areas have encroached into forest territory, according to the Forest Department. Settlement of rights and determination of the Sanctuary’s exact limits are necessary for proper administration. It is also critical to include local people in wetland management so that both humans and birds benefit. There is no interpretive centre at the Sanctuary, and there are no public information leaflets about this vital Wetland. 

Key biodiversity in Parvati Aranga Wildlife Sanctuary

AVIFAUNA: Parvati Aranga Sanctuary is well known for large numbers of waterbirds during winter. When the rainfall is good, and water spread is normal, more than 20,000 waterbirds congregate at this IBA site. The population of Sarus crane is more than 200. Parvati Aranga is an important site for Sarus conservation in India. Congregatory birds in the Sanctuary include many species of ducks and waders. This Wetland has been declared an IBA.

5. Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

The Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary is 56 kilometres from Gorakhpur and 50 kilometres from Maharajganj. Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary’s environment is home to animals such as the Tiger, Leopard, Cheetal, Bear, Wild cat, Wild boar, Python, and others. Sohagibarwa Wild Life Sanctuary, established in 1987 from the Old Gorakhpur Forest Division, is located in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district. 

The Sanctuary is located on the state’s border, with the international Indo-Nepal border to the north and the interstate U.P.-Bihar border to the east. In 1987, this Sanctuary was formed out of the northern section of the famous Old Gorakhpur Forest Division. The Sanctuary, which is drained by the Gandak, Pyas, and Rohin rivers, contains a multitude of ponds, lakes [Tals], wetlands, and open grasslands. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Fauna in Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Animals inhabiting such a diverse environment include the Leopard, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Langur, Deer, Blue Bull, Wild Boar, Porcupine, and more. Little Cormorant, Snake Bird, Brahimini Duck, Common Teal, Little Egret, Cattle Egret, Indian Pied Hornbill, Tree Pie, Little Green Bee-eater, Pond Heron, Red-vented Blue Bul, Golden-backed Woodpecker, Pied King Fisher, Blue King Fisher, and more birds may be found.

Flora in Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

This Sanctuary is surrounded by lush forest cover. Sal woodland covers over 75% of the region, while other humid areas are covered with Jaamun, Gutal, Semal, Khair, and other trees. The Sanctuary’s lower part, which is waterlogged after rains, is made up of grasslands and areas of cane woods.

6. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary

On the occasion of World Wetland Day 2022, the Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh was designated as one of India’s Ramsar sites. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary is an open habitat for many migratory and resident birds. The Forest and Wildlife Department of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, India, designated it as a Bird Sanctuary in 1990. 

Bakhira bird sanctuary, also known as Bakhira Tal, is a shallow-water, river-connecting wetland located west of the Rapti riverside. The Bakhira Tal (Wetland) is the largest natural Wetland in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. It is a perennial marsh fed by natural rain and the Ami River, a tributary of the Rapti River. Aside from birds, the Sanctuary features a wide range of trees, plants, and hydrophytes. 

During the winter, over 40,000 birds of approximately 30 species were counted. It is a large body of water that covers an area of 29 square kilometres. The Wetland’s environment and topography are practically flat, resembling a typical ‘Terai’ setting. The Sanctuary takes its name from the nearby settlement of Bakhira. The neighbouring communities rely on the marsh for their living, which includes fishing, agricultural operations, and fuelwood collecting.

Despite the fact that the marsh has been designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary, it is subject to a number of human pressures. Migratory bird poaching and fishing are major challenges. It is an essential habitat for sarus and winter migrating birds; hence it is critical to preserve the area/Wetland. Wetland loss can diminish the number of stopping locations for migratory birds and breeding species. 

Bakhira Lake is an important wetland in eastern Uttar Pradesh. A vast number of migratory and resident birds use the Sanctuary for breeding and nesting. The bulk of migratory birds originates in Siberia, Tibet, China, and Europe. Furthermore, some fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals may be found in and around Bakhira Tal. 

The flora of this area is comprised of semi-arid vegetation and characteristic aquatic vegetation of lakes on North Indian plains. Bakhira Lake is home to a wide range of aquatic plants native to the upper Gangetic system. However, because of the hard climatic conditions and rocky terrain, the Sanctuary is claimed to have a relatively lower quantity of aquatic species. The bodies of water are shallow and boggy. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The district receives 1166 mm of rain per year on average. During the winter, the average lowest temperature is about 9 C, and the average high temperature is around 23 C. The relative humidity is high in the post-monsoon seasons, reaching exceeding 70%.

7. Soor Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary

Soor Sarovar Sanctuary is around 20 kilometres from Agra on the Agra-Delhi highway. It is located in the biotic province of the upper Gangetic plain. Soor Sarovar Sanctuary is located between latitude N27o 14′ 4′′ and longitude E77o 49′ 38′′ and E77o 52′ 40′′. The Sanctuary is administratively located in Uttar Pradesh’s Agra revenue district.

The Soor Sarovar Sanctuary (SSBS), Keetham, Agra, is a tiny but significant bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. It consists of a man-made freshwater marsh known as a jheel. Because of the enormous number of migratory and resident birds that visit this wetland year after year, it was included in the Protected Area (PA) network by proclaiming it a sanctuary under Section 18 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.

It was named after Soordas, the renowned poet of Hindi literature who was born blind and whose birthplace is claimed to be inside the boundaries of this Sanctuary. It is unique for its scenic beauty, religion-cultural legacy, and rich assemblage of wildlife and flora.

A large lake surrounded by rich and luxuriant flora of semi-evergreen and deciduous forests is a rare experience and gorgeous sight in the semi-arid region of the country’s urban areas. The overall area under the administrative supervision of SSBS is 7.99 km2, of which 4.03 km2 is notified bird sanctuary area and 3.96 km2 is Soordas reserve forest block containing government land area. Thus, the core zone is 3.96 km2, the buffer zone is 3.55 km2, and the tourism zone is 0.48 km2.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Although the Sanctuary’s boundaries are inside the district of Agra, the river Yamuna forms the Sanctuary’s northern boundary as well as the inter-district boundary between Agra and Mathura.

8. Patna Wildlife Sanctuary

Patna Sanctuary has an area of 109ha and is located in Jalesar Tehsil of Etah District in Uttar Pradesh (27.52656 N & 78.32003 E). It features a tiny pool (Jheel) as well as a track of Date Palm Trees. The bird sanctuary is named after the settlement of Patna, which is located nearby. Patna jheel is a type of rain-fed Wetland that is classified as a natural freshwater shallow wetland or Jheel. The eastern section of the Sanctuary is densely forested with Date Palm Trees, while the Sanctuary’s boundary and trails are forested with Prosopis juliflora.

PBS has reported about 180 different bird species. Every winter, thousands of migratory birds visit this IBA location. Common mesopredators in the area include the Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Fishing Cat, Indian Fox, and Common Palm Civet. For mesocarnivores, the habitat also includes plenty of prey species such as Indian Bush Rat, Rufous-tailed Hare, and immature Nilgai.

Phoenix sylvestrix, Prosopis juliflora, Ficus religiosa, Ficus recemosa, Acacia spp., Ziziphus spp., Pithecelobium dulce, Moras alba, Dulbergia sissoo, and Aza di recta indica are among the plants found in the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary also has aquatic flora such as Hydrilla verticillata, Salvinia, Azolla, Ceratophyllum demersum, Vallisneria spiralis, Potamogeton crispus, and Eichhornia crassipes. Excessive growth of Ipomea cornea and Ipomea aguaticain the outer reaches of the Wetland.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

9. Saman Wildlife Sanctuary

The Saman Wildlife Sanctuary is in Bhogav, on the Agra-Mainpuri-Farrukhabad road. It is easily accessible by road from Agra and Aligarh. It is also accessible by train, with Tundla Junction serving as the nearest station.

Saman bird sanctuary is a natural wetland in Uttar Pradesh’s Karhal tehsil of Mainpuri district. The Wetland, which covers an area of roughly 525 acres, is located on flat terrain typical of the Indo-Gangetic floodplain region. Rainfall is the primary source of water at the Site, which is surrounded by an agricultural area. 

The Sanctuary is a biodiversity-rich area and home to several rare and endangered species, including the larger spotted eagle and the sarus crane. The Wetland attracts a huge number of migratory birds throughout the winter, while resident bird fauna can be seen all year. This refuge has been home to 187 different bird species from 42 different families. Many aquatic birds winter here, including northern pintail (Anas acuta), whistling duck, great white pelican, black-crowned night heron, and common teal. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The Sanctuary is home to several species, including the blue bull, jackal, and monitor lizard. The Wetland also provides habitat for a varied range of hydrophytic flora, including aquatic plants such as Nelumbo, Cyperus, Typha, and Phragmites. It was designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Birdlife International based on criteria A1 (threatened species), A4i (>1 per cent of the biogeographic population), and A4iii (>20000 waterbirds).

10. Sandi Wildlife Sanctuary

Sandi sanctuary, with an area of 3.09 hectares, is located in the Hardoi district on the Hardoi-Sandi Road, near the Deher Jheal and Garra rivers. Sandi Wetlands, which are near this refuge, were designated as Sandi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1991. Migratory birds are known to rest in this river before approaching the Sandi Bird Sanctuary. The Sanctuary’s goal is to protect and conserve the Wetland, with a focus on local and migratory birds, as well as their natural habitat, which includes aquatic flora and animals. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has additionally designated this Sanctuary as an “Important Bird Area.” The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, has classified this Wetland as part of the National Wetland Conservation Programme.

Sandi Bird Sanctuary (SBS) has been designated as part of India’s National Wetland Conservation Programme (MoEF, 2007). Sandi Bird Sanctuary is located in the Uttar Pradesh district of Hardoi at 26° 53′ N and 80° 46′ E in the Bilgram Tehsil (Fig 1). This Sanctuary covers 309 hectares. The average annual rainfall is approximately 1,000 mm, and the temperature ranges from 30° C to 48° C, with a humidity of approximately 94 per cent. The “Garra” River flows close to the Sandi Bird Sanctuary. This river is said to be a rest stop for migratory birds before they approach the Sanctuary.

11. Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary

The Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary covers an area of 80 square kilometres and includes the two Ox-Bow Lakes, Lakh and Bahosi, as well as the surrounding marshes. The Sanctuary, which is only 38 kilometres from the old town of Kannauj, is a key breeding and nesting habitat for various species of Water-Fowl. Various bird species converge on these two lakes, which are 6 kilometres apart, during the winter months. A walking trail connects the two lakes, with Lakh being the first.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Every year, around 50,000 birds, including the endangered Greater-Spotted Eagle, visit the two lakes. BirdLife International has designated Lakh Bahosi as an “Important Bird Area” in India. It is also one of the wetlands protected by the Ministry of Environment and Forests’ National Wetland Conservation Program.

Lake Bahosi Sanctuary, which is largely off the tourist trail, is a treasure mine for any ornithologist, with a good chance of seeing Water-Fowl such as Greylag Goose, Black-headed Gull, White Stork, Common Greenshank, Bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, and Shoveler, among many others. Open-billed Stork, Painted Stork, Wooly-Necked Stork, and Black-Necked Stork are among the resident bird species.

12. Nawabganj Wildlife Sanctuary

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary (NBS) is located on National Highway 25 in Tehseel Nawabganj, District Unnao. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is located on the Lucknow-Kanpur National Highway, approximately 45 kilometres from Lucknow. The Wild Animal Protection Law of 1972 was used to construct this bird sanctuary in 1984. The primary goal of the NBS is to protect and conserve both resident and migratory bird species in the wild. NBS also has a lake (Wetland) that serves as a good home for a variety of plants and fauna. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The average annual rainfall is around 1,000 mm, and the temperature fluctuates from 1° C to 48° C, with a humidity of roughly 94 per cent. NBS covers an area of 224.60 hectares. A canal close to the refuge serves as a permanent water source for wildlife. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary Lake is a visual beauty and a tourist destination with high economic importance.

13. Samaspur Wildlife Sanctuary

The Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, Raebareli, was established in 1987 and covered an area of 8 square kilometres. It is a perennial marsh with a diverse bird population that includes both migratory and local species.

Every year, over 200 species of migrating birds visit the Sanctuary’s five lakes, which form the Sanctuary’s core. The sanctuary region, formed by the confluence of the lakes Samaspur, Mamani, Gorwa, Hasanpur, Hakganj, and Rohnia, is home to 14 species of ducks, 13 species of waders, four species of storks, and ten species of raptors.

Greylag Goose, Bar-headed Goose, White-eyed Pochard, Wigeon, Brahimini Duck, Pintail, Common Teal, Shoveler, Great Crested Grebe, and Mallard are among the important migratory birds in Samaspur. Open-billed Stork, Painted Stork, White Ibis, Darter, Little Cormorant, Indian Cormorant, Lesser Whistling Duck, and Purple Heron are among the resident bird species.

A Bird Interpretation Centre has been established to fulfil the tourists’ curiosity and questions about the winged visitors and residents. Watch towers are strategically located to provide clear views of the birds.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

14. National Chambal Sanctuary

The National Chambal Sanctuary spans three states: Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan and covers around 5,400 square kilometres. The National Chambal Sanctuary is located in the Uttar Pradesh districts of Agra and Etawah, with headquarters in Agra. The Chambal Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is 635 square kilometres in size. The Sanctuary’s signature species are the Fresh Water Dolphin and the Gharial.

The Sanctuary was established in 1979 primarily to safeguard the rapidly declining population of the severely endangered Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). The Gharial live in the Chambal River, which runs through the Sanctuary and provides them with refuge in the wild. This river also has smooth-coated otters, eight species of turtles, the endangered Gangetic Dolphin, and a variety of fishes.

The Sanctuary includes a 400-kilometre stretch of the Chambal River as well as swaths of the Chambal ravines on both banks of the river. The Sanctuary encompasses around 180 kilometres of the river in Uttar Pradesh. The river is the core zone, and the sandy banks and surrounding land are the buffer zone. The sanctuary region runs downstream from the Kota barrage in Rajasthan to the confluence of the Chambal and Yamuna rivers at Bhareh in Uttar Pradesh. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

15. Mahaveer Swami Wildlife Sanctuary

Devgarh, a 33-kilometre-long stretch of land near the Betwa River, was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1977. This area of Devgarh is primarily made up of Teak trees and is renowned as the “last Teak wood forest” in Uttar Pradesh’s southwest region. Arjun, Tendu, and Goonj trees can also be found in the area. Bamboo plants can also be found on mountainous terrain. 

Wolf, Jungle Cat, Hyena, Wild Dog, Mongoose, and a variety of Deers, Hares, and Blue Bull can be found in the surrounding areas of Devgarh Sanctuary. Crocodiles, Gharials, Turtles, Pythons, and a wide variety of fish can all be found in the Betwa River.

This Sanctuary is distinguished by the presence of 41 Jain temples spread across an area of approximately 8 acres. Gorgeous sculptures of numerous Gods and Goddesses, carved pillars and edifices, and beautiful statues of the 24 Tirthankars, goddess Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati adorn the Dashaavtar temple precincts.

The Sanctuary, which is located on the banks of the Betwa River and borders the Vindhyachal Hills, contains diverse fauna and flora. Nests of virtually extinct Vultures and Barn Owls can be seen from a great height.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

16. Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary

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

Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary is located in the Vindhyachal range of hills and is home to around 200 kinds of migratory and local birds. Migratory birds such as Goose, Pintail, Common Teal, Cotton Teal, Red Crested Pochard, Surkhab, Coot, and others begin to arrive in November, and by December – January, the refuge is overrun with them. With the arrival of warm weather in March, these visitors begin to return home, only to return the following year. 

Some local species, such as the Spot-billed Duck, Sarus Crane, Painted Stork, White/Black Ibis, Dub Chick, Grebe, Spoon Bill, Open-billed Stork, Cormorants, Egrets, Red-vented Bulbul, Lapwing, Robin, Sandpiper, King Vulture, Scavenger Vulture, Common Parrot, and others, return to this Sanctuary to build nests and lay eggs.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

17. Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary

Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Vindhyachal range and has an area of 263 square kilometres. The dense forest that covers the hills and plain grasslands creates a natural setting for species to thrive. The Sanctuary’s northern portion is densely forested, and the adjacent Ooshan River supports a diverse range of species, including Tendu, Mahua, Bamboo, Dhak, Gooseberry, Wood Apple, Sal, and others. Arjun, Khirni, Jamun, and Goolartrees are more common along the area’s water systems. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The region’s wildlife includes Tiger, Leopard, Wolf, Hyena, Jackal, Wild Dog, Black Buck, a variety of deer, and Blue Bull. Pangolin, crocodile, Gharial, Vulture, and other animals are prevalent, and cranes have been observed in surrounding fields. Painted Storks, Black-necked Storks, and other waterbirds can be found in large numbers around water sources. Watch towers have been installed at strategic locations across the Sanctuary to provide a better view of these creatures in their natural habitat.

Some of the prominent tourist attractions here include the Shabri Waterfall, Raghav Waterfall, Amravati Waterfall, Dhaarkundi Ashram, and Marwariya Devi Temple. The interpretive centres at Manikpur and the Research Centre highlight and provide comprehensive information about the region’s regional importance and biodiversity.

18. Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1982 in Sonbhadra, district Mirzapur, with the goal of protecting the fauna and flora of the Vindhyachal region. The Sanctuary is well-known for the Black Buck. The mixed, dry, deciduous forests that dominate the area have a wide range of vegetation, with the predominant tree vegetation being Baakli, Mahua, Dhaak, and Bamboo. Black Bucks, Chinkaras, Four-Horned Deers, Blue Bulls, Sambar, Cheetals, Bears, Leopards, and other species can be found here. 

Apart from these pythons, Gharials/Crocodiles and various snake species can also be seen. ‘Migratory birds’ are easily recognised in the Sanctuary’s marshes and water-filled areas. Tourists can see birds and animals in their natural habitats and surroundings from water holes and watch towers at vantage locations. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Pre-historic murals discovered in “Lakhania” and adjacent hilly locations, as well as Pre-Cambrian fossils in the “Salakhan” area, bore witness to the region’s ancient origins and existence, establishing it as outstandingly important. Other tourist attractions and historical sites include the Eco-Valley, Black Buck Valley, Sone’s Beauty, and Lord Shiva’s temple in Kanda Kot.

19. Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary

The primary goal of establishing Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary was to protect the declining turtle population, which is on the edge of extinction. Turtle breeding centres were established as part of the Turtle Rehabilitation Plan in Sarnath (Varanasi) and Kukrail Forest (Lucknow).

The eggs of the Carnivorous species of Turtles (the Kathawa — Aspadiritis Gangetic) were taken from the Chambal River to the Sarnath centre, and the young were raised under regulated conditions at the breeding centre. When they reached the appropriate age, they were released into the Ganga River.

The region has been designated as the Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary to protect the released turtles and their natural habitat in the Ganga River. Spadiritis Gangetic, a carnivorous species, has been taken up for breeding and conservation under the auspices of this Sanctuary. Along with the turtles, other aquatic wildlife that lives in this area is being given comprehensive protection.

Out of the 230 turtle species recognised worldwide, 33 are present in India in various locations. In Uttar Pradesh, 13 species are discovered, four of which are carnivorous: Spadiritis Gangetic, Geoclamis hamiltonian, Chitra indica, and Lacimus species (soft shell turtles).

Hart Sal is found in herbivorous plants. Fish such as Rohu, Tegra, and Bhakur are plentiful. The refuge also houses the Gangetic Dolphin.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

20. Chandraprabba Wildlife Sanctuary

The Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Kashi Wildlife Division and is located in the Uttar Pradesh district of Chandauli.

This Sanctuary is home to a variety of wild creatures, including leopard, sloth bear, chinkara/cheetah, hyena, fox, and jackal. This refuge is home to many colourful and unique bird species, including the Peacock, Red Jungle Fowl, Quail, Partridge, Eagle, Vulture, Wild Mynah, Parakeet, Cuckoo, Barn Owl, and Bulbul. This refuge is also home to reptiles such as the Python, Cobra, Krait, Water-Snake, Scorpion, and Monitor Lizard. The caverns in the facade and flanks of the Devdari Waterfall are home to a population of the extinct Vulture.(National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

Tendu, Blue Berries, Mahua, Gooseberry, Palash, Saal, Neem, Semal, and many other plantation kinds are abundant. Musli, Chitawar, Ashwagandha, Chirata, Sarpgandha, and other unique and uncommon medicinal plants utilised in the manufacture of Ayurvedic medicines can also be found.

The prominent tourist attractions for this Sanctuary are the Rajdari, Devdari, and Chandraprabha Waterfalls, which are in full power during the rainy seasons and are surrounded by natural woods.

21. Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary

‘Surha Taal’ was formed by combining the land areas of 45 villages in Baansdih in the Ballia urban area, totalling 3432.93 hectares. It was renamed “Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary.” Locals still refer to this body of water by its old name, ‘Surha Taal.’ Starting at a distance of 10 kilometres from Ballia City, it extends up to Bhikampur village to the west, Singhauli to the north-east, and Dulwara Village to the south-east. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary is located in the Ballia and Baansdih municipal areas. Legends associated with the ‘Surha Taal’ underline its historical, traditional, and religious significance. The Surha Taal is surrounded by 45 villages, and the Surha Taal provides a source of income for the people who live there. Aside from fishing, the populace engaged in agricultural pursuits. During rainy seasons, an area of around 25000 hectares is inundated, allowing for natural habitat extension.

22. Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, with an area of 2073 square kilometres, was formed in 1986 around the northern extremity of the Ganga, which flows through the districts of Muzzafarnagar and Bijnore.

The ancient Ganga route, which is now merely a swampy area, is well renowned for the presence of the Twelve-Horned Deer, or “Barasingha.” The Sanctuary is surrounded on one side by deep woodland and on the other by vast stretches of grasslands with a sprinkling of trees. (National Park in Uttar Pradesh)

The state animal, “Barasingha,” lives in the region, as do Hog Deer, Cheetals, Sambar, Leopard, Wild Cat, Spotted Cat, Monkey, Spider Monkey, Fox, Wolf, Jackal, Mongoose, Bijju, Deer, Wild Hog, Hares/Rabbits, Musk-Rat, Bat, and others. Sarus Cranes, the state bird, can also be seen here, as well as Pythons, Wild Otters, Cobra, Krait, Viper snakes, and a variety of fish in the ponds and lakes. Along with crocodiles and gharials, the Ganga River is home to a plethora of turtles and Gangetic dolphins.

Crocodile/Gharial breeding projects are being carried out here. Local birds such as Brown Partridges, Black Partridges, Quail, Lava Quail, Peacock, Pigeon, Falcon and Hawk, Spotted Bill, Crane, Eagle, Owl, White Vulture, Cuckoo, Nightingale, Kingfisher, Oriel, Golden Oriel, Mynah, Raven, Red-vented Bulbul, Seven Sister, Ashy Rain Babbler, Magpie, Robin, Sparrow, Baya, Red Robin, Parrot, The aquatic body is also home to migrating birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, Bromines Duck, Common Teal, and others.

In conclusion, National Park in Uttar Pradesh and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh are an important part of Uttar Pradesh. They help to preserve the state’s natural beauty and provide a place for people to enjoy the outdoors. I hope that more people will visit these parks and learn about their importance.