Exploring the Wild Beauty: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Located in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India; It comes under the Darjeeling Wildlife Division and can be reached in 30 minutes from Siliguri. The sanctuary is spread over 159 km*2 of reserved forest and was started in 1955 as a game sanctuary. In 1959, it received the status of a sanctuary mainly to protect the Indian Bison and the Royal Bengal Tiger, which were threatened with extinction.

Attraction

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India. It plays an important role in the conservation of Royal Bengal Tiger and Indian Bison. Also, it is rich in both native flora and fauna. Recently, it has been declared as an “Important Bird Area” as it preserves and protects a wide variety of birds. It is one of the 566 existing sanctuaries in India, providing safety and security to wildlife, mainly Indian Bison and Royal Bengal Tigers. It is located in West Bengal. To several plant and animal species, this sanctuary is home. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its birds, Indian Bison and Royal Bengal Tiger.

History

In West Bengal, this important sanctuary covers an area of 159 sq km. It started as a play sanctuary, where the authorities allowed children to enjoy various animals. But in 1959, the forest got the status of a sanctuary. West Bengal ensures the safety of Indian Bison and Royal Bengal Tiger, as these two are listed endangered species. Apart from these two species, different types of animals and birds are also found in this forest.

This sanctuary has the altitude of 500 feet to 4300 feet. It starts from Sukna, also known as Gateway, to Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Sukna is situated at an altitude of 500 feet above sea level. It extends up to Lotpancher at an altitude of 4300 feet. This variation in elevation results in a variety of vegetation types, including riparian forest and dense mixed moist forest.

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary includes several forest villages like Gulma, Sevoke, Sat Mile, Latlong, Sukna and Kalijhora etc. in West Bengal.

To clear UPSC prelims, candidates must know about sanctuaries in depth.In the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, The Royal Bengal Tiger found is also the national animal of India. Those interested can find important information about animals in the linked articles.

Inside/Outside Views

Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary has a beautiful environment. There is a natural scene. A person who visits the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary will see the natural scenery and will see many animals there. In the interior view one finds a landscape.

Upon entering the sanctuary, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and a variety of trees, plants, and vegetation. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. As you explore the trails, you may encounter langurs, macaques, elephants, deer, and if you’re lucky, even elusive big cats like leopards.

The sanctuary is also known for its picturesque landscapes, with meandering rivers, gentle streams, and tranquil ponds. The Mahananda River runs through the sanctuary, providing a serene and scenic backdrop for your nature walk.

Outside the sanctuary, you might find surrounding villages, towns, and agricultural lands. The sanctuary is situated in the Himalayan foothills, so the landscape beyond the sanctuary’s borders may include terraced fields, local settlements, and winding roads that lead to nearby areas.

Remember that the actual views may vary based on the specific locations and perspectives within and outside the sanctuary. If you’re interested in seeing images or videos, I recommend searching online platforms or travel websites for visual representations of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to Reach

By Road: Siliguri is the main access to Darjeeling by road. It is 77 km away from there. And it is well connected to all major cities in India. One can easily hire a taxi from here to reach at mahananda wildlife sanctuary.

By Train: New Jalpaiguri is closest railway station of Darjeeling. And it is well connected with the city to all major parts of the country. There are several trains from other cities. One can hire private cabs or taxis from the station to reach mahananda wildlife sanctuary.

By Air: The nearest airport to Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is Bagdogra. This airport is connected by all famous airports from all over India. It is at the distance of 13 km between Bagdogra and Siliguri.

Tips for Travellers

Research your destination thoroughly to understand the climate, local customs, and any specific requirements.
Create an itinerary with a balance of activities, sightseeing, and relaxation time.
Pack appropriate clothing and footwear based on the weather and activities. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid kit, and any necessary medications.
Keep important documents (passport, visas, etc.) secure and make copies.
Download maps and navigation apps for offline use. Use travel apps to find restaurants, attractions, and transportation options.
Respect the environment by avoiding single-use plastics and disposing of waste responsibly. Choose eco-friendly accommodation and transportation options when possible.

FAQ

Que: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes it’s safe to visit this place.

Que: When was Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary launched?

Ans: In 1955, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary was started as a game sanctuary. Later, in 1959, it acquired the status of a sanctuary.

Que: How many watch towers are there in Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: Gulma, Latlong, Toribari, Sukna and Golaghat are the watchtowers of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Each of these watchtowers has its own importance, as far as sightings and animal spotting are concerned.