Are you a nature lover? Do you want to explore the wilderness of India? If yes, then Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place for you. Located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary is nestled amidst the Sahyadri Range and is blessed with abundant flora and fauna. In this article, we will delve into the details of this pristine sanctuary and explore the wonders that it beholds.
Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary: A Brief Overview
Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a stunning expanse of natural beauty that covers 120 square kilometers and was established in the year 1958. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species including bison, wild boar, sambar, leopard, barking deer, mouse deer, Indian giant squirrel, and many more. The lush green forest cover of the sanctuary is mainly dominated by teak and bamboo trees. The serene ambience of the sanctuary coupled with the chirping of birds and the gurgling sound of the river make it an ideal place for nature lovers.
Flora and Fauna of Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of a rich and diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to more than 300 species of plants, including teak, bamboo, silver oak, and mango trees. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of animals such as bison, wild boar, sambar, leopard, barking deer, mouse deer, Indian giant squirrel, and many more. Apart from these, the sanctuary is also home to a variety of birds such as the crested serpent eagle, Malabar whistling thrush, grey hornbill, and many more.
How to Reach Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road. The sanctuary is located at a distance of 474 km from Mumbai and 141 km from Kolhapur. The nearest airport is the Pune International Airport, which is located at a distance of 240 km from the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is Kolhapur Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 81 km from the sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to February when the weather is pleasant, and the animals come out to graze in the open grasslands. The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit as the sanctuary is at its greenest during this time. However, the sanctuary remains closed during the monsoon season.
Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary Timing
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Visitors can enter the sanctuary during these hours and explore the beautiful forest. It is important to note that the sanctuary is closed during the monsoon season, which starts from June and lasts until September. During this time, the sanctuary is prone to heavy rainfall and flooding, which can make it unsafe for visitors.
Accommodation Options in Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary has several accommodation options to choose from. The Forest Department of Maharashtra provides accommodation in the form of tents, dormitories, and rest houses. The tents and dormitories are basic but comfortable and provide a unique camping experience. The rest houses are more luxurious and offer a comfortable stay.
Attractions in Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary has a plethora of attractions to offer to its visitors. Here are some of them.
1. Bison Safari
The Bison Safari is the major attraction of the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. The safari takes you through the lush green forests of the sanctuary where you can spot herds of bison grazing in the open grasslands.
2. Trekking
The sanctuary is blessed with several trekking trails that take you through the thick forests and uphill slopes. Trekking in the sanctuary is a great way to explore the wilderness and get close to nature.
3. Bird Watching
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a bird watcher's paradise. The sanctuary is home to a variety of birds, including the Malabar whistling thrush, grey hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and many more.
4. Camping
Camping in the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a great way to experience the wilderness. The sanctuary has several camping sites where you can pitch your tent and spend the night under the starry sky.
5. Wildlife Photography
The Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary provides ample opportunities for wildlife photography. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, and you can capture them in their natural habitat.
FAQs about Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary
Q. Is it safe to visit Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. Yes, it is safe to visit Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is well maintained, and the Forest Department ensures the safety of the visitors.
Q. How much time does it take to explore the sanctuary?
A. It takes about 3-4 hours to explore the sanctuary. However, if you plan to trek or camp, you can spend more time in the sanctuary.
Q. Is photography allowed in the sanctuary?
A. Yes, photography is allowed in the sanctuary. However, you need to take prior permission from the Forest Department.
Q. What is the entry fee for the sanctuary?
A. The entry fee for Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indians and INR 500 for foreign nationals.
Q. Can I take my own vehicle inside the sanctuary?
A. No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the sanctuary. You can take the forest department's vehicle or walk inside the sanctuary.
Q. What should I wear while visiting the sanctuary?
A. It is advisable to wear comfortable clothes and shoes while visiting the sanctuary. Avoid bright-colored clothes and wear clothes that blend with the surroundings.
Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place for all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary offers a unique and immersive experience in the lap of nature. With its diverse flora and fauna and a plethora of attractions, the sanctuary is sure to leave you spellbound. So, pack your bags and head to Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary for an experience of a lifetime.
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