Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Darjeeling, West Bengal, is a favourite destination for wildlife and nature lovers. Spread over 160 square km, the sanctuary is home to many endangered animals and plants.
Some of the animals and plants of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary has trees like Shal, Teak, Bamboo, various types of Orchids and medicinal plants. There are animals like Asian elephants, Indian bison, leopards, deer, barking deer, wild boar, bear etc. Also, more than 250 bird species can be seen in this sanctuary. Also, many endangered birds and migratory birds can be seen here
Sanctuary tour
Nature lovers and those who love adventure can visit this sanctuary. Trekking through the forest will be a great experience. Nearby waterfalls and nearby are Suntalekhola and Mongpu. These places are one of the tourist centres. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary has a temple on the Deurali hill. From here you can see the tea gardens and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. This sanctuary is an ideal place for jungle safari and bird watching. Jeep safaris are conducted through this forest
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary Time Schedule
The gate opens at 6 am to enter this sanctuary. The gate closes at 5 pm. The chances of seeing wildlife are highest in the early morning and evening hours, so if you try to do the first jeep safari, it will be very crowded.
If you do a jeep safari in this sanctuary, you will have the highest chance of seeing animals like barking deer, leopards, bison, peacocks, etc. Also, more than 250 species of birds can be seen here, some of which are endangered. The ideal time for bird watching is early morning.
Some important things
- The sanctuary trip should be planned in such a way that one can enter the forest early in the morning and evening.
- All rules should be followed and one should stay away from wild animals.
- It is better to try not to feed any outside food to the animals
- It is also better not to enter the forest with plastic items like plastic bottles, carry packets, etc.
- Adequate water, some food and insect repellent should be carried.
- The experience will be better if you carry binoculars and a camera.
Where to stay in Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Many homestays and hotels around this sanctuary are located in the Darjeeling district. Several homestays are very close to nature. The experience you will have while staying at a homestay here is, in a word, impeccable.
Activities in Homestays
Spending time in nature: You can spend a few days in nature at this homestay. The hustle and bustle of city life is not here, instead, there is the sound of birds and wild animals all day long. The sanctuary’s natural beauty inspires your body and mind with new energy.
Hospitality of the homestays: Like other hill homestays, you will also get very good treatment and hospitality in the homestays here. You can meet the local people explore their lifestyle and get involved in their daily lives.
Seeing and being close to wildlife
The homestay owner will help you see and get up close to wildlife. You will also find some pet elephants that are used for elephant safaris.
Mahananda Wildlife Safari Booking
Here, you have to book a car in advance at the gate where the safari starts. You can also go on foot and trekking. Of course, an experienced guide is required for this. Otherwise, there may be a possibility of danger. Those who love to travel and take pictures in harmony with nature should choose the second route.
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