Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It spans the lower catchment area of the Mahananda River and is situated between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers. It was established in 1959 to provide a natural habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in Siliguri, West Bengal. It is located in close proximity to the towns of Siliguri and Darjeeling.
The ideal time to visit the sanctuary is from October to May. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and it is also the best time for wildlife spotting. The sanctuary may be closed during the monsoon months due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animals including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephants, barking deer, sambar deer, spotted deer, leopards, and several species of birds and reptiles.
Yes, the sanctuary offers several trekking trails for nature enthusiasts. The Latpanchar trek is one of the popular trails, which leads to the highest point of the sanctuary, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The entry fees for Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary may vary for Indians and foreigners, and there could be additional charges for vehicles, cameras, and guided tours. The sanctuary is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, it is advisable to check with the West Bengal Forest Department for the latest information on fees and timings before planning your visit.
While there are no accommodation facilities within the sanctuary itself, there are forest rest houses and lodges at Sukna, Latpanchar, and Gulma where visitors can stay. For more options, visitors can look for hotels or resorts in the nearby town of Siliguri.
Visitors generally need to obtain an entry permit to visit the sanctuary. It is advisable to contact the West Bengal Forest Department or the sanctuary office for information on obtaining the necessary permissions and for guidelines on visiting.
Yes, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers. It supports a rich avian diversity, making it a popular spot for birding. Species like the Rufous-Necked Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, Great Indian Hornbill, and many others can be sighted here.
Tourists are expected to follow certain guidelines to ensure the protection of wildlife and their habitat. These include not littering, minimizing noise pollution, not feeding or disturbing the animals, and adhering to designated safari routes and timings. Photography is allowed, but at times may require additional permits, particularly for professional shoots.
