Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in West Bengal You Must Visit

The state of West Bengal is blessed with rich natural diversity that ranges from the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans to the rolling hills of Darjeeling. This varied landscape makes it an amazing destination for wildlife lovers, photographers and eco-tourists. The wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal offer you unique experience to encounter rare species and diverse ecosystems, whether you are a birdwatcher, nature photographer or simply someone who is looking to escape into the wild.

This highly informative blog will take you to the top 10 most visited wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal with habitats that range from coastal wetlands to Himalayan foothills. These sanctuaries are home to countless birds, mammals, and reptiles, many of which are endemic or endangered. If you are planning a trip to the eastern part of India, exploring these green pockets should definitely be on your itinerary.

1. Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary

Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a small but charming reserve, perfect for a short nature escape. It is situated near Shantiniketan in the Birbhum district, making it a very popular weekend gateway for people living in Kolkata and nearby areas. It is especially famous for its population of blackbuck (Indian antelope) and a variety of migratory birds that flock here during the winter months, turning the sanctuary into a vibrant birdwatching hub.

The sanctuary also features three large water bodies (jheels) that attract herons, egrets, teals, and other wetland species, creating a perfect ecosystem for aquatic life. Its calm environment and scenic trails provide the ideal backdrop for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic in nature. Unlike the dense and sometimes intimidating forests of the north, Ballavpur is very accessible and family-friendly. The Deer Park located here is a major attraction, allowing visitors to see spotted deer in their natural habitat close up.

2. Bibhuti Bhusan Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is situated in the North 24 Parganas district, famously known as Parmadan Forest among the locals. It spans over 61 hectares and is primarily famous for its rich avian population and spotted deer (Chital). Named after the famous Bengali writer Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, this sanctuary holds a special place in the hearts of literature and nature lovers alike. The lush greenery and the quiet atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and recharge.

Visitors can explore the forest on foot or enjoy a soothing boat ride along the Ichhamati River which flows right through the sanctuary. This river ride is often the highlight of the trip, offering a chance to spot monkeys playing on the banks and kingfishers diving for food. It is a popular destination for family day outings and school trips as one of the more accessible wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal. There is also a small zoo and a children’s park within the premises, making it an excellent location for educational tours for young students.

Also Read: 11 Coldest Place in South India You Must Visit in 2026

3. Buxa Wildlife Sanctuary

It spans over 760 square kilometres and lies in the Alipurduar district, sharing borders with Bhutan. This wildlife sanctuary is truly a paradise for wildlife lovers as it offers beautiful and breathtaking views of elephants, tigers, leopards, and a colourful assortment of birds and butterflies. Buxa is often called the “Tiger Reserve” and serves as an international corridor for elephant migration between India and Bhutan, making it ecologically very significant.

This sanctuary is also known for Buxa Fort, which is a historic site that offers you panoramic views of the forest and the surrounding mountains. The trek to the fort is an adventure in itself, taking you through dense forests and small streams. Dense vegetation and misty hills make this sanctuary a dream destination for wildlife photographers and trekkers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Dooars region. Apart from the big mammals, the sanctuary is home to many rare orchids and medicinal plants, adding to its rich biodiversity.

4. West Sundarban Wildlife Sanctuary

This protected area complements the larger Sundarban ecosystem, extending its habitat and biodiversity further into the South 24 Parganas district. This area is an important site for the conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger and it also supports other species like estuarine crocodiles, fishing cats, and the endangered Gangetic river dolphins. It acts as a buffer zone, protecting the core areas while allowing tourists to experience the mangrove magic safely.

The distinctive mangrove terrain here sustains a rich variety of aquatic life, including crabs, mudskippers, and various fish species that are vital to the local economy. Among the wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal, this one stands out for its connection to the world’s largest delta and UNESCO heritage site. The boat safaris here are thrilling, as the narrow creeks often lead to unexpected sightings of wild boars or spotted deer drinking water at the river banks. It is a place where land and water merge to create a landscape unlike anywhere else on earth.

5. Sundarbans National Park

While technically a national park, Sundarbans is a critical inclusion on any list of wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal due to its size, ecological importance, and iconic wildlife. This is the biggest home of the Royal Bengal Tiger in the world and the only mangrove forest where tigers are found. The park is a maze of islands and rivers, creating a mysterious and thrilling atmosphere for anyone who visits.

The intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands creates a unique ecosystem that changes with the tides. Visitors can explore it by boat, offering a rare chance to spot tigers swimming across channels or crocodiles sunbathing on the muddy banks. Besides the famous tiger, the park is also home to the King Cobra, water monitor lizards, and the Olive Ridley turtle. The watchtowers at Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, and Dobanki offer safe vantage points to observe wildlife in this dense and difficult terrain.

Also Read: 7 Places to visit in Sundarbans National Park in 2026

6. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary

Mahananda Sanctuary is spread between the Mahananda and Teesta rivers and it offers you a rich and diverse natural habitat to explore near Siliguri. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and serves as a crucial elephant corridor. It is home to elephants, bison (Indian Gaur), Himalayan serow, and various species of deer and primates like the Rhesus monkey. The elevation varies greatly here, which allows for a wide variety of vegetation from riverine forests to higher altitude dense woods.

The sanctuary also attracts birdwatchers, thanks to its impressive list of avifauna including the pied hornbill, great Indian horned owl, and swiftlets. Mahananda’s lush green setting and gentle trails make it an inviting place for trekking and nature study. A popular spot within the sanctuary is Latpanchar, which is famous for being a nesting ground for the rare Rufous-necked Hornbill. If you love driving through forests, the road passing through this sanctuary offers a scenic and refreshing drive.

7. Gorumara National Park

Gorumara, though a national park, functions much like other wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal and is famous for its healthy population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. It is located in the Jalpaiguri district in the Dooars region and offers well-organised jeep safaris and watchtowers like Jatraprasad and Rhino Observation Point. These towers are strategically placed near salt licks and water bodies to ensure high chances of animal sightings for tourists.

The grasslands and riverine forests of this national park also support elephants, gaur, sloth bears, and many species of deer like the barking deer and sambar. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-September) to allow the forest to regenerate. Staying in the forest bungalows inside or near the park adds to the thrill, as you can often hear the calls of wild animals at night. Cultural programs performed by local tribal communities in the evenings are also a highlight for visitors.

8. Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary

It supports the healthy functioning of the Sundarbans biosphere and is located on an island at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Saptamukhi River. It hosts a wide range of wildlife including spotted deer, wild boars, jungle cats, and several species of birds and reptiles. Because it is surrounded by water on all sides, the ecosystem here is very sensitive and pristine, mostly untouched by heavy human interference.

The mangrove vegetation here plays a key role in coastal protection and biodiversity support, acting as a natural barrier against cyclones. As one of the lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal, it offers solitude and untouched beauty for serious explorers and researchers. Visiting here requires permission and a boat ride, making it an adventure for those who want to go off the beaten path. It is also a great place to spot sea turtles and various species of crabs along the shoreline.

9. Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary

Located near Darjeeling, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the oldest protected areas in India, established way back in 1915. This protected area is very famous for its high-altitude forests consisting of oak, pine, and rhododendron trees, and it also functions as a key catchment zone for Senchal Lake, supplying drinking water to the entire town of Darjeeling. The misty environment and cold climate give this sanctuary a mystical vibe.

Species such as the Himalayan black bear, leopard, wild boar, and barking deer inhabit this sanctuary. It’s also a fantastic location for birdwatching, offering sightings of rare Himalayan pheasants, sunbirds, and flycatchers. Cycling enthusiasts often take the route through the sanctuary for an exhilarating ride. Since it is close to Tiger Hill, you can combine a sunrise view over Kanchenjunga with a morning safari or trek through this beautiful forest.

10. Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary

Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary was established primarily to preserve a portion of the central Gangetic alluvial zone in the Nadia district. Though smaller in size compared to others, the sanctuary is densely packed with biodiversity. It is home to a significant population of spotted deer (Chital), along with langurs, jackals, porcupines, and several snake species like the python and krait. The forest is dominated by Shal, Teak, and Arjun trees.

With its thick forests and tranquil walking paths, this sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat into nature for locals and tourists alike. There is a nature interpretation centre here that provides valuable information about the local flora and fauna. Its strategic location on NH-34 and strong transport links make it one of the top wildlife destinations in West Bengal for a quick day trip. It is a great place for photographers who want to capture deer in a natural setting without travelling too far from Kolkata.

31 Jungle Tours: Discover the Top Wildlife Sanctuaries in West Bengal

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31 Jungle Tours ensures that each journey leaves you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, whether it is a river cruise through the Sundarbans or a mountain trek in Darjeeling’s forest trails.

Conclusion

West Bengal offers an astonishing variety of landscapes and ecosystems from dense mangroves and wetlands to rolling hills and riverine grasslands. The wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal not only protect countless species but also offer unique and thrilling experiences for travellers seeking to reconnect with nature. These green spaces are vital for our environment and offer us a chance to breathe fresh air and see animals in their true home.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuaries in West Bengal