Top 8 Wildlife Sanctuary in Jharkhand You Must Visit

Jharkhand is also famous as the “Land of Forests.” It is home to some of India’s most diverse and beautiful wildlife sanctuaries. Each wildlife sanctuary in Jharkhand preserves rare animals, birds and plants which makes it a very important part of the ecological scenario of the country.

Visiting these sanctuaries is not just about spotting animals but it is also about connecting with nature in its purest form. The sound of birds, rustling of the leaves and flowing rivers creates a unique experience that city life can never offer you. If you are planning a short trip or a long vacation into nature, the wildlife sanctuary in Jharkhand gives you plenty of ways to experience its wildlife at your own pace.

1. Gautam Budha Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Koderma district, Gautam Budha Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Once a private hunting ground, this sanctuary now serves as a refuge for a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and chinkaras. Bird enthusiasts can spot exotic species like golden orioles, red-vented bulbuls, brahminy starlings, and eagles in their natural habitat.

The sanctuary’s serene forests and rolling hills offer breathtaking panoramic views, making it a popular destination for trekkers and photographers. Early morning walks here are particularly refreshing, as the tranquil atmosphere and the melody of birdsong create a perfect start to the day. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Gautam Budha Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique blend of both.

Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuary in Meghalaya You Must Explore

2. Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary

Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its lush green forests and scenic hilly terrain, is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animals, including foxes, leopards, sambars, barking deer, hyenas, and wild boars. It also attracts a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

What sets this sanctuary apart is its accessibility. Visitors can explore large parts of the sanctuary without the need for strenuous treks. Guided tours often include night walks, offering a rare opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures like civets and owls. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a casual traveler, Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary has something for everyone.

3. Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated about 25 kilometers from Giridih district, Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the sacred Parasnath Hill. This sanctuary is a blend of spirituality and natural beauty, with its dense green forests providing a safe haven for a variety of wildlife. Leopards, barking deer, jackals, hyenas, pythons, and Indian cobras are just a few of the species that call this sanctuary home.

The sanctuary is also a hotspot for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, thanks to its abundant population of birds and reptiles. The serene environment and the spiritual significance of Parasnath Hill make this sanctuary a unique destination for both nature lovers and pilgrims.

Also Read: Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh You Must Explore

4. Betla National Park

Betla National Park, located in the Chota Nagpur region, is one of Jharkhand’s largest and most renowned protected areas. The park’s diverse ecosystem, which includes the Gangetic plains, is home to several rare and endangered species. Elephants, leopards, hyenas, giant squirrels, and pangolins are just a few of the animals you can spot here.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species, including white-necked storks, crested serpent eagles, and pied hornbills. The park also offers excellent facilities for safaris, making it an ideal destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

5. Koderma Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in the Koderma district, Koderma Wildlife Sanctuary is a picturesque destination known for its hills, dense forests, and rich biodiversity. The sanctuary’s sal and mixed deciduous forests provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife spotting. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sanctuary from the hilltops, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, sloth bears, sambars, and spotted deer. Bird species like crested serpent eagles, Indian grey hornbills, and golden orioles add to the sanctuary’s charm. While the sanctuary is accessible year-round, it’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season when the area becomes marshy.

Also Read: Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand You Must Visit

6. Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary

Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chota Nagpur plateau region. This sanctuary was one of the first nine wildlife sanctuaries that were recognised as the tiger reserves under the Project Tiger. It covers rivers, hills and thick forests which makes this area one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in this state.

It shelters majestic tigers, leopards, elephants, barking deers, gaurs, sambhars, wolves, hyaenas, hornbills, serpent eagles, cotton teals, knob billed ducks, storks, wild dogs, sloth bears and forest owlets.

7. Udhwa Lake Wildlife Sanctuary

Udhwa Lake Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland paradise. It is located on the banks of river Ganga and also near two beautiful lakes Pataura and Berhale.

It is nothing short of a treasure trove for the birdwatchers as this wildlife sanctuary in Jharkhand shelters many native and migratory bird species that include gulls, jacanas, little grebes, darters, Indian rollers, swift swallows, mynas, pipits, bulbuls, drongos, parakeets, lapwings, egrets, herons, storks and hawks.

Also Read: Top 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Sikkim You Must Explore

8. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Jamshedpur city and it is famous for its significant population of Indian elephants. Apart from elephants, you can also spot species like Indian giant squirrels, sloth bears, barking deers, porcupines, pangolins, falcons, golden orioles, tree pies, paradise fly catchers and king cobras.

This sanctuary also provides you scenic viewpoints overlooking Jamshedpur and the surrounding hills. Early mornings are perfect for spotting animals and enjoying the relaxing sound of the forest.

31 Jungle Tours: Explore Jharkhand’s Wildlife with Us

To explore Jharkhand’s rich biodiversity fully, 31 Jungle Tours offers you one-of-its-kind guided trips to the top sanctuaries of Jharkhand. Our expert guides make sure you enjoy your vacation safely and with a thrilling and rewarding experience.

Our specially designed tours are customisable and also follow eco-friendly practices to help protect the forests and wildlife of India while giving travellers unforgettable memories. 

Conclusion

Jharkhand is a paradise of forests, rivers, hills and rich wildlife. Each wildlife sanctuary in Jharkhand has something special  to offer you, right from tigers and elephants to rare birds and peaceful lakes.

If you want to experience Jharkhand’s wilderness, 31 Jungle Tours is your perfect partner. Our expertise ensures that every wildlife sanctuary in Jharkhand you visit is safe, exciting and environmentally responsible. Book your trip today with 31 Jungle Tours and explore the wild beauty of Jharkhand like never before.