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.

1. Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary

Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a small but charming reserve, perfect for a short nature escape. It is especially famous for its population of blackbuck and a variety of migratory birds during the winter months.

The sanctuary also features water bodies that attract herons, egrets, and other wetland species. Its calm environment and scenic trails provide the ideal backdrop for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic in nature.

2. Bibhuti Bhusan Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is situated in the North 24 Parganas district. It spans over 61 hectares and is primarily famous for its rich avian population and spotted deer.

Visitors can explore the forest on foot or enjoy a boat ride along the Ichhamati River. It is a popular destination for family day outings and school trips as one of the more accessible wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal.

Also Read: 11 Coldest Place in South India You Must Visit in 2025

3. Buxa Wildlife Sanctuary

It spans over 760 square kilometres. 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.

This sanctuary is also known for Buxa Fort which is a historic site that offers you panoramic views of the forest. Dense vegetation and misty hills make this sanctuary a dream destination for wildlife photographers and trekkers.

4. West Sundarban Wildlife Sanctuary

This protected area complements the Sundarban ecosystem, extending its habitat and biodiversity. 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 river dolphins.

The distinctive mangrove terrain here sustains a rich variety of aquatic life. Among the wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal, this one stands out for its connection to the world’s largest delta and UNESCO heritage site.

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.

The intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats and small islands creates a unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore it by boat, offering a rare chance to spot tigers swimming or crocodiles sunbathing on the banks.

Also Read: 7 Places to visit in Sundarbans National Park in 2025

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. It is home to elephants, bison, Himalayan serow and various species of deer and primates.

The sanctuary also attracts birdwatchers, thanks to its impressive list of avifauna including the pied hornbill and great Indian horned owl. Mahananda’s lush green setting and gentle trails make it an inviting place for trekking and nature study.

7. Gorumara National Park

Gorumara, though a national park, functions much like other wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal and is famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. It is located in the Jalpaiguri district and offers well-organised jeep safaris and watchtowers.

The grasslands and riverine forests of this national park also support elephants, gaur and many species of deer.

8. Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary

It supports the healthy functioning of the Sundarbans biosphere. It hosts a wide range of wildlife including spotted deer, wild boars, jungle cats and several species of birds and reptiles.

The mangrove vegetation here plays a key role in coastal protection and biodiversity support. As one of the lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal, it offers solitude and untouched beauty for serious explorers.

9. Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary

Located near Darjeeling, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the oldest protected areas in India. This protected area is very famous for its high altitude forests and it also functions as a key catchment zone for Senchal Lake, supplying water to Darjeeling.

Species such as the Himalayan black bear, leopard, and barking deer inhabit this sanctuary. It’s also a fantastic location for birdwatching, offering sightings of rare Himalayan pheasants and flycatchers.

10. Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary

Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary was established primarily to preserve a portion of the central Gangetic alluvial zone. The sanctuary is home to spotted deer, langurs, jackals and several snake species.

With its thick forests and tranquil walking paths, this sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Its strategic location and strong transport links make it one of the top wildlife destinations in West Bengal.

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

If you are looking to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal, trust 31 Jungle Tours to curate your perfect experience. We specialise in making nature accessible, educational and exciting by providing expert local guides to custom itineraries that fit your style of travel.

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.

For a well-planned and sustainable wildlife adventure, choose 31 Jungle Tours as your guide. Visit 31jungletours.com today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuaries in West Bengal