It is one of India’s gems in the crown of the Terai state of Uttar Pradesh, a true wilderness. Dudhwa National Park is a wonderful destination where you can spend a couple of days, in the background of Nepal, and have a great opportunity to see the tigers, one-horned rhinos and birds. The wildlife safaris offered in Dudhwa are done in the most preserved Tiger Reserve in India, surrounded by Sal forest, meadows and the Sharda River. If you are a nature lover, then Dudhwa National Park is the place for you.
Dudhwa National Park Location and Overview
Dudhwa National Park is situated in Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, adjoining Nepal. This Tiger Reserve has an area of 490 sq. km with a wide variety of habitats of grassland, sal forest, wetlands, rivers, etc., where animals have ample drinking water in the form of rivers of Sharda and its branches. Another tourist attraction in Dudhwa is its distinct Terai ecosystem, where a vast number of flora and fauna species are found. Savour the splendour of sprawling grasslands dotted with dense jungles and experience the serenity and tranquillity of nature’s wonderland. A jewel in the Northern part of India is a ‘green corridor’ along the Himalayas, which protects some of the rarest wildlife of the country.
How to reach Dudhwa National Park
Lucknow is the nearest airport, which is 220 kms away from the park. The park is well linked to all major cities. The railway station is located nearest to Dudhwa, which is 4 Kms away from the forest and Palia Kalan, which is 10 Kms away from the forest. Road connectivity to Dudhwa National Park is also available from Lucknow and Bareilly. The Taxis and Cabs can be booked conveniently at all these locations. The drive through the countryside through sugarcane fields and a number of villages is simply delightful. This is a fascinating place, truly like an undiscovered gem, to be discovered with soothing comfort.
Safari Timings and Seasons
The safari in Dudhwa National Park will begin around 6:30 am and end at 10:30 am. The same goes for the afternoon safari, which takes place from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM (until the end of the day), depending on the season. November-June is the best time to visit Dudhwa on a wildlife tour. The park closes during the monsoon season (July to October). Kindly book an entry to the forest in advance, especially during winter, as there are limited entries and only first-come, first-served. A clock in all natural senses, Dudhwa National Park offers most opportunities to see wildlife throughout the early morning and late afternoon.
Safari Zones
Dudhwa National Park has several safari zones, namely: Dudhwa, Kishanpur, Katarniaghat and Sathiana. There are healthy populations of one-horned rhinos and swamp deer at Kishanpur, and the park’s elusive tigers can be seen only at Dudhwa. The best area to see crocodiles and gharials is at Katarniaghat. Depending on what you want to see, you can choose the type of safari you want to go on, such as a tiger safari, a birdwatching safari or a rhino safari. Each of the forest safaris offers unique and special experiences in its respective forest safari area. As the many stories the forest can tell, the different forest safari zones in Dudhwa National Park have their own distinct new and exciting experiences that any forest lover will enjoy.
The Bengal Tiger of Dudhwa
Dudhwa is known for its healthy tiger population, and they roam freely. The chances of spotting the stripes are the best in Dudhwa, where big cats are on the prowl at the crack of dawn. This tiger reserve is regarded as one of the important tiger conservation areas for the conservation of the tiger species in the country. The long grasses and heavy brush afford cover for stalking the victim. When visiting the jungle, be sure to look closely at the pug marks and listen for an alarm call from the jungle birds if you wish to see the tiger. Get an adrenaline rush of seeing the mysterious king of the forest, making it even more exciting to visit Dudhwa National Park.
One-Horned Rhino and Swamp Deer
Previously, people could have had their cake and eaten it too at the Dudhwa, but that’s not the case today. One-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) are found in this national park, which is the only place in northern India to see them. These interesting animals are guaranteed to be seen in Kishanpur. The beautiful swamp deer or barasingha is the other wildlife star attraction of Dudhwa. Barasinghas are commonly seen in open meadows in Dudhwa, where the maximum number of barasinghas can be seen in the world. See these rare and adorable forest creatures while on a visit to Dudhwa National Park.
Other Wildlife and Birdlife
Apart from the Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos and barasinghas, one can see a variety of other animals and birds in Dudhwa. Other interesting animals that can be found in this incredible national park include leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants and crocodiles. Dudhwa is a bird lover’s paradise, home to 400+ species of avifauna which reside and migrate here. From beautiful to endangered, the Bengal florican and the lovely hornbill you will be amazed by the different species of birds you can see in Dudhwa National Park. Experience the delightful wildlife and birdwatching experience in the best tiger reserve in India.
Safari Tips for Visitors
So, here are a few travel tips to consider when planning to visit the Dudhwa National Park. The first one is booking your safari and lodging in advance. Second, dress in neutral-coloured clothes and take along a good pair of binoculars. Last but not least, follow the instructions provided by forest rangers to have a safe and good safari. Another helpful tip is to always rely on guides who are experienced and knowledgeable about the local and jungle areas. You should also carry along water, some healthy snacks and an insect repellent. Remember to maintain silence so as not to disturb the animals, for the best wildlife spotting experience.
Why go to Dudhwa National Park for a safari?
Dudhwa is a remarkable wilderness experience in comparison with other National parks in India. A visit to Dudhwa National Park is always memorable because you can enjoy the sighting of the beautiful Bengal tiger, one-horned rhino and various rare bird species in nature. Dudhwa boasts a stunning landscape and will mesmerise you. The safari enthusiast will never forget a visit to this park.
