Weather: 11°C - 26°C
Category: Wildlife Sanctuary
Tags: Wildlife, Nature, Eco-tourism
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Jeep Safari: INR 300 onwards
Time Required: 3-4 hrs
Overview of Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the heart of Mount Abu, the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary offers an enchanting escape into nature. Known for its rich biodiversity, this sanctuary is a treasure trove of rare flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Established in 1960, the sanctuary spans an impressive 288 square kilometers, covering mountains ranging from 300 meters to the Gurashikhar peak (the highest point in the Aravalli Range at 1722 meters).
This sanctuary is not just a haven for wildlife but also a perfect spot for sightseeing, with panoramic views that take your breath away. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a peace lover, this sanctuary provides an unforgettable experience.
Flora and Fauna at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
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Flora: The sanctuary is rich in diverse vegetation, from sub-tropical thorn forests in the foothills to evergreen forests across the valleys. You’ll find over 81 tree species, including rare wild orchids, wild roses, and medicinal plants. Notably, the sanctuary is home to vast bamboo forests in its southwestern parts.
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Fauna: The sanctuary is renowned for housing rare and endangered species. Keep an eye out for elusive creatures like the hyena, jackals, sloth bears, and even wild boars. The sanctuary also shelters over 250 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Other wildlife include the jungle cat, Indian hare, and Indian fox.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter season (from October to March). The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for trekking and exploring the sanctuary’s many trails. Summer can be a bit too hot, while the monsoon season brings occasional rains, which may affect your outdoor activities.
Things to Do at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
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Jeep Safari: To experience the sanctuary's wildlife in their natural habitat, consider taking a Jeep safari. The safari costs around INR 300 onwards and provides an exciting way to explore the dense forest and spot wild animals.
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Birdwatching: With over 250 species of birds, the sanctuary is a must-visit for birdwatchers. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot a variety of avian species.
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Trekking & Nature Walks: Explore the scenic beauty of the sanctuary through its well-marked trekking trails. The Gurashikhar peak, which is the highest point, offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
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Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for the unique species of animals, including the sloth bear and common langur. The sanctuary offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
How to Reach Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Road: The sanctuary is easily accessible from Mount Abu, and local transportation options such as taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available. If you’re coming from other parts of Rajasthan, you can hire a cab or private car to reach the sanctuary.
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By Train: The nearest railway station is Abu Road Railway Station, located about 28 kilometers from the sanctuary. From there, you can take a taxi to reach the wildlife sanctuary.
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By Air: The nearest airport is in Udaipur, about 165 kilometers away. From Udaipur, you can hire a taxi to reach Mount Abu and then proceed to the sanctuary.
Travel Tips
- Don’t feed the animals: Interfering with the animals' diets can cause harm to their health.
- Carry comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and trekking in the sanctuary.
- Avoid plastic: The sanctuary has a strict policy against plastic, so make sure to carry eco-friendly alternatives.
- Respect nature: Help preserve the sanctuary by keeping the surroundings clean and pollution-free.