Dajipur Bison Sanctuary

About Dajipur Bison Sanctuary

Dajipur Bison Sanctuary, also known as Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, India. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 55 square kilometers and was established in 1958 to protect the Indian Bison, locally known as Gaur. The sanctuary is nestled in the lush Western Ghats and is home to a variety of flora and fauna making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Location and Geographical Overview

Dajipur Bison Sanctuary is located in the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests, gushing rivers, and picturesque valleys. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and pristine natural beauty.

Opening and Closing Time

The Dajipur Bison Sanctuary is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee

The entry fee for Dajipur Bison Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals.

Species-Flora/Fauna Availability

The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna including the Indian Bison, Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, and a diverse range of bird species. The dense forests of the sanctuary are filled with towering trees, colorful flowers, and exotic plant species.

Activities Performed

Visitors to Dajipur Bison Sanctuary can indulge in a range of activities including nature walks, bird watching, jungle safaris, and camping. The sanctuary offers a tranquil environment for visitors to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Western Ghats.

Jeep Safari Charges

The charges for a jeep safari at Dajipur Bison Sanctuary are INR 1500 for a group of up to 6 people. The safari takes visitors through the dense forests of the sanctuary where they can spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Age Criterion and Entry Fee

The entry fee for Dajipur Bison Sanctuary is INR 50 for adults, INR 25 for children between the ages of 5-12 years, and free for children below 5 years. Senior citizens above the age of 65 can avail a discount and enter the sanctuary for INR 25.

Senior Citizen Facilities

Dajipur Bison Sanctuary provides facilities for senior citizens including designated seating areas, restrooms, and easy access to the safari vehicles. The sanctuary staff are trained to assist elderly visitors and ensure their comfort and safety during their visit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dajipur Bison Sanctuary is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. This time of the year is ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities in the sanctuary.

Nearby Places to Visit

Some of the nearby attractions to Dajipur Bison Sanctuary include Radhanagari Dam, Pratapgarh Fort, and Panhala Fort. These historical and natural sites offer visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage and scenic beauty of the Kolhapur district.

Vehicle Parking Facility

Dajipur Bison Sanctuary provides ample parking facilities for visitors at the entrance to the sanctuary. Visitors can safely park their cars and motorcycles before embarking on their wildlife adventure in the sanctuary.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors to Dajipur Bison Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the ecological balance of the sanctuary. Some of the rules include maintaining silence, not feeding animals, and not littering the sanctuary premises.

How to Reach and Other Related Information

Dajipur Bison Sanctuary can be reached by road from Kolhapur city which is approximately 70 kilometers away. The nearest airport is in Pune, around 230 kilometers from the sanctuary. Visitors can also take a train to Kolhapur and then hire a taxi or private vehicle to reach the sanctuary. Accommodation options are available in and around the sanctuary for visitors looking to stay overnight and experience the tranquility of the Western Ghats.