The Hastinapur Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. It covers an area of approximately 2073 square kilometers and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is named after the ancient city of Hastinapur, which is believed to be the capital of the Kuru Kingdom in Indian mythology.
The Hastinapur Sanctuary is situated along the Ganga River and spans across the districts of Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, and Amroha. The sanctuary is characterized by a mix of riverine forests, grasslands, and wetlands, making it a haven for a variety of wildlife species.
The Hastinapur Sanctuary is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset on all days of the week.
There is no entry fee for visiting the Hastinapur Sanctuary. However, visitors may have to pay for certain activities such as jeep safaris.
The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Some of the prominent wildlife species found in the Hastinapur Sanctuary include elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and various species of birds. The sanctuary also boasts of a rich variety of plant species such as sal, teak, and bamboo.
Visitors to the Hastinapur Sanctuary can indulge in activities such as bird watching, nature walks, and jeep safaris to explore the wildlife in the sanctuary. The sanctuary also offers camping facilities for those who wish to spend the night in the midst of nature.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Hastinapur Sanctuary may vary depending on the duration and number of participants. It is advisable to check with the sanctuary authorities for the latest rates.
There is no specific age criterion for visiting the Hastinapur Sanctuary. Visitors of all ages are welcome to explore the sanctuary. However, children below a certain age may require adult supervision. As mentioned earlier, there is no entry fee for visiting the sanctuary.
The Hastinapur Sanctuary provides special facilities for senior citizens, such as designated rest areas and easy access to certain parts of the sanctuary. Senior citizens can also avail of discounted rates for certain activities.
The best time to visit the Hastinapur Sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is more active. However, the sanctuary remains open throughout the year, and each season has its own charm.
Some of the nearby attractions to the Hastinapur Sanctuary include the Hastinapur Wildlife Safari Park, the Ganga Ghat in Haridwar, and the Bijnor Bird Sanctuary. Visitors can also explore the historical city of Meerut and its various monuments and temples.
The Hastinapur Sanctuary offers ample parking space for visitors who wish to drive to the sanctuary. There are designated parking areas near the entrance of the sanctuary where visitors can safely park their vehicles.
Visitors to the Hastinapur Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the environment. Some of the key guidelines include not littering, not feeding the animals, and following the instructions of the sanctuary staff. It is also advised to maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and to avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
The Hastinapur Sanctuary is well-connected by road and can be easily reached from major cities such as Delhi, Meerut, and Haridwar. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, located approximately 130 kilometers away. The sanctuary is also accessible by rail, with the nearest railway station being in Meerut. For accommodation, visitors can choose from a range of hotels and resorts in and around Meerut. It is advisable to check the weather conditions and other related information before planning a visit to the sanctuary.