"Explore diverse wildlife in serene natural beauty."
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful sanctuary located in Siliguri, West Bengal, India. It is spread over an area of 159 sq km and is known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary was established in 1955 and is named after the Mahananda River that flows through it. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, near the town of Siliguri in West Bengal. It is situated at an altitude of 600-1000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests and picturesque landscapes. The sanctuary is easily accessible by road and is a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm every day of the week, including weekends and holidays. It is recommended to visit the sanctuary during the early hours of the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
The entry fee for the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is ₹50 for Indian nationals and ₹200 for foreign nationals. Children below the age of 5 years can enter free of cost. There is also a separate fee for vehicles entering the sanctuary.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Some of the commonly found species include Indian bison, leopards, elephants, deer, various species of birds, butterflies, and reptiles. The sanctuary is also known for its rich plant diversity, with several species of trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants thriving in the area.
Visitors to the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy a range of activities, including nature walks, bird watching, wildlife spotting, photography, and camping. The sanctuary also offers jeep safaris for those looking to explore the area and spot wildlife up close.
The charges for a jeep safari at the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary are ₹300 per person for Indian nationals and ₹800 per person for foreign nationals. The safari duration is approximately 1-2 hours, during which visitors are accompanied by experienced guides who provide information about the flora and fauna of the sanctuary.
For entry into the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary, the age criterion is as follows: - Male: 5 years and above - Female: 5 years and above - Children: Below 5 years (entry free) The entry fee for Indian nationals is ₹50 and ₹200 for foreign nationals. Vehicle entry fees are charged separately.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary offers special facilities for senior citizens, including designated seating areas, easy access to walking trails, and assistance from park staff if required. Senior citizens can also avail of discounts on entry fees and safari charges upon showing valid identification.
The best time to visit the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is more active. The monsoon season, from July to September, is also a good time to visit as the sanctuary is lush and green during this time.
There are several nearby places to visit when in the vicinity of the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary, including the Kali Mandir, Coronation Bridge, Sevoke Kali Mandir, and the picturesque town of Mirik. Visitors can also explore the tea gardens and enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene Mirik Lake.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary has designated parking areas for visitors bringing their vehicles. There is ample parking space available, and park staff are present to assist visitors in finding a suitable parking spot. The parking fee is included in the vehicle entry fee.
Visitors to the Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary are advised to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and maintain the sanctity of the sanctuary. Some of the key rules include no littering, no feeding or disturbing the animals, no loud noises, and no smoking within the sanctuary premises.
The Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by road and can be easily reached from Siliguri by private or public transport. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is approximately 20 km away from the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction, which is about 25 km from the sanctuary. Accommodation options are available in Siliguri for those looking to stay overnight near the sanctuary.
