Nandhaur area is located in Uttarakhand, with the rivers Gola and Sharda on the west and east sides respectively, and the Nandhaur river intersecting them.
Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary
Nandhaur wildlife sanctuary was created in 2012. It is a part of Terai Arc Landscape, which extends from Uttarakhand in India to Nepal. Nandhaur opened to wildlife tourism in 2015. It is one of the youngest wildlife sanctuaries in the country. It has a wide range of flora and fauna, with dense forests. It was recommended as the third tiger reserve in the state by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
Flora and Fauna
It is a visual feast for nature lovers, as it has a wide variety of shrubs, different species of fishes, reptiles, climbers, and birds. The sanctuary has a 200 years old tree, which is termed as the king of trees by the forest department. Bird watchers can expect a wide range of birds like darters, jungle fowls, Brahminy ducks, pintails, Great Indian horned owl, and red jungle fowls.
Wildlife in the sanctuary
If one wants to make most of their time in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, it is recommended to reach the place early in the morning. As said by the forest guards, it is not for travelers who expect to immediately spot the tiger or any wildlife. You need to be patient enough to have a surprise visit of the wild cats and other wildlife. Also, do not expect a luxurious stay. Expect less and experience more and be thrilled with the wildlife and enjoy the thick woods situated in the sanctuary and nature.
Rest House
Nandhaur forest rest house is a graceful building situated on the lush grounds and is the first thing you come across when you enter the sanctuary. There is a caretaker available and you can have a cup of tea to relax before you start your journey into the woods. Suites and tents are available for a comfortable stay at reasonable prices. People who cannot stay in the sanctuary can always opt to stay in Haldwani and make the visit to the sanctuary, a day trip. If one wants to eat here, they need to inform the staff in advance.
Entrance to the Sanctuary – Chor Galiya is the only gate available now, for entrance. It is situated 32 km away from Haldwani, which is the nearest city to Nandhaur Sanctuary. Pay the entry fee for a permit from the SDO, forest department at Haldwani. The roads are bumpy and rocky and hence require an SUV or a sturdy jeep for safety. You can hire vehicles ate Haldwani. There are several routes that pass through Suryabeni Temple, Machchli Van and Jaulasal. All the paths pass through the thick sal forests.
Entry fee: 100 rupees
Vehicle: 250 rupees
How to Reach – The nearest railway station to Haldwani is Kathgodam railway station and the nearest airport is Pantnagar Civil aerodrome.
Timings: 8 AM-Noon & 2 PM – 5 PM
When to Visit – Winters are the most comfortable for visiting the Nandhaur sanctuary. It is usually open from October to June. Though the nights are usually chilly, nature lovers can really enjoy the climate.
Hi…I am Vaibhav Tiwari, people love to call me VT or Vicky. Born and brought up in the city of Nawabs, Lucknow but I like the old name of Lucknow i.e. Awadh. I love to travel, exploring new places, and meeting new people and not to forget tasting mouth-watering local cuisines which you just can’t miss.
Although, not all get the chance to live their dream or passion, so it happened with me too. Being the guy from 80s, where everybody is pushed to studies to become Engineer, Doctor, and most important anyhow crack the govt. exam and get the job, then “Life set hai boss”.