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Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
SataraRich Regional Flora and Fauna
Overview
Located about 2.5 hours’ drive from Satara in the Western Ghats, this region sprawling over an area of around 423.55 sq kms was classified as a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1985.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 1-2 days
What To Expect?
Visit the northern portion of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve and Chandoli National Park on its south, and witness the dominant plant species like karvi and awala and animals like Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears and sambar deers.
Tips
- Timings are 9.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the week.
- It is advisable to plan a visit here over a stretch of at least two days, for the sanctuary is too vast to explore in a single day.
- You can also visit a few of the 215 windmills spread across the region.
- If you love botany and everything leafy, explore the dense forests of Met Indavli village.
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Satara Overview!
Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats in the Sataradistrict of Maharashtra, the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Spread over an area of about 423.55 square kilometres, this sanctuary is part of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, offering a unique blend of wildlife exploration and scenic beauty.
| Highlights of Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary | The sanctuary is home to a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, and sambar deer. It's also a bird watcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds, including the heart-spotted woodpecker, long-tailed nightjar, and the rare rufous-bellied eagle. |
|---|---|
| Timings | The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 7 am to 6 pm. |
| Entry Fee | The entry fee for the sanctuary is nominal, but additional charges apply for safari rides and camera usage. |
| Tips | Carry binoculars for a better view of the wildlife. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for trekking. Always follow the instructions of the guides and do not venture off the designated paths. |
| Require Time | A visit to the sanctuary can take anywhere between 3-4 hours, depending on the activities chosen. |
| Restricted Items | Plastic items are strictly prohibited inside the sanctuary to maintain its cleanliness and protect the wildlife. |
More About Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is surrounded by the historic Shivsagar Lake, formed by the Koyna Dam. This lake is a major attraction, offering boating facilities. The sanctuary is also known for its diverse vegetation, including species like the Karvi shrub, which blooms once every eight years.
Sightseeing Around Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearby attractions include the Vasota Fort, nestled within the sanctuary, and the Nehru Science Centre. The Koyna Dam is another must-visit spot.
Best Time to Visit Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the monsoon (June to September) when the sanctuary is lush green, or during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is pleasant.
Water Sports at Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
While the sanctuary itself does not offer water sports, the nearby Shivsagar Lake offers boating facilities. Always follow safety guidelines while indulging in these activities.
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary Nightlife
Being a wildlife sanctuary, there isn't a conventional nightlife. However, the sanctuary offers night safaris, which provide a unique opportunity to observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
Restaurants in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
There are no restaurants within the sanctuary. However, local eateries can be found in the nearby town of Tapola, offering traditional Maharashtrian cuisine.
Nearby Tourist Spots in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Apart from the sanctuary, visitors can explore the Koyna Dam, Tapola (Mini Kashmir), and Mahabaleshwar, a popular hill station located nearby.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
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