Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
A serene ecotourism reserve near Chandigarh, offering nature trails, diverse wildlife, and abundant bird species in the Shivalik foothills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene ecotourism reserve near Chandigarh, offering nature trails, diverse wildlife, and abundant bird species in the Shivalik foothills.
"A must-visit for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, offering a perfect day out with diverse wildlife and scenic beauty."
🎯 Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars for better wildlife and bird spotting. Essential for nature lovers! :bird:
👟 Comfortable Trekking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the nature trails and treks. Essential for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nature Trails
Various locations within the sanctuary
Explore well-maintained trails for wildlife spotting and photography amidst serene Shivalik foothills.
Birdwatching Paradise
Water bodies and forested areas
Over 150 species of birds, including peacocks and migratory birds, make this a haven for birdwatchers.
Sambar Deer Encounters
Open clearings and forest edges
Witness herds of Sambar Deer up close in their natural habitat – an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Wildlife Spotting
Trekking and Registration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars for better wildlife and bird spotting. Essential for nature lovers! :bird:
👟 Comfortable Trekking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the nature trails and treks. Essential for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture stunning wildlife and nature shots. Early mornings offer the best light. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water, especially during treks. Free glucose water is provided at rest points. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Binoculars for Birding
Bring binoculars for better wildlife and bird spotting. Essential for nature lovers! :bird:
👟 Comfortable Trekking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the nature trails and treks. Essential for exploring the terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture stunning wildlife and nature shots. Early mornings offer the best light. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water, especially during treks. Free glucose water is provided at rest points. :droplet:
📝 Register for Treks
Book your trek in advance via the sanctuary's website or Nepli gate. Limited spots available!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is praised as a serene natural haven with diverse wildlife and beautiful walking trails, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. While some find guided tours could be more frequent, the overall experience is highly recommended for its peaceful atmosphere and connection with nature.
"The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary in Chandigarh is a hidden gem! 🌟 Spread over 260 acres, this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The moment you step in, you're greeted by the serene surroundings and the sweet songs of birds. 🐦
Pros:
1. Diverse Wildlife: The sanctuary has a wide range of animals, including deer, sambar, barking deer, and even leopards! 🐯
2. Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary is surrounded by the Shivalik hills, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. 📸
3. Walking Trails: The walking trails are well-maintained, allowing visitors to explore the sanctuary on foot. 🚶♀️
4. Birdwatching: With over 150 species of birds, Sukhna is a birdwatcher's paradise! 🐦
Cons:
1. Limited Guided Tours: The guided tours could be more informative and frequent.
2. Crowds: The sanctuary can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
Tips:
1. Visit early: Visit the sanctuary early in the morning for the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
2. Bring binoculars: Don't forget your binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting!
3. Respect the environment: Remember to keep the sanctuary clean and respect the wildlife.
Overall, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. With its diverse wildlife, scenic beauty, and walking trails, it's a perfect spot for a day out. 🌳💚"
Mohit kumar
"Beautiful reserve forest managed by Chd forest deptt. Entry, via Nepli gate, with a prior registration for a ~10km trek/hike with some elevation (~345 m). Can take kids ~6 yrs old - younger ones might not be able to walk it on their own."
Ajit SG
"Great place; arrangement of free glucose water and bananas at rest points (2 such points on the trek) along with an Ambulance Support (for the real adventure enthusiasts).
Must visit and make sure to be on time."
Gurpreet Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located near Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. You can reach it by taxi or private vehicle. The Nepli gate is the primary entry point for treks.
While direct public transport to the sanctuary entrance might be limited, you can take a bus or auto-rickshaw to Sukhna Lake and then arrange for local transport or a short walk to the sanctuary's vicinity.
The most popular trek starts from the Nepli gate and covers about 10 km through the forest. Prior registration is required for this route.
The sanctuary is generally closed during the monsoon season, typically from July to August, to protect the ecosystem.
It's located just about 2 kilometers from Sukhna Lake, making it easily accessible for visitors already exploring the lake area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entry permit is required. You can obtain it from the Chandigarh Forest Department. For treks, prior registration is mandatory.
Information on specific entry fees can be obtained from the Chandigarh Forest Department. Trekking registrations have associated costs.
For general entry and exploring the trails, you might be able to enter without prior booking, but for specific treks like the 10km one, registration is essential.
The sanctuary opens very early, around 5 AM, which is ideal for wildlife spotting. It's best to confirm exact timings with the forest department.
The sanctuary is closed during the monsoon season. Visitors are also expected to respect the environment and wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot diverse wildlife including deer (sambar, barking deer), wild boar, jackals, and potentially leopards. It's also a haven for over 150 bird species.
While there are nature trails, the availability and frequency of guided tours can be limited. It's advisable to check with the forest department for current offerings.
You can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, photography, and trekking. Horse riding safaris are also offered by private operators nearby.
Yes, the sanctuary is suitable for children, especially for shorter walks. The longer treks are recommended for kids around 6 years and older.
Rest points with basic amenities like glucose water and bananas are available on longer treks. Ambulance support is also provided for trekkers.
📸 📸 Photography
Open clearings, water bodies, and forest edges are ideal for spotting and photographing wildlife. Early mornings offer the best light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For professional or commercial shoots, it's advisable to inquire with the forest department about specific permits.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. Binoculars are also useful for spotting subjects.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography and are also when animals are most active.
While not explicitly advertised, local guides or nature enthusiasts might offer photography-focused excursions. It's worth inquiring locally.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For the longer treks, it's recommended for children around 6 years and older, as they can manage the distance and some elevation. The provision of glucose water and bananas at rest points is a thoughtful touch for families. Remember to pack snacks and ensure everyone stays hydrated.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your telephoto lenses to get close-ups of the diverse bird species and animals like the Sambar deer. The well-defined trails allow for good vantage points without disturbing the natural habitat. Remember to be patient and respectful to capture those perfect moments.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Trekkers
These walks offer a chance to breathe in the fresh forest air, listen to the sounds of nature, and potentially spot wildlife. The sanctuary's location near Chandigarh makes it an accessible destination for a refreshing day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nature Trails
One of the most popular routes is the approximately 10km trek that begins at the Nepli gate. This trek involves some elevation gain and is a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a bit of a hike. Along the way, you'll find rest points equipped with basic amenities, and for the more adventurous, ambulance support is available.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, as you'll be traversing varied terrain. The trails are designed to minimize disturbance to wildlife, allowing for respectful observation in their natural habitat.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
For bird enthusiasts, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is a true paradise, with over 150 species recorded. You can expect to see colorful peacocks, kingfishers, and a variety of migratory birds that frequent the sanctuary's water bodies. Bringing binoculars can significantly enhance your birdwatching experience.
To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, it's highly recommended to visit during the early morning hours when animals are most active and the light is ideal for photography.
Trekking and Registration Process
It's crucial to note that prior registration is required for these treks. Information on how to register can often be found on the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary's website or by contacting the Chandigarh Forest Department directly. Spots can be limited, so booking in advance is advisable, especially for popular dates.
+1 :ticket:This trek is generally considered suitable for children around 6 years old and above, though younger children might require assistance. The experience offers a great way to connect with nature and get some exercise in a beautiful setting.
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