Dudhwa National Park: A Hidden Jewel of India's Wild**
**Dudhwa National Park: A Hidden Jewel of India's Wild**
Located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, **Dudhwa National Park** is a breathtaking sweep of dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands supporting an incredible diversity of wildlife. The area covers approximately 490 square kilometers, thus making this lesser-known yet ecologically important park an integral part of the **Dudhwa Tiger Reserve**, which also includes the Kishanpur and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuaries. Dudhwa is not just a paradise for nature lovers but also a big conservation site for endangered species.
## **A Rich History of Conservation**
It was formed in **1977**, partly owing to the efforts of conservationist **Billy Arjan Singh**, who led the effort to conserve biodiversity of the area. At later stages, in the year **1987**, it was recognized as a tiger reserve by **Project Tiger** to maintain its stunning population of majestic big cats and habitats.
## **Flora and Fauna: A Biodiversity Hotspot**
Dudhwa flaunts an assortment of ecosystems, ranging from dense **Sal forests** to open **grasslands**, making it a haven for numerous species of flora and fauna.
### **Wildlife**
- **Royal Bengal Tigers** – Being a part of the **Dudhwa Tiger Reserve**, the park has a stable population of these magnificent predators.
- **Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros** – Reintroduced in the park in 1984, this species thrives in the swampy grasslands.
- **Leopards and Sloth Bears** – Though shy, both species are incredibly captivating and thrive within the depths of the dense forest cover.
- **Barasingha (Swamp Deer)** – One of the primary reasons Dudhwa is rich with a growing population of this extremely rare, endangered deer.
- **Gangetic Dolphins** – Rounding off this entire aquatic variety is the sight of dolphins that glide through rivers and wetlands in the park.
Dudhwa is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts as it has over **400 species** of birds recorded. Some of the prominent species include:
Great Slaty Woodpecker
Sarus Crane
Bengal Florican
Indian Hornbill
Fishing Eagles and Kingfishers
## **Dudhwa Tour: Safaris and Activities**
Explore Dudhwa through exciting **jeep safaris**, **elephant rides**, and **nature trails** to catch a glimpse of its diverse wildlife at close range.
- **Jeep Safari**: The best mode to cover big areas and animals in their own habitat.
- **Elephant Safari**: Truly a unique experience, especially spotting rhinos and tigers hiding in tall grasslands.
- **Birdwatching Trails**: Wetlands and forests offer an excellent view of migratory as well as the resident birds.
## Best Time to Visit
The park is open from **November to June**, with the best time for wildlife spotting between **December and April**. The park is closed during monsoons as heavy rain and flooding prevail.
## **How to Reach Dudhwa**
- **By Air** – The nearest airport is Lucknow, about **230 km** away.
- **By Rail** – The nearest railway station is Dudhwa, which is well connected to other major cities.
- **By Road**: Well-metalled roads are available from Lucknow, Bareilly, and other towns in the region for access to Dudhwa.
Dudhwa National Park is a hidden treasure that offers a raw and unfiltered experience of nature. With its diverse wildlife, lush greenery, and conservation significance, it stands as a testament to India’s rich natural heritage. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a nature lover, a visit to Dudhwa promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the wild.
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