Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa National Park is one of India’s most biodiverse and ecologically rich national parks, located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, near the Indo-Nepal border. It is part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, which also includes the Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary.
Coordinates : 28.5186° N, 80.6771° E
Established : 1977 (as a national park); part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve since 1987
Area : Approx. 490 km² (core area); over 1,200 km² including the entire Tiger Reserve
Altitude : 150–183 meters above sea level
Best Time to Visit : November to June (closed during monsoon from July to October)

Landscape & Ecosystem

Dudhwa lies in the Terai belt, a marshy grassland region at the foothills of the Himalayas. This area is extremely fertile and supports dense forests, wetlands, and alluvial plains.

Forest Type : Moist deciduous forests, tall sal (Shorea robusta) trees, tropical grasslands, and swamps
Rivers and Water Bodies : The Suheli River and other smaller streams traverse the park, supporting its wetland ecosystem.
Soil : Alluvial, sandy loam—supports rich vegetation

Historical Background

• Originally protected as a wildlife sanctuary in 1958 to conserve swamp deer (barasingha).
• Declared a national park in 1977, thanks to the efforts of famed conservationist Billy Arjan Singh.
• In 1984, it became home to a reintroduced population of the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros from Assam.
• In 1987, it was included under Project Tiger, and the larger Dudhwa Tiger Reserve was formed by combining it with Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary was added to the reserve in 2000.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Dudhwa is home to a wide variety of endangered and rare species, making it a key region for conservation.

Major Fauna

Tigers - One of the few places in India with a significant tiger population; part of Project Tiger.
Indian Leopard - Found in forested areas; elusive and nocturnal.
Indian Rhinoceros - Reintroduced in the 1980s from Assam under a conservation project; visible in the enclosed Rhino area.
Asian Elephant - Migratory herds visit the park, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Swamp Deer (Barasingha) - A major attraction; Dudhwa hosts the largest population in India.
Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Hog Deer, Fishing Cat

Birds

• Over 450 species recorded.
• Includes Sarus Crane, Great Hornbill, Bar-headed Goose, Kingfishers, Owls, and Migratory birds.
• Important Bird Area (IBA) due to the presence of rare and migratory species

Reptiles and Amphibians

• Gharials, Mugger Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards.
• Various turtles, frogs, and snakes.

Flora

• Dominant tree : Sal (Shorea robusta).
• Other common trees : Teak, Jamun, Bamboo, Sehore, Asna, Haldu.
• Grasslands with tall elephant grass.
• Swamps and seasonal floodplains provide aquatic plant habitats.

Tourism & Safaris

Jeep Safaris : Jeep safaris in Dudhwa National Park offer an exciting way to explore its rich wildlife and natural beauty. Conducted in core zones like Sonaripur and Sathiana, these safaris provide opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, rhinos, and the rare swamp deer. Safaris are available twice daily—morning and afternoon—and are accompanied by trained forest guides. The open jeeps allow for safe yet close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors must obtain permits in advance through the forest department or authorized booking centers.

Elephant Safaris : Elephant safaris in Dudhwa National Park offer a rare chance to explore dense forests and spot wildlife like the one-horned rhinoceros. These safaris are mainly conducted in the restricted rhino zone, providing a safe and quiet way to observe animals up close. Limited seats make advance booking essential through the forest department.

Bird watching : Bird Watching in Dudhwa National Park is a rewarding experience, with over 450 species of resident and migratory birds. Key sightings include the Bengal Florican, Sarus Crane, hornbills, and various raptors and waterfowl. The park's wetlands, grasslands, and forest edges are ideal spots for bird enthusiasts.

Forest Rest Houses : Forest Rest Houses in Dudhwa National Park offer basic yet comfortable accommodation for visitors wanting to stay close to nature. Located in zones like Sonaripur, Sathiana, and Salukhapur, they provide easy access to safari routes and wildlife sightings. Bookings must be made through the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department in advance due to limited availability.

Nearby Attractions : Nearby attractions of Dudhwa National Park include Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, is famous for gharials, Gangetic dolphins, and rich aquatic life. The unique Frog Temple in Oel and the holy town of Gola Gokaran Nath also offer cultural and spiritual experiences.

How to Reach

By Road : From Lucknow (240 km), take a taxi or bus to Palia Kalan, the nearest town, then travel 10–15 km to the park gate.

By Train : Nearest stations are Dudhwa, Palia Kalan, or Mailani. Take a taxi or local transport from there.

By Air : Nearest airport is Lucknow (LKO). From there, travel by road or train to Dudhwa.