Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary
Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Seonsar Forest, is a vast expanse of natural beauty spread over approximately 4,453 hectares in the districts of Kaithal and Kurukshetra. It is the third-largest forest in Haryana and was officially notified as a sanctuary in 1988. The sanctuary is a critical habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, and the rare Hog Deer. It is particularly famous among birdwatchers, as it hosts over 250 species of resident and migratory birds, especially during the winter months. The forest is characterized by "Sub-group 5B tropical deciduous forest" vegetation, featuring dense clusters of Kikar, Neem, Shisham, and Peepal trees. Recent developments by the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board have initiated projects like a Jungle Safari and a Biodiversity Park to enhance ecotourism. The sanctuary is also home to ancient archaeological remains, with bricks found here dating back to the Kushan and Gupta periods, suggesting the area was inhabited over 1,500 years ago. Walking through the forest trails offers a stark, refreshing contrast to the bustling temple towns nearby. It serves as a vital ecological lung for the region and a sanctuary for nature lovers seeking solitude and a glimpse of wild Haryana.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 5 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife / NatureEntry Fees:
Standard Entry: Entrance fees are approximately 50 INR for Indians and 200 INR for foreigners.
Vehicle Charges: Taking a private vehicle inside may cost an additional 100 INR to 200 INR.
Camera Fees: Profes...Standard Entry: Entrance fees are approximately 50 INR for Indians and 200 INR for foreigners.
Vehicle Charges: Taking a private vehicle inside may cost an additional 100 INR to 200 INR.
Camera Fees: Professional photography or video cameras may attract a separate fee of around 250 INR.Timing:
Regular Timings: The sanctuary is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to spot animals is early morning between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM or late afternoon from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM when they are most active. ...Regular Timings: The sanctuary is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to spot animals is early morning between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM or late afternoon from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM when they are most active.Special Events:
Van Mahotsav: Celebrated in August, this state-level tree plantation festival involves large-scale planting drives and environmental awareness programs.
Wildlife Week: Held in the first week of October, it features photography contests, nat...Van Mahotsav: Celebrated in August, this state-level tree plantation festival involves large-scale planting drives and environmental awareness programs.
Wildlife Week: Held in the first week of October, it features photography contests, nature walks, and educational workshops for students and tourists.Best Photo Spots:
The Watchtower View: Climb the main watchtower at sunrise for a panoramic shot of the forest waking up.
Water Hole Sightings: Set up your tripod near the central reservoir to capture Nilgai or Deer as they come to drink.
Read MoreThe Watchtower View: Climb the main watchtower at sunrise for a panoramic shot of the forest waking up.
Water Hole Sightings: Set up your tripod near the central reservoir to capture Nilgai or Deer as they come to drink.
The Peepal Groves: The gnarled roots and vast canopies of ancient Ficus trees provide a dramatic, jungle-like backdrop.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Safari: Join a guided jeep safari to explore the deeper sections of the Seonsar Forest.
Bird Watching: Bring binoculars to spot Kingfishers, Herons, and the majestic Indian Peafowl.
Nature Photography: Capture the play of light through the dense Shisham canopy and wild animals in their natural habitat.
Explore the Nakshatra Vatika: Visit the specialized garden where plants are arranged according to the 27 lunar mansions of Hindu astrology.
Hiking the Nature Trails: Walk along the designated forest paths to experience the sounds and smells of the wild.
Visit the Wetland Reservoir: Observe the migratory ducks and geese at the newly developed water bodies.
Edu...
Information
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Why Famous:
Biodiversity Hotspot: It is famous for being one of the few places in the plains of Haryana where one can spot the elusive Hog Deer and a massive population of Nilgai.
Ornithological Paradise: The sanctuary is a major halt for migratory bir...Biodiversity Hotspot: It is famous for being one of the few places in the plains of Haryana where one can spot the elusive Hog Deer and a massive population of Nilgai.
Ornithological Paradise: The sanctuary is a major halt for migratory birds traveling from Siberia and Central Asia, making it a top destination for bird photography. -
Architecture:
Natural Landscape and Watchtowers: The "architecture" here is predominantly natural, featuring thick canopies and wetlands. However, the forest department has constructed several wooden and concrete watchtowers strategically located near water holes to allow for safe wildl...Natural Landscape and Watchtowers: The "architecture" here is predominantly natural, featuring thick canopies and wetlands. However, the forest department has constructed several wooden and concrete watchtowers strategically located near water holes to allow for safe wildlife viewing.
Dimensions: The sanctuary covers an area of 11,003 acres. The newly planned Saraswati Wetland Reservoir includes three man-made lakes, each spanning about 25 acres, designed with nesting mounds for migratory waterfowl. The park also includes a Nakshatra Vatika layout based on Vedic astrology. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Chandigarh Airport (IXC) is the nearest, about 105 Kms away. Travelers can take a cab via the Pehowa-Patiala road.
By Train: The nearest station is Kurukshetra (KKDE). From there, it is a 40-minute drive. Kaithal station is also ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Pehowa Tirtha (10 Km), 2. Jyotisar (35 Km), 3. Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary (25 Km), 4. Bhai Ki Baoli (30 Km), 5. Phalgu Tirtha (45 Km), 6. Kalayat Ancient Brick Temples (55 Km), 7. Brahma Sarovar (40 Km), 8. Bir Bara Ban Wildlife Sanctuary (50 Km), 9. Patiala (62 Km), 10. Sheikh Chilli's Tomb (42 Km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Carry insect repellent and wear full-sleeved clothes to protect against mosquitoes and thorns.
Packing: Essential items include binoculars, a high-zoom camera, a sun hat, and plenty of drinking water as there are no shops i...
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