Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore Maharashtra’s Hidden Gem

A lush landscape in Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary with green trees and a clear sky.

Explore Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, in the scenic Raigad district of Maharashtra. Covering around 55 square kilometres, this sanctuary features dense forests, rolling hills, and diverse ecosystems. Established in 1986, it is home to numerous bird species and rare animals, including the Indian bison, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Enjoy the serenity of nature while walking along beautiful trails and taking in stunning views. Whether you seek adventure or peace, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary Location

A dense lush area of Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary with diverse trees and greenery.

Photo: ChiemSeherin / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

If you’re considering the question- where is Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary? Here is the answer we have for you. The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary location is in Maharashtra’s Raigad district. It is about 150 kilometres from Mumbai and 60 kilometres from the beach town of Alibaug. The refuge is in the Western Ghats and is easy to get to with roads, making it a great place for tourists and people who live in cities to get away. The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary entry fee is INR 50 for Indians and INR 300 for foreigners.

How To Reach Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary

A stunning view of the dense greenery and diverse trees in Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: TheOtherKev / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

If you’re wondering how to reach the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, here is the list of possibilities we have for you:

By Road: The Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is easy to reach by car. You can take the NH66 to Alibaug from Mumbai. It takes about 150 kilometres to reach the refuge from Mumbai and 60 kilometres to reach Alibaug. From big towns, state-run buses and private taxis often go there, making it an easy choice for travellers.
By Train: Pen is about 50 kilometres away and has the closest train stop. Pen is easy to get to from Mumbai and Pune. There are two ways to get to the refuge from the station: by taxi or school bus.

By Air: The closest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, about 150 kilometres away in Mumbai. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the refuge from the airport. You can also fly to Pune Airport, about 180 km away, then drive to Phansad.

Places To Visit In And Around Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary

Here’s a list of places to visit around Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary that will make your trip memorable.

1. Kashid Beach

Kashid Beach with golden sand, a popular destination near Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Mayur.thakare / Wikimedia Commons

Kashid Beach is beautiful, with golden sands and clear blue water. It is about 30 kilometres from Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. You can rest, lay out in the sun, and do water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides at the beach. With many plants and casuarina trees, it makes a beautiful setting for family trips and picnics. At beach shacks, visitors can eat fish from the area and check out nearby sights like the historic Khanderi and Underi forts. After exploring the refuge, Kashid Beach is a must-see because of its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free

2. Murud-Janjira Fort

Murud-Janjira Fort viewed from the sea, a famous place near Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Praveenchandar Loganathan / Wikimedia Commons

About 45 kilometres from Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is the impressive Murud-Janjira Fort, which gives you a look into Maharashtra’s long past. When it was first built in the 1600s, the fort was known for its strong defences and strategic position on an island. The fort has beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding land. A short boat ride from Murud can reach it. People can look at its old buildings, water cisterns, and guns. The fort is an interesting place to visit for people interested in the area’s history. It is also surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free

3. Alibaug

 The hills surrounding Karle Khind, a tourist attraction near Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Alibaug is a famous beach spot about 60 kilometres from Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its beautiful scenery and laid-back vibe. This coastal town has a lot of beaches, like Alibaug Beach and Versoli Beach, where you can relax in the sun and do water sports. People can visit historic places like the Kolaba Fort, which they can walk to when the tide is low. Many restaurants in the town serve delicious seafood and native Maharashtrian food. Alibaug is a popular weekend break for people looking for a beach vacation because it has a charming atmosphere and is close to Mumbai.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free

4. Revdanda Beach

The Outer walls of Revdanda Fort, the best place near Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons

Revdanda Beach, about 20 kilometres from Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, is a peaceful place to relax and is known for its beautiful views and quiet atmosphere. The beach has soft, golden sand and calm waves, making it a great place to relax and walk. Revdanda Fort, which is close by, gives visitors a look into the area’s past and stunning coast views. The beach is not as busy as other beaches, making it a nice place for family vacations and picnics. Revdanda Beach is a great place to relax after a day of exploring wildlife.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free

5. Nagaon Beach

Nagaon Beach with golden sand and people enjoying the sun and surrounding water.

Photo: KuwarOnline / Wikimedia Commons

Nagaon Beach is a famous place to visit because of its beautiful shoreline and lively atmosphere. It is about 25 kilometres from Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. Water sports like skydiving, banana boat rides, and jet skiing make the beach popular for people who like to try new things. Shacks all along the beach serve delicious local food, and people can eat fresh fish while enjoying the sea breeze. Families and groups of friends looking for a fun day out will love Nagaon Beach. Its lively atmosphere and beautiful views make it a great addition to the sanctuary experience.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free

Where To Stay

A hotel room interior featuring a bed and large windows showcasing modern design.

Photo: Jahangir Alam Jahan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are several places to stay in Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, so there is something for everyone, no matter their budget or tastes. Eco-resorts and lodges close to the sanctuary offer comfortable stays in the middle of nature. They often offer guided walks of the wildlife and food from the area. For a more full experience, think about staying with local families who run homestays. You can eat real food and learn about the culture. In close towns like Alibaug and Murud, you can find cheap hotels with all the necessary amenities. There may also be camping choices inside the sanctuary, which would be a great way to get close to nature. It’s best to make reservations beforehand, especially during busy times.

Where To Eat

Vada Pav is a popular Mumbai street food favourite, deliciously satisfying for travellers.

Photo: Rutvi Mistry / Wikimedia Commons

Most places near Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary are local bars and restaurants in nearby towns like Alibaug and Murud. These restaurants serve real Maharashtrian food, including seafood, veggies from the area, and traditional dishes like bhakri and sol kadhi. Nearby, Kashid and Nagaon beaches have beach shacks to get fresh seafood and snacks while enjoying the beautiful views. For a more personal experience, you could eat at an eco-resort or a homestay, where you can get home-cooked meals with foods from the area.

Best Time To Visit

Deccan banded gecko in Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra, India for travellers.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

When is the best time to visit Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary? From October to March, when the weather is nice and perfect for being outside. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C during these months, making it a good time to walk and look for wildlife. After the monsoon season, the refuge is covered in lush greenery, making it look even better and attracting a wide range of plants and animals.

Other Factors To Consider

Tawny Coster butterfly on a green leaf of a plant at Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Sharath G. / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip

The general trip cost to Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary depends on how you get there, where you stay, and what you do. The price of petrol for private cars is between 1,500 and 3,000. State-run buses from Mumbai or Pune usually cost between 300 and 600. There are 200 to 800 naira train tickets that go to Pen, which is the closest stop. Alibaug has cheap hotels (₹800 to ₹2,000 per night) and eco-resorts (₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per night) where you can stay. Costs for food each day run from ₹300 to ₹800. Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary timings are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Tips For Travellers

  • Bring light, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor trekking, along with sturdy walking shoes. Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a pair of binoculars for birdwatching and spotting wildlife from a distance.
  • Opt for a guided tour to make the most of your visit. Local guides are knowledgeable about the flora and fauna and can help you spot animals and birds that you might miss on your own.
  • Carry enough water with you, as there may be limited options to purchase refreshments inside the sanctuary. Pack some snacks, but be mindful of the environment and dispose of waste responsibly.
  • Maintain a safe distance from animals, avoid making loud noises, and refrain from feeding or disturbing wildlife. Stick to designated trails to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem.
  • Mobile network coverage can be patchy inside the sanctuary, so inform someone of your plans before heading out and download any necessary maps or information beforehand.

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. TripXL provides personalised itineraries, expert local guides, and hassle-free travel arrangements to enhance your experience. With TripXL, you can fully enjoy the sanctuary’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, knowing that your travel needs are in expert hands. Discover the beauty of nature while creating unforgettable memories with every step you take.

Cover Photo: WildPixar / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are multiple trekking routes available within Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. These trails offer opportunities to explore the forest, spot wildlife, and enjoy the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Mobile network coverage can be patchy or limited inside the sanctuary. It’s best to inform someone of your plans beforehand and download the necessary maps in advance.
Yes, guided tours are available at Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the diverse flora and fauna of the sanctuary, enhancing your wildlife experience.
Yes, the sanctuary often conducts educational programs and workshops for visitors and school groups. These programs focus on wildlife conservation, ecology, and the importance of protecting natural habitats, providing a deeper understanding of the sanctuary's ecosystem.

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