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India is home to a vast array of wildlife sanctuaries throughout the whole nation. While larger reserves like Jim Corbett and Kaziranga often steal the spotlight, smaller sanctuaries play an equally crucial role in conservation. These compact yet biodiverse areas provide a safe habitat for various species, from leopards and deer to wild boars and langurs. Spanning less than 20 square kilometers, the smallest wildlife sanctuaries in India offer a unique experience for wildlife lovers seeking offbeat destinations. Despite their size, they contribute significantly to ecological balance and environmental sustainability.
Top 10 Smallest Wildlife Sanctuaries In India
Here are the 10 smallest wildlife sanctuaries in India which offer an exclusive wildlife to people who love offbeat tourist spots:
1. Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Rudraksha Chodankar / Wikimedia Commons
Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 5.14 square kilometers. Established in 1997, this sanctuary is one of the smallest yet most accessible wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is characterised by dry deciduous scrub forests and vast grasslands, making it an ideal habitat. The sanctuary is primarily known for its population of the Indian gazelle (chinkara), which is frequently spotted in the open fields. Other inhabitants include the elusive Indian wolf, hyenas, foxes, and various reptiles. Birdwatchers can also spot raptors such as harriers, eagles, and kestrels. Due to its open landscape and manageable size, it is one of the best places for wildlife photography and short treks.
Location: Baramati, Pune district, Maharashtra
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹30 per person, ₹100 per car, ₹50 per camera
2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Amolpro / Wikimedia Commons
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Goa’s smallest protected reserve, covering an area of just 7.98 square kilometers. Despite its small size, it is one of the most visited sanctuaries in the state due to its rich biodiversity and well-maintained eco-tourism facilities. The sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including leopards, Indian bison (gaur), wild boars, porcupines, and barking deer. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 275 species of birds, making it an ornithologist’s paradise. Unlike other sanctuaries, Bondla features a small zoo, a deer park, and a botanical garden, enhancing its appeal as a family-friendly destination.
Location: Sattari Taluka, Goa
Timings: Open daily from 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults and ₹20 for kids, ₹25 extra for still camera, ₹100 for video camera
3. Bherjan Borajan Padumoni Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: KnipsKaline / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Located in Assam’s Tinsukia district, the Bherjan-Borajan-Padumoni Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique sanctuary. It is made up of three small forest reserves covering a total area of 7.22 square kilometers. Established in 1999, it is particularly famous for its primate diversity. The sanctuary is home to seven species of primates, including the endangered western hoolock gibbon, capped langur, rhesus macaque, and pig-tailed macaque. The dense tropical forests also provide a habitat for several small mammals, reptiles, and over 100 species of birds. Unlike larger wildlife reserves, the compact size of this sanctuary makes wildlife spotting relatively easy.
Location: Tinsukia district, Assam
Timings: Open daily from 7 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indian nationals, ₹500 for foreigners; additional charges may apply for guided tours
4. Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: debannja / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in Bihar’s West Champaran district, Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 8.74 square kilometers. Established in 1978, this small sanctuary is known for its vast lake, which serves as a haven for both migratory and resident bird species. The surrounding forests also provide shelter to mammals such as the Indian fox, jackals, jungle cats, and various deer species. Although birdwatching is the primary attraction here, the sanctuary’s serene environment makes it a great spot for nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat. During the winter months, thousands of migratory birds flock to the lake, creating a picturesque setting. Boat rides and guided tours allow visitors to explore the sanctuary’s diverse landscapes.
Location: West Champaran district, Bihar
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 per person; additional charges may apply for boating and guided tours
5. Hingolgadh Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: WildPixar / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Hingolgadh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Gujarat’s Rajkot district, is a small but ecologically significant reserve spanning approximately 6.54 square kilometers. Established in 1980, the sanctuary is known for its semi-arid landscape, consisting of dry scrub forests and vast grasslands. It is home to herbivores such as the chinkara (Indian gazelle), blue bull (nilgai), and Indian hare. The sanctuary also supports a variety of reptiles, including monitor lizards and snakes. While it remains relatively dry for most of the year, the monsoon season transforms the area into a lush green paradise. Its proximity to Hingolgadh Castle adds historical charm to the sanctuary.
Location: Rajkot district, Gujarat
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹40 per adult; additional charges may apply for guided tours and vehicles
6. Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: analogicus / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary covers about 4.028 square kilometers. Established in 1983, it surrounds Renuka Lake, the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh. It is home to species like spotted deer, barking deer, porcupines, and various bird species. One of its main attractions is the lion safari, where visitors can observe the Asiatic lion in a protected environment. The sanctuary’s lush mixed deciduous forests and the tranquil lake provide activities like boating, birdwatching, and nature walks enhancing the experience. The lake also holds religious significance, linked to the legend of Goddess Renuka.
Location: Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 per person; additional charges may apply for lion safari and boating
7. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: patrickgregerson / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary covers approximately 9.6 square kilometers and is one of the oldest wildlife reserves in the state. Established in 1998, it forms part of the Eastern Himalayan foothills, characterised by dense forests and proximity to the Teesta River. The sanctuary is renowned for its elephant population, which can often be seen in large herds. Other wildlife includes the Indian bison (gaur), leopards, wild boars, and several deer species. Birdwatchers can spot vibrant species like the scarlet minivet, green pigeon, and hornbills. Its location near Gorumara National Park allows for an extended wildlife experience. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris, guided nature walks, and photography opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹70 per person, ₹100 per camera, additional charges may apply for guided tours and vehicles
8. Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: hbieser / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Established in 1989, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the state’s oldest protected areas, covering around 5 square kilometers. Situated near Indore, the sanctuary was once a hunting ground for the Holkar royal family. Today, it serves as a refuge for wildlife such as leopards, blackbucks, sambar deer, chital, and blue bulls (nilgai). The landscape features dry deciduous forests with teak, bamboo, and eucalyptus trees. A major attraction within the sanctuary is the ancient hunting lodge built by the Holkars, known as “Shikargah.” Visitors can explore its rich flora and fauna, hike up the hill for panoramic views, or enjoy birdwatching and photography.
Location: Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: Open daily from 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 per person, ₹10 for parking; additional charges may apply for guided tours and photography
9. Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 7.67 square kilometers. Established on May 29, 1987, the sanctuary lies just 8 kilometers from Pinjore along the Pinjore-Mallah Road. It forms part of the Shivalik hills and is near Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary and Kalesar National Park. The sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, wild boars, rhesus macaques, gray langurs, sambar deer, chital and Asiatic elephants. Declared an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) in 2009, the area has strict conservation regulations. The sanctuary offers nature trails and guided safaris, providing opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Location: Panchkula district, Haryana
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹90 per person; additional charges may apply for guided tours
10. Yashwantrao Chavan Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Spread across 10.87 square kilometers, Yashwantrao Chavan Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique man-made forest. Located at the junction of Kadegaon, Walva, and Palus tehsils, the sanctuary was artificially developed and has no natural water source. Wildlife species, including sambar deer, blackbucks, chital, muntjac, wild boars, foxes, peacocks, and porcupines, were introduced into the sanctuary. The vegetation includes tamarind, neem, eucalyptus, and acacia trees. The sanctuary also holds religious significance due to the presence of an ancient Shiva temple complex dating back to the Satavahana period.
Location: Sangli district, Maharashtra
Timings: Open daily from 7 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹55 per person; additional charges may apply for guided tours
Small but mighty, these smallest wildlife sanctuaries in India prove that size doesn’t define significance. They serve as essential habitats for endangered species and offer nature lovers peaceful, less-crowded alternatives to larger reserves. From Maharashtra’s artificial Sagareshwar to the historical trails of Ralamandal, each sanctuary has something unique. Visiting these hidden gems not only supports conservation efforts but also provides a refreshing escape into nature. Plan your trip to these unique wildlife sanctuaries with TripXL.
Cover Photo: ambquinn / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
