Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary: Your Guide To Wildlife And Nature In Madhya Pradesh

Scenic views from camping spot in Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh

Located near Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in the region, established in 1989. This small yet picturesque sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, scenic hills, and rich history. The sanctuary is a popular bird watching destination, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds visit the area. Ralamandal is not just a sanctuary but also a popular trekking and bird-watching spot. It offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers looking to escape the urban hustle.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Two deers sitting in their natural habitat, living free in their natural habitat of the conservation park in Madhya Pradesh

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Located at merely 20kms from the city of Indore, The wildlife sanctuary is a popular spot for tourists. The sanctuary is centred around Ralamandal Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas. There’s a historic hunting lodge built by the Holkar dynasty on top of the hill, adding to the location’s cultural significance.

How To Reach Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary

A picture of a group of flamingos standing in the water standing and hunting for Food

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Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by various modes of transport. Here’s a guide on how to reach the sanctuary:

By Air: Nearest Airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore which is about 25 km from Ralamandal. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

By Train: Nearest railway station is Indore Junction which lies at a distance of about 20 km to Ralamandal. Indore Junction is a major railway hub, connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Bhopal. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or book an app-based cab service to reach the sanctuary.

By Road: The sanctuary is located around 20 km from the city centre and can be easily reached by car or local transport. You can take the Indore–Dewas Bypass Road (NH 47) and follow the signs towards Ralamandal. Local buses and auto-rickshaws also ply from Indore to the sanctuary.

Places To Visit Near Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary

Here are some notable places you can visit in the vicinity of the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary on your Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Tour.

1. Kanha National Park

A picture of a tiger in Kanha National Park, which is a famous tourist attraction near Ralamandal National Park.

Photo: Kalyan Varma / Wikimedia Commons

The Kanha National Park forms a part of the famous wildlife parks of the country. It is around 250 kms away from Ralamandal National Park. A rich fauna and flora populate this park, including a decent population of tigers, which attracts people interested in wildlife. Other major attractions here include a jungle safari and the view of other wild animals. It is also famous for its barasingha deer, one of the endangered species that has been well-conserved in the park.

Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign nationals

2. Bandhavgarh National Park

An image of a Peacock in Bandhavgarh National Park, amongst the best places to see near Ralamandal National Park.

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Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most famous national parks there. This park inhabits a large concentration of tigers. The landscape of this park is undulating and covered with dense forests, thus providing an ideal habitat for tigers to dwell. Visitors can go on an exciting jungle safari and may even get to see tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and many other wildlife species. It is also a house to many ancient temples and forts, which enable one to experience the unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Timing: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign nationals

3. Pench National Park

A picture of the lush, green landscape of Pench National Park, a beautiful area near Ralamandal National Park, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Photo: Ishani Mehta / Wikimedia Commons

The Pench National Park is a serene wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh located at a distance of 175 kilometres from the Ralamandal National Park. It is known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. The park is also a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists. Visitors can spot many wildlife species like tigers, guars, leopards and various others on jungle safaris. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic landscape. It is famous for its association with Rydard Kipling’s classic novel The Jungle Book.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign nationals

4. Pachmarhi Hill Station

A scenic view in the Pachmarhi Hill Station that spreads across a vast land, near Ralamandal National Park

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Pachmarhi Hill Station is a beautiful and serene hill station in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh. It occupies a place of pride in everybody’s mind with its pleasing climate and provides scope for relaxation and rejuvenation. Beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and ancient caves add to the thrill this beautiful place offers to nature lovers and adventure seekers. The highest point in the Satpura Range is Dhoopgarh Peak, which can be visited. Other amusements can include trekking, camping, and birdwatching for all visitors.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free

5. Bhimbetka Rock Shelter

 picture of one of the wall art made by the early humans representing a huge mammal engraved on the wall of Bhimbetka Rock Shelter.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

Bhimbetka Rock Shelter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Madhya Pradesh. It is an archeological marvel that features ancient rock paintings dating back to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic eras. Visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of early humans, showcasing their artistic expressions and hunting techniques in this shelter. Visitors can marvel at the intricate rock paintings, explore various shelters, and learn about the rich history of the region here. This place offers an insight into the human journey and the development of art.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign nationals

Where To Stay

Luxurious stay options around the top national park of Madhya Pradesh, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary

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While there are no accommodations within the sanctuary itself, there are several options in Indore, which is only about 20 km away. Radisson Blu Hotel and Fairfield by Marriott, Indore offer luxurious stays while Hotel Apna Palace, Hotel Crown Palace offer budget-friendly, traditional options in proximity to Ralamandal.

Where To Eat

An image of Poha, a dish quite popular in India that is made by flaky rice cooked with vegetables and spices.

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Indore is famous for its rich street food culture and diverse dining options. While visiting the sanctuary, you can explore various eateries in and around Indore. Sarafa Bazaar, Indore’s famous night market is perfect for street food lovers, with an array of local delicacies like poha, jalebi, bhutte ka kees, and sabudana khichdi. Chhappan Dukan and Nafees Restaurant are famous for Mughlai and North Indian cuisine. Mediterra (Sayaji Hotel) is a rooftop restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine along with stunning views of the city.

Best Time To Visit

An image of a wildlife reserve with elephants walking alongside a river that flows through the park.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

October to March is the best time to visit Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, as the weather is pleasant, and it’s easier to spot wildlife. During the monsoons, the sanctuary becomes lush green, making it beautiful for nature walks and treks.

Other Factors To Consider

Other Factors To Consider

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Here are some factors to be considered while planning a trip to the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary:

Average Cost Of The Trip

An average cost of a budget-friendly trip to the wildlife Sanctuary would be around 1500 – 2500 INR. This includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and entry fees to Ralamandal National Park. However, it can vary depending on the tourist’s travel style and accommodation.

Tips For Travellers

  • Book accommodation in advance.
  • Pack appropriate clothing and essentials.
  • Check weather conditions and pack accordingly.
  • Carry a basic medical kit.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene spot for a short wildlife retreat, easily accessible from Indore, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquillity and nature. Since there are a lot of places to visit near wildlife Sanctuary, visitors can have a great experience altogether. Plan your next trip with TripXL and ensure a memorable and smooth experience.

Cover Photo: Xue Guangjian / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for visitors, i.s. INR 5. Additionally, if you plan to use a camera or participate in activities like a safari, there may be separate charges.
Yes, trekking is one of the main activities at Ralamandal. The trek to Ralamandal Hill is moderately easy and provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
No, there are no accommodations within the sanctuary itself. However, Indore, just 20 km away, has many options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
It is generally discouraged to bring food inside the sanctuary to avoid disturbing the wildlife. However, you can carry water and small snacks if you plan to trek or spend extended hours inside.
The sanctuary is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. However, it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for wildlife sightings.

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