Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is a big home for wildlife and nature lovers in the most beautiful state, Rajasthan. It covers an area of over 250 square kilometres. The sanctuary is a habitational place for many flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, wolves, and bird varieties. Nestled within the Aravalli Hills, Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary offers an atmosphere of silence to its visitors, far away from the noise of city life. From photography to trekking and wildlife spotting, it has all the perfect activities for everyone.
Location
Photo: Kushagra140 / Wikimedia Commons
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is situated near Kota in Rajasthan, India, and falls under the Mukundara Hills National Park. It was considered a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Kota. A bay of rich biodiversity, the sanctuary consists of rugged terrain, hills, and valleys, making it ideal for trekkers and nature lovers. It is about 50 kilometres from Kota, the nearest city to it, and the location is also well-connected with other major cities in Rajasthan. Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary address is VR9R+HMR, Kota, Damodarpura, Rajasthan 325003.
How To Reach
Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary through air, road or rail:
By Air: Kota Airport is the closest airport to Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, almost 50 kilometres away. However, it is a domestic airport and does not have good connectivity. Jaipur International Airport would be more convenient for foreign visitors, as it lies about 250 kilometres from here. From either airport, visitors would have to hire a taxi or board a bus to reach the sanctuary.
By Road: The wildlife sanctuary is well-connected with the help of roadways. Buses are available from Kota, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Many common ones are RSRTC buses, and private operators are operating comfortable options too. Regular bus services are available from Kota to the entrance of the sanctuary.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kota Junction, one of the major railway stations in Rajasthan. The distance from the sanctuary is about 50 kilometres. You can hire a taxi from Kota Junction to the refuge or board a bus. You can get a train from almost all major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
Places To Visit In And Around Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary
Besides the sanctuary itself, there are several other attractions in the vicinity to explore after enjoying Darrah Rajasthan Wildlife Sanctuary activities:
1. Kota Barrage
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Kota Barrage is a major irrigation structure across the Chambal River. It has turned out to be of considerable tourist interest. The most beautiful view is from the Barrage itself, which is very often visited by residents and tourists for evening walks and picnic spots. The water released during the monsoon season from the barrage presents a captivating sight when it is in full flow. The calm surroundings and cool breeze make it an apt spot to unwind after wandering around Kota all day.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Chambal Garden
Photo: Daniel Kraft / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chambal Garden is very beautifully situated alongside the Chambal River. The garden, rich in greenery, justifies being an ideal spot for families and lovers of nature. It contains well-manicured lawns, a serene lake, and a suspension bridge that adds to its beauty. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, while the garden’s serenity presents a perfect backdrop for picnics. Everything from exotic birds to different types of flora and fauna can be found here in the garden. Still, it is a place meant for those who come for the purpose of birdwatching or photography.
Timings: 24*7, Sunday closed
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
3. Garadia Mahadev Temple
Photo: VirendarMishra / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Garadia Mahadev Temple is located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Chambal River. This offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in Kota. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil retreat for visitors. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and popular spot for meditation and nature photography. The scenic beauty and the temple’s spiritual aura make it a must-visit destination for devotees and nature enthusiasts.
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Seven Wonders Park
Photo: Arvind Sunda07 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Seven Wonders Park in Kota boasts seven replicas of the various world wonders. The park consists of miniatures of the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, and Leaning Tower of Pisa, among others. It lies on the banks of Kishore Sagar Lake. The park is an excellent combination of art, culture, and nature’s beauty. The replicas are exquisitely made; it would be a delight for the visitors to view these worldwide landmarks in one place. It is beautiful at night with the structures’ illumination.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 9 PM, Monday Closed
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
5. Abheda Mahal
Photo: Ritukejai / Wikimedia Commons
Abheda Mahal is Kota’s less famous jewel, an ancient palace with a quiet lake. It acts like a magnet to migratory birds during seasons. The place once belonged to the kings of Kota as a hunting lodge and is now a place of calm appreciation for naturalists and history buffs. The lake’s quiet waters reflect its beauty upon the palace, giving picture-postcard perspectives. One can even view many species of birds visiting here, which is a heaven for birdwatchers. The serenity of the Abheda Mahal makes it an excellent getaway from the racket of the City.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person (Indian), ₹40 per person (foreigner)
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There are various accommodation options near Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. In Kota, which is the closest city, you’ll find numerous hotels catering to different budgets. Popular options include Hotel Lilac, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, and Hotel Sukhdham Kothi. These hotels offer comfortable stays with modern amenities, making them a convenient base for exploring the sanctuary.
Where To Eat
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kota offers a variety of dining options to satisfy different palates. If you’re a fan of traditional Rajasthani cuisine, don’t miss out on local dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Popular restaurants include Pangea Restaurant, Maheshwari Bhojanalaya, and Chatkazz Kota. You can also find continental and Chinese options in these restaurants, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Tahamie Farooqui / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities like trekking and photography.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Joe-Francis Kiaga / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary ticket price is ₹20 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip cost to Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary can vary depending on your mode of transport and accommodation preferences. On average, a budget trip, including transportation, food, and stay, can cost around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per person for a weekend. A more luxurious experience, including a stay in a resort and private tours, can cost upwards of ₹10,000 per person.
Tips For Travellers:
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially if visiting during the warmer months.
- To get the most out of your visit, consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth information about the sanctuary’s flora and fauna.
- Always maintain a safe distance from the animals and avoid making loud noises that could disturb them.
- Carry a camera with a good zoom lens for Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary photos as many animals stay at a distance.
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary is foremost on the list of places one should not miss on trips to Rajasthan in search of its natural beauty. Right from the interest in wildlife to a simple, relaxed retreat from hectic schedules, the sanctuary extends diverse options for entertainment for one and all. So, just plan a visit with TripXL and experience the magic of this very amazing hidden treasure yourself!
Cover Photo: Prabin vlog / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
