Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary: A Nature Lover’s Paradise in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir

Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and is a paradise for nature lovers

Discover the unseen and astonishingly beautiful worlds and diverse bio-species of the Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary in the picturesque cities of Doda, Jammu, and Kashmir. This sanctuary, therefore, becomes a perfect place for those who love nature conservation and wildlife enthusiasts to tour and understand the region’s biodiversity wealth. Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1990. It has an extent of 33 acres. The main purpose of the wildlife sanctuary is to accommodate wildlife, including sambhur, deer, wild boar, and many more. Spanning across 2,000 acres of land, it is an abode to many mammals like leopards, wild boars, and a rich avian life.

Quick Details About Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: Doodh Ganga, Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir
Established: 1990
Area: 33.24 square kilometres
Elevation: The camp is located 1200 metres above sea level
Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: Monday to Friday, 7 AM – 5 PM
Nearest Airport: Jammu airport is approximately 40 kilometres away
Nearest Railway Station: Railway neighbouring stations include Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 35 km away

How To Reach Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary

The Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is just 40 kilometres from the Jammu and Kashmir Airport

Photo: VishuN / Wikimedia Commons

The Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the border of Jammu province in the Doda district and lies 40 km from Jammu city. The sanctuary is somewhat easy to access by road, air and train. The friendly environment also allows tourists to experience tranquillity and natural beauty away from the urban centre.

By Road

The main access routes are by road because the sanctuary’s location is easily accessible by car. You can also drive to Kishtwar from Jammu City or board a local taxi or bus from Jammu.

By Air

The closest airport to visit Sanchar Sarovar Sanctuary is Jammu Airport, situated around 40 kms from it.

By Rail

Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest station and is approximately 35 km away from the sanctuary.

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Places To Visit In And Around

1. Mansar Lake

Mansar Lake is lined by tall trees and has a tranquil ambience that is suitable for a holiday

Photo: Pranavmagotra03 / Wikimedia Commons

A beautiful lake known as Mansar Lake is situated around 62 km away from the wildlife sanctuary. This lake is surrounded by ideal scenery and is a perfect spot for picnics and is reputed for its tranquil surroundings and the opportunity for boating. Explore Mansar Lake which is surrounded by pine forests and picturesque hills. You can also spot a variety of fish, seasonal birds and tortoises here.

2. Surinsar Lake

Surinsar Lake is a picturesque lake that is enveloped by thick forests and is a tourist hotspot

Photo: Kurun / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Another famous shrine is Surinsar Lake, a picturesque site approximately 52 kilometres away, wrapped up by thick forests where one can find peace away from the city noise. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 100 km from the sanctuary. The name of this famous cave shrine is Shiv Khori. You can visit this tourist hotspot to enjoy the scenic beauty of this glistening lake and also visit the Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary nearby.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jammu

Where To Stay

Stay in a comfortable hotel room with warm lighting near this wildlife sanctuary

Photo: reisetopia / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

You can enjoy luxurious accommodations near this wildlife sanctuary by staying at the Hotel Radisson Blu that has comfortable rooms, up-to-date amenities, and quality food and beverage establishments. Another hotel you can stay at is Fortune Inn Riviera that has a fully equipped fitness centre as well. You can also access several restaurants in the hotel. Besides this the Lemon Tree Hotel, Hotel K. C. Residency, Mansar Resort, and more are good accommodation options.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit this sanctuary is from March to May when the weather is pleasant

Photo: Bdmshiva / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit the Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is in March-May or October-November as the weather is pleasant and suitable for watching wildlife and outdoor events. During this time, the temperature ranges between 15° and 25° C, allowing you to tour the sanctuaries comfortably and admire their natural aesthetics.

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Other Factors To Consider

Explore the trekking trails at this wildlife sanctuary to uncover natural scenic beauty

Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tips For Travellers

  • Clothing: Put on comfortable clothes which are right for the weather. Light cotton clothes are the most suitable for the summer season, and warm clothes for other months.
  • Footwear: Wear strong shoes that are good for walking or trekking. Good footwear is necessary on the sanctuary trails since they are uneven.
  • Permits: Make sure you get the required wildlife safari permits. These permits can often be obtained at the entrance to the reserve.
  • Guides: Hire a local guide to make the most of your visit by having them share important insights about the sanctuary, spotting wildlife, and explaining the meanings behind different plants and animals.

Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and is perfect for wildlife spotting. You can enjoy views of the sambhur, deer, wild boar, and many more at this sanctuary that is just 28 kilometres from Jammu. This sanctuary is also a tourist hotspot that is laden with lush greenery and varieties of avian species. Plan a holiday with TripXL to this sanctuary and experience nature at its best.

Cover Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is an eye-opener that attracts tourists because of its flora and fauna and marvellous scenic beauty. It is also famous among bird watchers.
The most preferred season to visit the Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary is the early summer, between March and May, and the early winter from October to December.
Some things you can do at Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary include bird watching, scenic trails and spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.
2-3 days is more than enough for sightseeing and enjoying all attractions in and around Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary.
Visitors should have items such as water, snacks, good comfortable shoes, binoculars in case one wants to watch birds, a camera, hats and sunscreen. You can also carry emergency medicines such as a first aid box.
There are some reserved places in this sanctuary where people can enjoy a picnic. Just remember to leave the area clean and tidy without any damage to the environment and/or animals.

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