Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary: Wander The Wildlife Wonder Of Uttar Pradesh

An image of a grey elephant walking on green grass in Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

The Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is a secret treasure for those who enjoy the outdoors activities and wildlife. This Sanctuary spans 452 square kilometres and is distinguished by its various habitats, which include thick woods, grasslands, and wetlands. Suhelwa, founded in 1986, is critical to the survival of several species, such as endangered swamp deer and other migrating birds. Suhelwa Animal Sanctuary, with its peaceful scenery and abundant animals, is a perfect destination for eco-tourists and adventure enthusiasts.

Location

Giraffes gracefully grazing beneath a tree in Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

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Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Nestled amongst the lush woods of the Terai area, the Sanctuary is around 20 kilometres from Balrampur and 150 kilometres from the busy metropolis of Lucknow. It is flanked to the east by the thick woods of Dudhwa National Park, forming an important biological corridor.

How To Reach Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Two water buffaloes in the Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, with the vibrant sun hue in the background

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By Air: Lucknow Airport is the closest airport to Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, around 150 km away. Visitors from Lucknow can reach the Sanctuary by cab or bus.

By Train: Balrampur Railway Station is around 20 km from the Sanctuary. Local transport options from the train station to Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary include taxis and auto-rickshaws.

By Road: Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary can be easily reached by road, making it ideal for travellers who drive automobiles or use buses. The refuge is connected to adjacent towns and cities via well-maintained roadways. Visitors can reach Balrampur via National Highway 28 or State Highway 31, then take local roads to the Sanctuary.

Places To Visit Near Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

Here listed are some prominent places to visit near the Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary:

1. Dudhwa National Park

A small pond and birds   in Dudhwa National Park, an ideal spot for wildlife lovers

Photo: Anindya 2205 / Wikimedia Commons

Dudhwa National Park, situated around 30 km east of Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, is a popular wildlife destination in Uttar Pradesh. This national park, spanning over 1,000 square kilometres, is well-known for its different habitats, which include thick forests, grasslands, and marshes. It provides critical habitat for endangered animals such as swamp deer and one-horned rhinoceros. Visitors may take exhilarating jeep safaris and guided excursions to see the abundant biodiversity.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹ 100

2. Panchkhal Lake

 View of a the lake surrounded by lush forest, a popular destination

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Panchkhal Lake, located about 25 km from Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, is a hushed and attractive site noted for its breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by rich foliage and hills, the lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise, drawing many migrating species, particularly during winter. Visitors may take calm boat excursions and stroll along the lake. The region also allows for picnics and relaxing, making it an ideal respite from the rush and bustle of daily life.

Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: None; charges may apply for boat rides

3. Nagarjuna Dham

View of the Nagarjuna Dham, one of the best tourist attractions near Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary

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Nagarjuna Dham, located around 30 km from Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, is an important pilgrimage destination devoted to Lord Buddha. This beautiful temple complex is rich in history and spiritual value, drawing both believers and tourists. The site boasts stunning architecture, including finely built stupas and monasteries representing the region’s Buddhist solid past. Visitors can explore the quiet surroundings, meditate, and learn about Buddhist teachings.

Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: None

4. Bishrampur

View of the lush greenery of Bishampur, a quaint town nearby

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Bishrampur, around 25 km from Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, is a lovely town noted for its rich cultural legacy and historical significance. The area is home to numerous historic temples with excellent architecture that serve as significant spiritual locations for local believers. Visitors may explore the bustling marketplaces to learn about the local culture and purchase traditional goods. The people’s warm friendliness and the town’s peaceful atmosphere make Bishrampur an appealing tourist destination.

Timings: Open all day (best during daylight)
Entry Fees: None

5. Kushinagar

Beautiful view of Kushinagar, a Buddhist pilgrimage site

Photo: myself / Wikimedia Commons

In Uttar Pradesh, Kushinagar is a major Buddhist pilgrimage place noted for its rich historical and spiritual history. This calm village is well-known as where Lord Buddha obtained Mahaparinirvana or ultimate enlightenment. Visitors may visit the spectacular Mahaparinirvana Temple, which includes a reclining Buddha statue and the adjoining Rambhar Stupa, commemorating Buddha’s cremation location.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indian citizens, ₹300 for foreign nationals

Where To Stay

An image showing a luxurious hotel room interior showcasing modern design

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Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary offers a variety of housing alternatives to suit a variety of interests and budgets. Nearby Balrampur, hotels like Hotel Ganga and Hotel Shankar offer pleasant lodging with basic facilities. Visitors may have a more immersive experience by staying at eco-friendly resorts and lodges near the Sanctuary, such as Suhelwa Jungle Resort, which is close to the environment and animals.

Where To Eat

A thali served at an eatery nearby, offering the local flavours

Photo: Utkarshkmr27 / Wikimedia Commons

While visiting Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, guests may sample various eating alternatives in neighbouring Balrampur. Local restaurants feature traditional North Indian food, with popular dishes including biryani, kebabs, and vegetarian thalis. Restaurants such as Hotel Ganga and Hotel Shankar serve both Indian and continental cuisine, appealing to a variety of tastes.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit this place of the winter stretch of the year

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The best time to visit Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is from November through March. The weather is pleasant during these months, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it perfect for animal viewing and outdoor recreation. This period corresponds with the winter migration season, drawing a wide range of species and increasing the Sanctuary’s biodiversity.

Other Factors To Consider

Two deers amidst the lush landscapes of the  Suhelwa wildlife sanctuary

Photo: David Rama / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip:

The typical cost of a vacation to Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary varies depending on travel preferences and options. Budget travellers often pay 3,000 to 5,000 per person on a day excursion, which includes transportation, lunch, and admission fees. Average hotels and eco-resorts often demand higher prices, between ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 / night. It’s best to budget for extra costs for activities like safaris, photography, and local souvenirs, which can improve the whole experience.

Tips For Travellers:

  • Plan your trip during November and March for more excellent weather and extraordinary animal viewing.
  • Packing essentials include binoculars, a decent camera, comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, and bug-repellant to improve your experience.
  • Bring water bottles, especially if you plan on exploring during the day.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to understand the sanctuaries and animals better.

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary combines natural beauty with animal adventure, making it a perfect location for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors may have a wonderful experience because of the area’s different ecosystems and adjacent attractions. To make the most of your vacation, try booking with TripXL, which offers personalised itineraries and travel packages to improve your experience.

Cover Photo: Alexey Demidov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, organised jeep safaris are available, with guided trips providing more excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Families with children are welcome, but parents must monitor their youngsters, particularly during wildlife expeditions.
Pets are prohibited at Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary to protect wildlife and preserve the natural ecosystem.
Because mobile network service may be restricted in some sanctuary sections, it is best to notify someone of your trip plans in advance.
Yes, adjacent villages celebrate local holidays such as Holi and Diwali, allowing visitors to learn about local culture and traditions.

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