MAHANANDA WILDLIFE

Nestled between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers on the foothills of the Himalayas in the Darjeeling district, it is a reserved forest area spread across 158 sq km radius. The main entrance to the sanctuary is from Sukna which is about 30 minutes from Siliguri. Regular Safaris are offered in one’s own vehicle and it takes 2.5 hours to complete the entire circuit. There are 330 different types of plants, while the forest is said to have 150 odd elephants.

The views from here are spectacular with grassy meadows on one side, the flowing Mahananda river on the other and mountains as the backdrop. Rare birds and exotic species of mammals can be sighted at the sanctuary. One can spot Tigers, Himalayan black bear, rare mountain goat, porcupines, golden cats, sambar, Indian bison, wild boards, monkey and black capped langur.

The sanctuary is also home to 243 different species of birds including many migratory birds who flock here from Central Asia. The sanctuary has many tourist facilities and a lodge for accommodation run by the state government as well.

Location: Sukna, Hill Cart Road.

Timing: 8 am to 4 pm daily.

Price:
-Rs 50 per person,
-Guide Rs 150,
-Vehicle – Rs 100, and
-Camera – Rs 100.

Best time to visit: November to April.