History of Dudhwa National Park
Discover the rich history of Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary and Kishanpur Sanctuary — from royal hunting grounds to protected wildlife zones in Uttar Pradesh.
History of Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat & Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuaries
If you're planning a wildlife tour in Uttar Pradesh, it's worth knowing the rich history behind some of India’s most beautiful national parks. The Dudhwa National Park, along with Katarniaghat and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuaries, forms a major part of the Terai Arc Landscape. These protected areas are not only home to Bengal tigers and Indian rhinoceros, but also attract tourists, researchers, bird watchers, and nature lovers from around the world.
History of Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa National Park is located in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh. It covers an area of about 490 square kilometers and lies close to the peaceful town of Palia Kalan. The forest is known for its dense sal trees, grasslands, and wetlands.
The history of Dudhwa goes back to 1958, when it was first declared a wildlife sanctuary. In 1977, it became a national park under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The park was mainly created to protect the swamp deer (barasingha), which were slowly disappearing from the region.
Over the years, Dudhwa has become a safe home for Bengal tigers, elephants, leopards, and the rare Indian rhinoceros. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species of birds, including the Sarus crane, Bengal florican, and the Great Slaty Woodpecker.
Today, Dudhwa is one of the top wildlife tourism spots in India. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, bird watching, and eco-tourism activities. The forest department has also started many anti-poaching programs and nature education campaigns to protect its rich biodiversity.
History of Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the River Girwa and spreads across 400 square kilometers. It was declared a sanctuary in 1975 to protect its rich animal and plant life.
This area was once part of the ancient Awadh kingdom and was used as a hunting ground during British rule. After India gained independence, it became clear that the wildlife needed protection, and the sanctuary was officially created.
Katarniaghat is famous for its unique mix of species. It is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian rhinoceros, gharials, and several reptiles and birds. The river safari is a big attraction here, especially for those who want to see gharials and freshwater dolphins.
Today, the sanctuary is not only popular with tourists but is also an important center for scientific research and conservation. The forest department works hard to keep the area safe from poachers and deforestation. It plays a big role in promoting wildlife tourism and eco-tourism in Uttar Pradesh.
History of Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary is another key part of this forest belt. Located in Lakhimpur Kheri, it covers around 227 square kilometers. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1972 under the Wildlife Protection Act.
Like Dudhwa and Katarniaghat, Kishanpur was once used for hunting by the British. After independence, it became a reserve forest and was later upgraded to a sanctuary.
Kishanpur is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, swamp deer, sambar, and over 300 bird species. It is especially popular among bird watchers for its diverse avifauna. The area offers peaceful jeep safaris and quiet nature walks, making it ideal for families and nature lovers.
The sanctuary is managed by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, which runs anti-poaching units and community awareness programs to protect the local wildlife.
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Tour Packages
Dudhwa Fun Tour
02 Days / 01 Night | 01 Jeep Safari
Experience the wild beauty of Dudhwa National Park on the Dudhwa Fun Tour. One thrilling Jeep Safari, endless forest views, and a chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Dudhwa Holiday Tour
03 Days / 02 Night | 02 Jeep Safari
Explore sal forests with the Dudhwa Holiday Tour. Enjoy two exciting Jeep Safaris, spot exotic wildlife, and natural charm of Dudhwa forest over a perfect weekend.
Dudhwa Adventure Tour
04 Days / 03 Night | 04 Jeep Safari
Dudhwa Adventure Tour offers thrilling Jeep Safaris across dense jungles. Discover hidden wildlife trails, spot majestic tigers in the heart of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.
Dudhwa & Katarniaghat
04 Days / 03 Nights | 03 Jeep Safari
Explore two wild wonders in one trip with the Dudhwa & Katarniaghat Tour. Enjoy Jeep Safaris and a peaceful boat ride through dense forests and rich wetlands.
Kishanpur Fun Tour
02 Days / 01 Night | 01 Jeep Safari
Discover hidden wildlife gems with the Kishanpur Fun Tour. A quick escape packed with one thrilling Jeep Safari, lush forest trails.
Kataniaghat Fun Tour
02 Days / 01 Night | 01 Jeep Safari
The untouched wilderness. Enjoy a thrilling Jeep Safari, spot elephants, gharials, and birds in one of Uttar Pradesh’s forest reserve.
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