10 places in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar that are a must visit for all wildlife lovers

When we think of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar , temples and heritage buildings come to mind. However, these two beautiful states of India are so much beyond the sacred ghats of Varanasi and Mughal architecture. These states are also blessed with a lesser-known and hidden wealth of wildlife. The states are home to Gangetic plains, undiscovered forests and rivers creating a unique ecosystem.

Here are 10 must-visit wildlife destinations across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh


The Pride of the Terai, Dudhwa in Lakhimpur Kheri district, is the crown jewel of Uttar Pradesh. Set along the Indo-Nepal border, this park is spread over 490 sq km. The park is a part of the larger Dudhwa Tiger Reserve . One can spot Royal Bengal Tigers here on a safari. Besides, the park is home to more than 400 bird species, including the Bengal florican and Sarus crane.

Best time to visit: November to June
Nearest city: Lakhimpur Kheri (50 km), Lucknow (230 km)

Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh


A lesser-known wildlife sanctuary, Katarniaghat in Bahraich district forms a crucial part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. The Girwa River flows through here, which helps a rich aquatic life in the region. If you plan your trip well, you might spot Gangetic dolphins also. Gharial and mugger crocodiles are also park residents. The park is also known for its population of tigers and elephants. When here, don’t miss out on boat safari on the Girwa River.

Best time to visit: November to May
Nearest city: Bahraich (100 km), Lucknow (210 km)

Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh


This one is all about scenic waterfalls and wilderness. The park is about 70 km from Varanasi in Chandauli district and offers a mixed scenery of forests and waterfalls. Absolutely stunning! Some major wildlife sightings include leopards, blackbucks and chital. Today, the park remains a favourite spot for picnic goers.

Best time to visit: October to March
Nearest city: Varanasi (70 km)

Surha Taal Bird Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh


Surha Taal Bird Sanctuary is close to Ballia in Uttar Pradesh. Every winter, the place hosts migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia. If you plan a trip during the winters, keep your eyes open for shovelers, teals, and red-crested pochards, among others, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Best time to visit: November to February
Nearest city: Ballia (6 km)

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh


This feathered paradise is set along the Lucknow-Kanpur highway. Another lesser-known gem in India, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary covers 224 hectares. The park attracts thousands of migratory birds during winters including purple herons and sarus cranes, to name a few. This place is also paradise for photographers who are interested in clicking birds in action.

Best time to visit: November to March
Nearest city: Unnao (25 km), Lucknow (45 km)

Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar


Not many must be aware of the fact that Valmiki is the only tiger reserve in Bihar. Set in West Champaran, this place is another best-kept secret of wildlife gems in India. Spread across 900 sq km, the reserve forms a corridor with Nepal’s Chitwan National Park. It’s a natural home to tigers, leopards, gaurs, and sloth bears. In addition, the park shelters 250 bird species making it a birdie’s heaven.

Best time to visit: November to June
Nearest city: Valmikinagar (5 km), Patna (275 km)

Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar


Bhimbandh in Munger district is a unique sanctuary mix of mythology and nature. The name comes from Bhima, a character from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. There are natural hot springs in the park which add to its uniqueness. Tigers, nilgais, and wild boars are among the prominent residents of the park.

Best time to visit: November to April
Nearest city: Munger (20 km)

Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary, Bihar


Did you know that Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary in Bihar’s Begusarai is the largest freshwater oxbow lake in India and a designated Ramsar site? Well, yes. This wetland supports more than 60 migratory birds including cranes and shovelers.

Best time to visit: November to March
Nearest city: Begusarai (22 km), Patna (120 km)

Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, Bihar


Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary in Nalanda district is associated with Lord Buddha and Mahavira. This park is spread across 35 sq km and is a natural home of leopards, sloth bears and peacocks. Visitors to the park can also enjoy a trek through the sanctuary with an afternoon visit to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa or Nalanda ruins.

Best time to visit: November to February
Nearest city: Patna (100 km)

Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary , Bihar


Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is set between Sultanganj and Kahalgaon in Bhagalpur district. It is India’s only sanctuary which is completely dedicated to the endangered Gangetic dolphin. The sanctuary is also home to otters, turtles, and several bird species. Boat safaris are available which offer a chance to witness dolphins, a rare experience.

Best time to visit: October to April
Nearest city: Bhagalpur (25 km)

So, next time when you plan a wildlife trip, do consider these amazing, lesser-known parks and sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.