The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, India. It was established in 1985 and covers an area of approximately 423 square kilometers. The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is located near the Koyna River and is surrounded by lush green forests and towering mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors.
The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week.
The entry fee for the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indian adults and INR 25 for Indian children. Foreign tourists are charged INR 300 per person.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including species like tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, and a variety of bird species. The diverse ecosystem of the sanctuary supports a rich biodiversity that attracts wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
Visitors to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy activities like nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. The sanctuary also organizes jeep safaris and guided tours for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
The charges for a jeep safari in the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary vary based on the duration of the safari and the number of people participating. On average, the cost of a jeep safari ranges from INR 800 to INR 1500 per person.
There is no specific age criterion for entry into the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. However, the entry fee for Indian adults is INR 50, for Indian children it is INR 25, and for foreign tourists, it is INR 300 per person.
The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary provides special facilities for senior citizens, including wheelchair access to certain areas of the sanctuary and discounted entry fees for elderly visitors.
The best time to visit the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the ideal time for wildlife spotting and enjoying outdoor activities in the sanctuary.
There are several tourist attractions near the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, including the Koyna Dam, Kaas Plateau, Thoseghar Waterfalls, and the hill station of Mahabaleshwar. These places offer additional opportunities for sightseeing and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary provides ample parking space for visitors who choose to drive to the sanctuary. There is designated parking available near the entrance for cars, buses, and other vehicles.
Visitors to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Some of the key regulations include not littering, not feeding the animals, and not making excessive noise that may disturb the wildlife.
The Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from major cities like Pune and Mumbai. The nearest airport is in Pune, approximately 190 kilometers away from the sanctuary. Visitors can also reach the sanctuary by train, with the nearest railway station being at Satara, around 60 kilometers from the sanctuary.
Overall, the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and observe a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the sanctuary has something to offer for everyone.