4 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Jodhpur | Wildlife around Jodhpur

Jodhpur with its rich cultural and historical heritage has ample varieties of flora and fauna present in and around the city. Situated on the Aravalli hills, Jodhpur used to be a hunting ground for the Maharajas even before its inception. With the formation of a full-fledged city, the wildlife in Jodhpur now exists on the outskirts of the city and their habitat is in the form of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries and measures have been taken to preserve and protect them. There are also many lakes in Jodhpur where you can go for a picnic boating and bird watching.

 List of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Jodhpur

Some of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Jodhpur are as follows:

1. Kheechan Natural Bird Sanctuary

Khichan is a small village situated at a distance of about fifty kilometers from Jodhpur and five kilometers from Phalodi. What makes Khichan unique is that it is a natural bird sanctuary due to the migration of birds called ‘Kurjans’, which are so named because of the noise they make while flying. Also known as ‘Karkara’ and ‘Kunch’, these birds are native to countries such as South Western Europe, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Poland, North and South Africa, the Black Sea, and Mongolia. Kurjans migrate to Khichan every year and for some time the flocks form a natural bird sanctuary in the village. Kheechan Natureal Bird Sanctuary in Jodhpur is the Best place to visit in Jodhpur.

2. Desert National Park, Gajanero

The Desert National Park in Gajner, in its vastness, offers its visitors camel safaris through the Thar Desert; Through all the forts, and Havelis, and gives an insight into the royal heritage and nomadic culture of Rajasthan, so it is a famous wildlife sanctuary in jodhpur. The national park is home to some of India’s most endangered species, such as blackbucks, chinkara gazelles, hyenas, and the rare Indian wolf. One can indulge in a number of activities in the desert, such as bird watching on the back of a camel, as camels allow the birds to come closer, giving you the perfect access to the activity. One can also see endemic species like Demoiselle Cranes, Indian and Hubara Bustards, etc. One must visit Gajner in the early morning or evening to see the Imperial Sandgrouse.

3.Machiya Safari Park

Machiya Safari Park is situated one kilometer away from Jodhpur city limits on the way to Jaisalmer. It is the best and most visited wildlife sanctuary near Jodhpur. For wildlife enthusiasts, the park offers a variety of flora and fauna. The main animals of Machiya Safari Park include Deer, Desert Fox, Monitor Lizard, Wild Cats, Mongoose, Monkey, Blue Bull, Rabbit, etc. Apart from these, the park also has a special bird-watching point from where one can spot a variety of numbers. of bird species, so it is a great place for bird watchers. There is also a fort within the park complex, which offers a spectacular view of the sunset. Overall, Machiya Safari Park is a great place for family tours and picnics with kids. After spending a day in Machiya Safari Park, check out some popular Heritage Palaces in Jodhpur.

4. Dhwa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary

Dhwa Doli Jodhpur Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of about forty kilometers on the way from Jodhpur to Barmer. The sanctuary is home to a large number of animals like blackbuck, chital, sambar, pheasant, antelope, desert rats, blue bulls, desert foxes, etc. Since there is no accommodation available in the sanctuary, one can visit this place. The best time to visit would be early morning or a few hours before sunset. For further assistance, you can contact the Forest Office located in the rural huts in the sanctuary.