New Wildlife Sanctuary in Devbhumi Dwarka to Open on Dhanteras
Devbhumi Dwarka, October 27 : Gujarat is set to add a new attraction for tourists with the inauguration of the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary and Barda Jungle Safari Phase-1 at Kapurdi Checkpost on Dhanteras, October 29. The state’s Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera will preside over the inauguration ceremony, with special appearances from Jamnagar MP Poonamben Madam and legislators from Devbhumi Dwarka and Porbandar.
N. Srivastava, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Gujarat, explained that the Asiatic lions, renowned worldwide, are currently found only in the Junagadh forest range of Gujarat. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, efforts are underway for the conservation and growth of wildlife. As a result, visitors will now have the opportunity to witness the majestic Asiatic lions in the Barda hills. Currently, approximately 674 Asiatic lions are found in Gujarat, and the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Devbhumi Dwarka will provide a new, safe, and natural habitat for these iconic creatures.
Unique Features of Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is a rich habitat for diverse flora, wildlife, and a variety of colorful local and migratory birds. It is home to 368 plant species, including 59 types of trees, 83 herbs, 200 shrubs, and 26 climbers. Among these, shrubs constitute 54%, followed by 23% herbs, 16% trees, and 9% climbers. Khirni is one of the most significant species found here.
Wildlife in Barda Sanctuary
After nearly 14 decades, this forest area is once again witnessing the presence of Asiatic lions. Additionally, the sanctuary is home to 22 species of mammals, including leopards, wild cats, hyenas, small civet cats, foxes, and rabbits. Herbivores like deer, sambhar, chital, nilgai, and wild boars also inhabit this sanctuary. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, hosting 269 species of birds, including peacocks, partridges, milk kingfishers, and many more.
Exciting Barda Jungle Safari Phase-1
The Barda Jungle Safari offers tourists a chance to explore the most picturesque areas of Bhavnagar-Ranavav and the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. The safari takes visitors along the serene banks of the Kilganga River (situated in Devbhumi Dwarka), allowing them to witness the rich flora and fauna of the sanctuary. Visitors need to book permits in advance through the ticket window, and an online booking option will soon be available to facilitate easier access.
Geographical Setting of Barda Sanctuary
The Barda region, with its rolling hills and diverse topography, spans approximately 215 square kilometers, of which 192.31 square kilometers have been designated as a wildlife sanctuary under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. The sanctuary straddles two districts, Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka.
Accessibility to Barda Sanctuary
The sanctuary is well-connected by road, making it easily accessible from nearby cities like Porbandar, Jamjodhpur, Upleta, Jamnagar, and Junagadh. It is situated 170 kilometers from Rajkot and 430 kilometers from Ahmedabad. The nearest railway stations are Porbandar, 40 kilometers away, and Jamnagar, 82 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Rajkot, 190 kilometers from the sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit Barda Sanctuary
Tourists can visit the sanctuary from 6 AM to 4 PM. The sanctuary remains open during the winter season from October 16 to February 28-29 and the summer season from March 1 to June 15. It remains closed from June 16 to October 15.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Close to Barda Wildlife Sanctuary are popular tourist attractions such as the Navlakha Temple, Modpar Fort, Jambuvan Caves, and the famous Sudama, Kirti, Nageshwar, and Dwarakadhish temples. Visitors are invited to explore this new habitat of Asiatic lions and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Barda’s vibrant hills and rivers. A visit to Barda Wildlife Sanctuary promises an unforgettable journey through its rich biodiversity, offering peace and a joyous connection to nature.
