Location : Uttar
Pradesh, India
Major Attractions : Rhino, Swamp Deer, Chital
Best time to Visit : November to May
About Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa
National Park is situated along the India-Nepal border in the north Indian
state of Uttar Pradesh. Consisting of swampy marshes, dense forests of teak
and lush grasslands, the varied landscape of Dudhwa has it all, along with
the plethora of animal and bird species that call the place home. The
northern edge of the park is made up of the Nepal border while the southern
boundary is marked by river suheli, which also provides a much needed source
of irrigation for the plants and animals of Dudhwa. The region has been a
protected reserve since 1879 and was accorded the status of a national park
in 1977.
Attractions at Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa's sprawling jungles provide a safe heaven to over 35 species of
mammals and 15 reptile species. There are an estimated number of 100 tigers
and leopards besides the hispid hare, which has also been spotted in the
area recently. Other animals found here include the swamp deer and rhinos.
The 400 species of birds found in the region include such magnificent
avians as the great slaty woodpecker, painted storks, owls, woodpeckers,
swamp partridge, sarus cranes and barbets. The major tree species that
provide ideal nesting ground for these birds include sorea robusta, adina
cordifolia, eugenia jambolina, bombax malabaricum and numerous other.
The most ideal way to feast your
senses on this plethora of flora and fauna is to take an elephant safari
through the uneven terrain. While the forest department does not provide
jeep safaris, private vehicles are allowed inside the park which provide you
an opportunity to closely observe these diverse species. Vehicles and guides
can be hired from private operators located near the park.
Stay At
Accommodation options at Dudhwa national park include the Dudhwa Forest
Rest House, located near the main range office and Tharu Huts, a group of 12
well appointed huts which can be booked at a price of rupees 1000 per hut.
Getting There
By Air : Lucknow is the nearest airport connected to
other major cities of India through regular flights. From Lucknow, one can
travel by a bus or a private taxi.
By Rail : The nearest railhead is located at Dudhwa,
however not many direct trains are available from other major Indian cities.
A recommended option is to travel by train to Lucknow and board a taxi or
bus to Dudhwa from there.
By Road : State transport buses operate regularly between
Dudhwa and Palia, Lakhimpur Kheri, Bareilly and Delhi. The forest entry gate
is located just 4 km from Dudhwa.
Important Information for Visitors
- Entry fee for the park is Rs. 50 while vehicle entry is charged at
Rs. 150.
- The park remains open from 7 to 10 AM and 3 to 6 PM every day.
- Elephant safari charges are Rs. 100 per head for about 3 hours.
- The entry permit to the park can be obtained from the director's
office at Lakhimpur Kheri.