Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve.

The Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as an important wildlife corridor between the Corbett Tiger Reserve and the Rajaji National Park. 

The sanctuary is named after the Sonanadi River, which flows through its territory. The diverse topography of the sanctuary includes dense forests, hills, and riverine tracts, providing a variety of habitats for wildlife.

Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nainital and Pauri Garhwal districts of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is the Pantnagar Airport. It is situated in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, and is approximately 120 to 130 kilometers (about 75 to 81 miles) away from the sanctuary, depending on the specific entry gate.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is Ramnagar Railway Station. It is situated in Ramnagar town, which is around 30 to 35 kilometers (approximately 19 to 22 miles) away from the sanctuary, depending on the specific entry gate.

Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is closely linked with the larger context of conservation efforts in the region and the establishment of the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

1. Early Conservation Efforts: The region that now comprises the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary was once extensively forested and inhabited by a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and various other fauna. As human settlements expanded and economic activities grew, these forests faced increasing threats from deforestation, hunting, and habitat destruction.

2. Creation of Corbett National Park: In 1936, the famous Jim Corbett National Park (earlier known as Hailey National Park) was established in the area. Named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, the park was India's first national park and aimed to protect the endangered Bengal tiger and other wildlife species.

3. Expansion and Formation of Corbett Tiger Reserve: In 1973, the Indian government launched "Project Tiger," a conservation initiative aimed at protecting the endangered tiger species. Under this project, the Corbett National Park was declared a tiger reserve, and its boundaries were expanded to include the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary.

4. Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1987, the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary was established to serve as a buffer zone for the Corbett Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 301.18 square kilometers and helps provide a safe passage for wildlife between Corbett National Park and the Rajaji National Park, further enhancing biodiversity conservation in the region.

Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is a part of Terai Arc Landscape.

The Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as an important habitat for several endangered species. The sanctuary is characterized by dense forests, grasslands, and numerous streams and rivers that flow through the area.

Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nainital district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airpot is at Pantnagar about 48 km away. From Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

Kathgodam is the nearest major railway station to the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, located at a distance of approximately 90 kilometers (about 56 miles) to the southeast.

Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary is deeply intertwined with the region's conservation efforts and the recognition of its ecological significance. Here are some key milestones in the sanctuary's history:

1. Formation and Declaration: Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in 2012 and opened its gates to visitors in 2015. The government of Uttarakhand recognized the need to protect the unique biodiversity and natural habitat of the area, leading to its declaration as a wildlife sanctuary.

2. Previous Land Use: Before its establishment as a wildlife sanctuary, the Nandhaur region was primarily used for agricultural purposes and had been subject to deforestation and habitat degradation. The conversion of the area into a protected sanctuary aimed to conserve and restore the natural ecosystem.

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC)

The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary, is a popular wildlife reserve located in Uttarakhand, India. It is named after the Benog Hill, which is a prominent feature within the sanctuary. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of famous Rajaji National Park.

Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The region attracts a large number of migratory birds during the winter months, making it a great spot for bird watching.

The sanctuary offers several trekking routes and nature trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. These trails provide an opportunity to observe the wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Benog Wildlife Sanctuary/Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is the Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. It is approximately 60 kilometers away from Mussoorie. 

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Benog Wildlife Sanctuary/Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is the Dehradun Railway Station. It is situated in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers away from Mussoorie.

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary) has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era in India. Here's a brief overview of its history:

1. Colonial Connection: The area where the sanctuary is located was once a favorite retreat for the British during the colonial period. It was known for its cool climate and scenic beauty, attracting British officials and tourists alike.

2. Establishment: The sanctuary was established in 1993 with the objective of conserving the local flora and fauna in the Mussoorie region. It was initially named the Mussoorie Wildlife Range and later renamed as the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary.

3. Naming: The sanctuary gets its name from Benog Hill, which is an important feature within its boundaries. It is also known as Vinog Mountain Quail Sanctuary. 

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is also known as the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary. It is named after the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country.

The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, pristine landscapes, and rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is characterized by high mountains, snow-clad peaks, alpine meadows, dense forests, and glacial rivers. 

The sanctuary boasts a wide range of vegetation due to its varying altitude and climatic conditions. The lower regions of the sanctuary are covered with dense forests consisting of oak, pine, deodar, and rhododendron trees. As the altitude increases, these forests give way to alpine meadows, shrubs, and grasslands.

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS) is located in the Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts of the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the largest protected areas in the state. The sanctuary lies in the upper catchment of the Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is the Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is approximately 230 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, the Rishikesh Railway Station is the closest one to the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. It is approximately 207 kilometers away.

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is closely tied to the religious significance of the region and the conservation efforts in Uttarakhand.

1. Early Importance: The region around Kedarnath has long been considered sacred due to the presence of the Kedarnath Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Lord Shiva) in Hindu mythology. Pilgrims have been visiting the area for centuries, leading to the establishment of several pilgrimage routes and infrastructure.

2. Wildlife Conservation Initiatives: In the 20th century, awareness grew about the need to protect the rich biodiversity of the region. Efforts were made to preserve the unique flora and fauna in and around Kedarnath. 

3. Establishment: In 1972, the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established to provide legal protection and conservation measures for the area's wildlife.

4. Natural Disasters: The Kedarnath region has also witnessed significant natural disasters. In 2013, devastating floods and landslides caused widespread destruction in the area, including loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Efforts were subsequently undertaken to rebuild and restore the region's ecological balance.

5. Conservation and Ecotourism: Over the years, the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary has remained a focus of conservation efforts, with measures in place to protect the diverse wildlife and their habitats. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for responsible ecotourism, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty while promoting conservation and sustainable practices.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of animal and plant species. 

One of the major attractions in the sanctuary is the Binsar Zero Point. It offers panoramic 360-degree view of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Shivling and Panchachuli. This viewpoint is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is also known for its trekking trails, which provide opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to explore the surrounding wilderness. These trails take visitors through dense forests, meadows, and picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of the abundant wildlife and natural beauty of the region.

In addition to its natural beauty and wildlife, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary also has a historical significance. It houses the Binsar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which attracts pilgrims and devotees throughout the year.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the Kumaon region of the state. Due to its location, it offers spellbinding views of the majestic Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Shivling and Panchachuli. 

The sanctuary is about 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) north of the town of Almora. The nearest major city is Nainital, which is approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles) away from the sanctuary. 

How to reach Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away. From Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary History

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich history that dates back several centuries. The area around Binsar has been inhabited since ancient times, and it holds cultural and historical significance.

1. Ancient Settlements and Chand Dynasty: Binsar has a history of ancient human settlements, with evidence of human habitation in the area since ancient times. The Chand dynasty, which ruled over the Kumaon region from the 7th to 18th century AD, made Binsar their summer capital. Binsar served as an important center of power and administration for the Chand rulers. The Chand dynasty built temples and structures in the region, showcasing their cultural and architectural influence.

2. Establishment of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in 1988 with the primary objective of conserving the diverse flora and fauna of the region. It aimed to protect the habitat of rare and endangered species found in the Himalayan broadleaf and coniferous forests.

3. Named after the Bineshwar Mahadev Temple: Locals believe that Binsar got its name from the Bineshwar Mahadev temple, a 16th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple holds historical and religious significance in the region, and its presence has contributed to the naming of the sanctuary.

Askot Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Askot Wildlife Sanctuary, also knows as Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary, is a protected area located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The sanctuary area is known as ‘Green Paradise on the Earth’.

This sanctuary has been set up primarily with the object of conserving the Musk Deer (Moschus leucogaster) and its habitat. 

Askot Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Askot Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the western part of the Kumaon Himalayas. The sanctuary encompasses an area that spans across the Askot-Munsiyari and Pancheshwar regions of the district. The town of Askot, from which the sanctuary derives its name, is located within its boundaries. 

To reach the sanctuary, one can travel to Pithoragarh town, which serves as a gateway to the region, and then proceed towards Askot, which is approximately 54 kilometers (34 miles) away. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Askot Wildlife Sanctuary is the Pantnagar Airport (also known as Naini Saini Airport) located in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. It is approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles) away from the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Askot Wildlife Sanctuary is Tanakpur Railway Station, located in Tanakpur, Uttarakhand. It is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) away from the sanctuary.

Askot Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Askot Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich historical background. The region around Askot has been of strategic importance for centuries due to its location near the Indo-Tibetan border. Here's the information about the history of Askot Wildlife Sanctuary:

1. Katyuri Kingdom: During the medieval period, Askot served as the capital of the Katyuri kings who ruled the region. The Katyuri dynasty left a mark on the history of Askot and its surrounding areas.

2. Chand Dynasty of Kumaon: The Askot region later came under the control of the Chand dynasty of Kumaon. The Chand rulers recognized the strategic importance of the area and maintained control over it to defend their kingdom from external threats.

3. British Colonial Period: In the 19th century, Askot became part of the British Indian territories. The region was considered a buffer zone to prevent incursions from Tibet and neighboring regions. The dense forests of Askot provided valuable resources for the British administration.

4. Establishment of Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary: In 1986, the government of Uttarakhand declared the region as the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary. The sanctuary aimed to protect the endangered Himalayan musk deer species, recognizing the ecological significance of the area.

5. Upgradation to Askot Wildlife Sanctuary: In 2009, the sanctuary was upgraded and renamed as the Askot Wildlife Sanctuary. This upgrade expanded the scope of conservation efforts to encompass a wider range of species and habitats present in the sanctuary.

6. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary Eco Sensitive Zone: In December 2021, Askot Wildlife Sanctuary has been declared as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) by the Union Environment Ministry.

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, India. 

The Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It is primarily composed of moist deciduous forests, grasslands, and marshes. The sanctuary provides a habitat for various wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. 

The sanctuary is home to a variety of avian species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. It is known for its resident and migratory birds.

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shravasti, Balrampur and Gonda districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, near the border with Nepal. The sanctuary is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) north-east of Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is the Lucknow Airport (Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) away from the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary is the Balrampur Railway Station, which is located in Balrampur district, Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) away from the sanctuary.

Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary History

Establishment: The Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1988 with the aim of conserving the biodiversity of the Terai region in Uttar Pradesh, India.