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Monday, July 24, 2023

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It was established in 1994 and covers an area of approximately 46 square kilometers. The sanctuary is situated along the banks of the Betwa River, which serves as one of the main sources of water for the wildlife living within the sanctuary.


The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various species, including Spotted Deer, Blue Bull, Peacock, Wild Pig, Monkey, Jackal, Nilgai, and Sloth Bear. While it may not offer sightings of tigers and leopards, it is a great place for birdwatching, earning it the nickname "Bird Sanctuary." 


Apart from wildlife observation, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary offers various adventure sports and outdoor activities, such as fishing, river rafting, canoeing, boating, trekking, camping, jungle trekking, and hiking.


Table of Contents

  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Location
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary History
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Area
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary River
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
    • Mammals
    • Birds
    • Reptile
  • Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions


Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the town of Orchha, which is situated in the Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh, India. The sanctuary lies on the banks of the Betwa River, and it borders the state of Madhya Pradesh with Uttar Pradesh. 


To be more precise, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 1 kilometer away from Chhatris and around 2 kilometers from Orchha Fort. 


Orchha itself is a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh, and the wildlife sanctuary adds to its appeal as one of the most scenic places in the region.


Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is Gwalior Airport (Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Airport), which is located approximately 85 kilometers away. Gwalior Airport is well-connected with regular flights from major cities like Bhopal, Mumbai, Indore, and Delhi.


Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, there are two options:


(i) Orchha Railway Station: Orchha has its own railway station, which is the closest one to Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary. It lies on the Jhansi – Allahabad route and is located within the town itself.


(ii) Jhansi Railway Station: Jhansi Railway Station is another option, situated around 16 kilometers from Orchha. Jhansi is well-connected to major cities in India by regular train services.




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary History

Orchha is a historic town in the Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh, India. It was once the capital of the Bundela Rajput kings and served as an important center of power and culture during the 16th and 17th centuries. The town is known for its grand palaces, temples, and cenotaphs (chhatris) that stand as a testimony to its glorious past.


The sanctuary itself was officially established in the year 1994, marking it as a relatively recent addition to the area's conservation efforts. Since its establishment, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary has been playing a vital role in protecting the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in its ecosystem, including various bird species and other wildlife.




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 46 square kilometers. It is situated in the town of Orchha, which is part of the Tikamgarh District in Madhya Pradesh, India.


Despite its relatively smaller size compared to some other vast wildlife sanctuaries, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. 




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the banks of the Betwa River. The Betwa River is a significant river in central India, flowing through the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. It serves as one of the main water sources for the wildlife living within the sanctuary.


The presence of the Betwa River adds to the scenic beauty and ecological significance of the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary. The river provides water to support the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the sanctuary's ecosystem. The lush vegetation and availability of water attract various wildlife species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, contributing to its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The sanctuary's vegetation consists of both native and planted species, creating a varied and vibrant ecosystem. Here are some of the significant ones found within the sanctuary:


Dhawa Trees (Anogeissus pendula): These deciduous trees are characteristic of the region and play a crucial role in the sanctuary's ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for various wildlife species.


Kardhai Trees (Anogeissus Spp): Another type of Anogeissus tree found in the sanctuary, contributing to the dense plantations and enhancing the habitat for wildlife.


Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is a valuable hardwood tree known for its durability and is often used in the timber industry. Its presence in the sanctuary provides valuable resources for both animals and humans.


Palaash (Butea monosperma): Also known as the Flame of the Forest, Palaash trees are known for their vibrant red or orange flowers, adding beauty to the sanctuary's landscape.


Khair (Acacia catechu): Khair is a thorny tree with medicinal properties and is commonly found in various parts of India, including the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary.


Bamboo: Bamboo groves may be present within the sanctuary, providing an essential habitat for certain animal species and adding to the overall biodiversity.


Other Shrubs and Undergrowth: Besides the prominent trees, the sanctuary likely hosts various shrubs, bushes, and undergrowth that contribute to the overall plant diversity.




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of animals, each contributing to the sanctuary's rich biodiversity and creating a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are some of the remarkable animals that can be found within the sanctuary:


Mammals:

  • Spotted Deer (Chital)
  • Blue Bull (Nilgai)
  • Monkey
  • Wild Boar
  • Jackal
  • Sloth Bear


Birds:

  • Peafowls
  • Swans
  • Jungle Bush Quail
  • Minivet
  • Stork
  • Kingfisher
  • Owls


Reptiles:

  • Various Snake Species
  • Monitor Lizard
  • Tortoises




Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary in which district?

A. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh, India. Tikamgarh is a district in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, and it is where the town of Orchha is situated. 

Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary

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