Darrah Sanctuary

Rajasthan, known for its Forts and Palaces is also a home to a lot of endangered wild animals and birds. Though the environment of Rajasthan is not very much agreeable for greenery but still it is a shelter for many flora and fauna with a number of Wildlife Sanctuaries. The Darrah Wildlife sanctuary is thickly forested, lying along the southeastern border of Kota. This hilly sanctuary with thick forests is worth a visit. The Darrah sanctuary is spread over an area of 250 sq. km and is strategically located 50 km away from the town of Kota. In the days of yore, Darrah sanctuary used to be the royal hunting ground of the erstwhile maharaja of Kota before it was handed over to the government of India. The Darrah sanctuary was officially declared as a protected area in 1955.

Darrah sanctuary is densely wooded and is spread over a hilly terrain. Darrah wildlife sanctuary is thronged with various kinds of wild animals. Some of the resident species of this mysterious sanctuary are wolf, cheetah, nilgai, deer and wild boar. Today, the Darrah Sanctuary boasts of a rich wildlife population consisting of leopards, wolves, sloth bears and chinkaras.

The sanctuary is also home to a number of birds and reptiles. Adventure freaks and wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to a wonderful time at Darrah. Indeed from jungle safaris to treks, there are lots to see and do at the Darrah Sanctuary. Besides, The Darrah Sanctuary is lush with green foliage and many rare medicinal herbs and trees. The tourists seeking adventure and solitude indulge in trekking along the many mountain trails and in undertaking jeep safaris through the forested areas. DARRAH SANCTUARY OF RAJASTHAN IN INDIA

The Forest Department runs a Rest House at Darrah sanctuary but the amenities are very basic. The Darrah Sanctuary charges about Rs 20 entry fees for Indians and Rs 100 for foreigners. The Sanctuary timings are 10 am to 5 pm everyday. Tourists require a signed sanction from the local forest ranger to visit the Sanctuary. Such a sanction may also be obtained from the District Forest Office (0744-2321263) at Kota or from the Kota Tourist Reception Center (0744-2327695).

Sometimes due to incessant rains, the reserve is closed down during the monsoon months, from July to September. February to May is considered the best period to visit the sanctuary. Visiting the haunting Darrah sanctuary is a very rewarding experience as it provides not only the wild side of Rajasthan but also its rich past.