A unique Wildlife Sanctuary

Covering an impressive 444 square kilometres, the Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary boasts a fascinating landscape of scrub forests, desert thorn forests, dry savannah-type vegetation, and seasonal wetlands.

This sanctuary, also known as Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary, hosts a diverse array of creatures, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. The chinkara population here, estimated to be between 1200 and 1500, truly makes it the star of the sanctuary. While it is the most commonly sighted animal, the sanctuary is also home to caracals, wolves, pangolins, porcupines, blue bulls, foxes, hyenas and desert cats. Additionally, it's a haven for renowned species like the great Indian bustard, floricans, black partridges, francolins, bulbuls, larks and numerous migratory birds.

With such a rich and varied ecosystem, the Narayan Sarovar Chinkara Sanctuary is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

One of the last remaining habitats of the Cheetah

The sanctuary’s desert forest is considered one of a kind in India. Nestled in the arid zone, it encompasses a seasonal wetland and is a habitat for 15 threatened wildlife species. The sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot with its rare animals, birds, and flowering plants. In fact, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has identified it as one of the last remaining habitats of the cheetah in India, making it a potential reintroduction site for the species.

Timings

Opening time - 07:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

More to explore

Beyond the sanctuary, Kutch offers many amazing attractions for you to discover. For instance, the Aina Mahal is a beautiful palace to visit, with its magnificent architecture that will leave you in awe. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Vijay Vilas Palace in Mandvi, which serves as a majestic reminder of the region's royal heritage. Another must-visit destination is the historic Bhujodi village, where you can see beautifully preserved huts that showcase traditional architectural styles. And, you can’t miss Dholavira, the ancient city of the great Indus Valley Civilisation.