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Gujarat

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary

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January

3.4 - 23.5 °C

February

6.0 - 26.5 °C

March

9.5 - 31.9 °C

April

13.8 - 38.6 °C

May

18.4 - 42.6 °C

June

20.4 - 43.4 °C

July

21.5 - 39.1 °C

August

20.9 - 36.0 °C

September

19.1 - 35.2 °C

October

14.3 - 33.9 °C

November

8.8 - 30.0 °C

December

4.7 - 25.6 °C


Major Airports :

Surat International Airport (STV), Surat

Nearest Railway Station :

Surat Railway Station (ST)

Major Airports :

Surat International Airport (STV), Surat

A glorious expanse coloured in lush green

Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Dang district, Gujarat, lies the majestic Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering an expanse of 160.84 sq. km, this sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering them a mesmerising blend of rolling hills, plateaus, and small valleys that make for the western and northern limits of the Western Ghats.

Located in the predominantly tribal district of Dangs, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a sanctuary in July 1990. It has the thickest forest cover in the state, with many rivers and rivulets flowing through it.

Venture amidst towering trees

The sanctuary is cradled by the pristine waters of the Purna River, from which it draws its name. Unlike much of Gujarat, this region experiences moderate to heavy rainfall, fostering a tropical moist deciduous forest. The verdant landscape is adorned with towering teak trees.

About 700 identified plant species among which grasses and broad-leaved plants in high density and diversity are found in the sanctuary. These include sadad, timru, khair, kalam, haldu, sisham (rosewood), salai, kadaya, killai, sevan and tanachh. The healthy stock of lofty bamboos especially attracts the visitors’ attention.

Into the Leopard's domain

The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wildlife. These include elusive leopards, rhesus macaques, bonnet macaques, Indian civet cats, Indian porcupines and the majestic four-horned antelope. The leopard is the main predator in the sanctuary and its population continues to grow steadily. Wild bulls, elephants and sloth bears are among the other animals found in the forest.

The avian population is equally impressive, with sightings of Common grey hornbill, grey jungle fowls, barbets, woodpeckers, shrikes, chloropsis, bee-eaters, flycatchers and an assortment of raptors delighting birdwatchers. The sanctuary's dense foliage provides a sanctuary for numerous species, offering glimpses into their natural habitats.


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A touch of tribal heritage

Beyond its natural splendour, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is steeped in tribal heritage, with indigenous communities such as Bhils, Warlis, Konkanas, Dubdas, and Kolchas calling it home. The vibrant tribal culture is reflected in their traditional houses, attire, jewellery, agriculture, fishing, music instruments and rhythmic folk dances. As dusk descends, distant sounds of folk dances, tribal songs and their improvised musical instruments – Pavry and drums – fill the air creating a magical mood and adding to the sanctuary’s allure.

A serene retreat in the wild

As you approach Mahal village, the gateway to Purna, you are greeted by the soothing melody of the river, setting the stage for a journey into the heart of nature. Nestled along the banks of the Purna River, this quaint village offers a rustic charm and serves as a base for nature education camps. The sanctuary's eco-campsite provides a serene retreat, with cottages offering picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness.

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