Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary with this comprehensive guide. Explore attractions, outdoor adventures, food, and culture.


Introduction to Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in Southeast Bengal, Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise that offers a treasure trove of wildlife and outdoor adventures. It is a protected forest, most famous for housing the Royal Bengal Tiger. Whether you’re seeking an adventure or a peaceful retreat, Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

To see the cultural side of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary, visit the Baneswar Temple and the Kendua Mosque. The Baneswar Temple is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva, a highly revered Hindu Deity. The temple is rich in architectural design and has intricate carvings all around, making it a popular pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

The Kendua Mosque is another highlight of the wildlife sanctuary. It’s a sixteenth-century mosque and a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims. With its stunning architecture, this mosque is a sight to behold.

Natural Attractions of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The primary draw of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is the diverse range of flora and fauna it offers. The sanctuary is home to more than 140 species of birds, including peafowls, flamingos, and Indian hornbills. If you’re lucky, you might spot a Royal Bengal Tiger or an Asian elephant while you’re exploring the sanctuary.

You can enjoy scenic views while taking a stroll through the lush green forests. Trekking enthusiasts can set out on a forest trail and indulge in a full-fledged hiking adventure. Additionally, you can take a safari ride through the wildlife sanctuary to discover the bountiful wildlife and natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

For hiking enthusiasts, Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect destination. There are various hiking trails that you can follow to explore the dense forests of the sanctuary. Saradharan is one of the most popular trekking routes, offering scenic views of the forests, hills, and waterfalls.

Mountain biking is another popular activity in the sanctuary. You can cycle your way through the sanctuary on various designated trails.

Best Things to Do in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Activities and Tours

Apart from trekking and cycling, Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary offers other activities that you can enjoy. You can take a boat ride and explore the serene water bodies within the sanctuary. You can also indulge in bird watching or even try your hand at fishing.

Guided tours are available in the sanctuary, allowing you to learn about the wildlife and the ecosystem of the sanctuary from knowledgeable guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

Here’s a week-long itinerary for your trip to Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary:

Day 1: Arrive in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary, relax and unwind after a long journey.

Day 2: Start the day with a safari ride through the sanctuary to explore the wildlife. Later, visit the Baneswar Temple and Kendua Mosque to witness the religious heritage of the sanctuary.

Day 3: Embark on a hiking or biking trail and explore the sanctuary’s dense forests.

Day 4: Take a boat ride in one of the sanctuary’s serene water bodies, go fishing or opt for bird watching.

Day 5: Visit the nearby villages and get to know the lifestyle and culture of the local people.

Day 6: Go on a full-day tour to explore the nearby attractions, such as Jayrambati Temple, Kamarpukur, and Sutan.

Day 7: Check out from your accommodation and depart from Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary.

Food and Drink Scene of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The food scene of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is a treat for food lovers. The sanctuary is known for its lip-smacking Bengali cuisine that includes fish, rice, and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes include Chingrir Malaikari, an authentic Bengali prawn curry, Aloo Posto, a potato and poppy seed-based curry, and Mishti Doi, a Bengali sweet curd.

When it comes to local beverages, you can sip on refreshing coconut water or flavorful sugarcane juice.

Where to Stay in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary has many accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Some popular options are Purbasha Eco-friendly Homestay, Neelkamal Guest House, and Anandamela Resort.

What to Buy in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Bibhutibhushan, you can buy beautiful handicrafts or paintings made by the local artisans, such as Dokra metal crafts or Pattachitra paintings. Also, you can purchase aromatic tea from the nearby tea plantations or fresh fruits from the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The locals of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. They follow the traditional customs and celebrate various festivals throughout the year, including Durga Pooja, Diwali, and Holi.

Best Time to Visit Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The best time to visit Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and February. The weather remains pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and their natural habitat.
  • Follow the instructions of the forest department officials.
  • Carry only essential items during the trek.
  • Dress appropriately, and wear comfortable shoes.

Don’t:

  • Litter the sanctuary or smoke within the premises.
  • Disturb the wildlife or pluck flowers.
  • Enter prohibited areas without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The wildlife sanctuary is relatively safe; however, there are chances of encountering wild animals during treks and safaris. Therefore, it’s imperative to follow the instructions from the forest officials and avoid ‘off-limits’ areas.

Health in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

While visiting Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary, it’s essential to stay hydrated, carry sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing to avoid sunburn. Also, carry insect repellent and take necessary precautions against diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and typhoid.

Getting to Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is about 160 km from the wildlife sanctuary.

Bus Stations Near Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the best ways to reach Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is by bus. Regular bus services are available from Kolkata, Bankura, and other nearby cities to Jhargram, which is about 25 km from the wildlife sanctuary.

Other Options

You can also reach Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary by hiring a taxi from Kolkata or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

The best way to explore the sanctuary is on foot. Trekking and hiking trails are accessible, and you can explore the sanctuary’s flora and fauna while walking.

Where to Go Next from Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

You can explore the nearby attractions such as Jayrambati Temple, Kamarpukur, and Sutan, which are within a radius of 25 km from the wildlife sanctuary.

Conclusion

Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is a great destination for travelers seeking a blend of wildlife, history, culture, and adventure. With plenty of attractions, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone at this sanctuary. Plan your trip to Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary and experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Eastern India.