RAJGIR WILDLIFE SAFARI — Attraction in Rajgir

Rajgir Wildlife Safari, located in the lush, scenic hills of Rajgir, Bihar, offers a unique and refreshing experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This safari park, spread over acres of natural forest area, allows visitors to observe a variety of animals in their natural habitats while ensuring their safety through well-organized guided tours.

Wildlife Variety and Habitat

Rajgir Wildlife Safari offers a diverse range of species, including tigers, lions, leopards, and various species of deer. The enclosures are thoughtfully designed to resemble the animals' natural habitats, which makes the experience authentic and enjoyable. However, sightings can be hit or miss, as animals are sometimes hard to spot due to the dense forest cover. It’s a great opportunity to observe animals in an environment much closer to their natural surroundings than a typical zoo.

Natural Landscape and Scenery

Nestled in the scenic hills of Rajgir, the safari park boasts breathtaking views. Surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and serene lakes, the park creates a peaceful ambiance that enhances the experience. The scenic surroundings are ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The natural beauty adds to the overall feel of a wilderness adventure, far removed from urban life.

Guided Tours and Information

The guided tours provided are informative and led by knowledgeable staff who share insights on wildlife behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts. They are passionate about educating visitors, which adds an enriching layer to the experience. However, tours are sometimes a bit rushed due to the large number of visitors, and it would be beneficial if they allowed a bit more time for animal observations and photography.

Photography Opportunities

For photographers, Rajgir Wildlife Safari is a treat. The combination of wildlife and beautiful landscapes provides countless photo opportunities. The natural light and greenery make for stunning shots, especially early in the morning or close to sunset. However, the safari vehicle does not always stop for long at each location, so capturing that perfect shot can be challenging. Photographers may need to plan carefully and be quick with their cameras.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

Rajgir Wildlife Safari is relatively accessible by road, and the infrastructure within the park is generally well-maintained. However, during peak tourist seasons, long waiting times can be an issue. Additionally, accessibility can be impacted during the monsoon season when the paths become muddy and challenging to navigate. The park could benefit from more clear signage and improved amenities like restrooms and seating areas at waiting points.

Safety and Visitor Comfort

Review: Safety measures are well-implemented, with sturdy safari vehicles and clear guidelines on visitor behavior. The guides emphasize safety instructions, ensuring a secure experience for all visitors. While the vehicles are generally comfortable, some areas could benefit from better ventilation or shade, especially during the hotter months. Provisions for water and small snacks would add to visitor comfort, especially during longer tours.

Conservation Efforts and Eco-Friendliness

The park places a significant emphasis on wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability, which is commendable. They have implemented eco-friendly practices to reduce their environmental impact, including limited use of plastic and careful waste management. They also educate visitors about conservation, fostering awareness of protecting wildlife. Supporting the park helps contribute to these efforts, making the experience more meaningful for eco-conscious visitors.

Overall : Rajgir Wildlife Safari is an impressive destination for those looking to explore wildlife in a semi-natural setting. Each aspect, from the landscape to the knowledgeable guides, enhances the experience. There are minor areas for improvement, but with a little planning, visitors can enjoy a memorable, educational day...

It is a brilliant initiative, and really convenient to have a safari so near to Patna. It may not be a forest as dense as VTS, but the 472 acre area near to the Rajgir hills is beautiful in itself even in its inception. The amount of investment done is appreciable, and i hope in another two decades this place will be as beautiful and dense as the well canopied Patna zoo, boosting Rajgir's tourism potential further.

What you get to enjoy : A well sculpted garden, and campus like as in the Bihar Museum, adequate parking area for over a hundred cars, a museum, beautifully designed and well built Force traveller mini buses, long winding roads within the beautifully landscaped safari park, double enclosure secure gates, five safaris (Herbivore, Bear, Lion, Tiger, Leopard) as of now which will be increased to two more in the future (Zebra, Rhino). Additionally there is a small museum that showcases earth's geogolical evolution, evolution of man, few of the animals in the safari, and paintings. The ticket also allows you to watch a 3d cinema on the park and its animals, but I missed watching this, so can't comment.

The Air conditioned well built buses can seat around 15-20 visitors, a guide and driver. The Guide was informative, and strived his best to show us every animal, although except the herbivore safari, the other safaris had only a pair of animals each as of now and it was difficult to spot them.

What it lacks: Food is not available in the campus as of now, the animals are less in number currently, the buses though are air conditioned, comfortable and safe, lacked the feel an open gypsy gives in Jim Corbett park or elephant safaris give in Tadoba or Kaziranga.

What should improve : They drive too fast between safaris to keep timing. I believe one should maintain a slow speed and silence once in such zones to make it safe for animals, visitors and avoid wear and tear to the vehicles on the uneven terrain. The trips should be 1.5 hours and done slower at a set speed of 20-30 kmph.

Best time : As of now early mornings, try to get the 9 AM first slot. The place is arid and incredibly hot as the day advances. I guess in the monsoons this would be a wonderful place to visit.

Time taken : The whole trip took 1 hour (9.50 AM-10.50AM)

Cost : Around INR 250 (100 for entry , another 150 for trip) . They do not charge cameras, which I appreciate. (In fact it is too difficult to click within the bus, so be in the moment, watch with...

Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Nalanda district of Bihar, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across the scenic Rajgir hills, this sanctuary offers a blend of rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and a sense of tranquility that is rare to find. Unlike the more commercialized wildlife parks in India, Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary has an untouched charm that appeals to those who prefer calm surroundings and authentic experiences.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for eco-tourism. Visitors may come across animals like leopards, hyenas, jackals, nilgai, and several species of deer. It also shelters numerous birds, making it a delight for birdwatchers. The forested terrain, dotted with Sal, Teak, and Bamboo trees, adds to its scenic appeal. The best time to visit is during winter, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

Apart from wildlife, the sanctuary is significant for its cultural and historical surroundings. Rajgir itself is a town with deep connections to Buddhism, Jainism, and ancient Indian history. Visitors can combine a trip to the sanctuary with nearby attractions like the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Gridhakuta Hill, and the ancient ruins of Nalanda University. This makes the visit not only about nature but also about exploring India’s heritage.

One aspect to note is that facilities inside the sanctuary are basic, so it is advisable to carry essentials and plan accordingly. However, the simplicity enhances the raw, natural experience. For those who value peace, nature walks, and spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary offers a rewarding getaway.

Overall, it is a destination worth exploring for anyone who appreciates the harmony of wildlife, nature,...