Sitabani Wildlife Reserve — Attraction in Uttarakhand

Wild and Wonderful. The adventure began even before we reached the reserve, with a beautiful winding drive through the jungle. We parked the car, and entered the property on foot, and after a short trek across a little lively stream and some wild brush, brough us to the main living area dotted with a with a few cottages, a kitchen and dining hut etc.  A prelude to the untamed beauty that awaited us. The accommodations were impressive; the rooms earthy and snug, clean and with all the conveniences. It had a large glass window with a cozy alcove – the perfect nook for reading or simply looking out of the window with a warm cuppa. The large terraces were also great for sitting out and birdwatching. Waking up and drawing the curtains revealed a breathtaking vista of the sprawling canopy that was Corbett. The rejuvenating monsoon greenery felt a whole world away from the greyness of the city. The sheer biodiversity on display was astounding. No manicured gardens. Indigenous plants and fruiting trees were placed with care and then left to grow wild to create a natural habitat for all creatures. The air hummed with the constant, living soundtrack of the ecosystem. We were fascinated by the different species of birds – doves, bulbuls, laughing thrushes, treepies, minivets, barbets, the resident peacock, spotted deer and twinkling fireflies. And made aware of the different animal calls announcing the presence of danger – a tiger or leopard on the prowl and luckily caught a glimpse of glowing eyes and a dark silhouette. The care and hospitality of the staff made our stay even more memorable. Meals were tasty, fresh, and wholesome, made from ingredients grown on the property or locally sourced. And guided by our host, we explored the in-house waterfall, learned about the flora and fauna, and were inspired by the passion for conservation behind this incredible place. It was a perfect escape, offering a brilliant mix of thrill and tranquillity. Highly...

This is a fascinating place for people who are truly and deeply in love with our forests, and also for people who are inclined to do so and are trying to put their foot in through the door.

For the latter, this is the most ideal baptism ceremony where Nature presents itself in myriad forms...

You can experience the thrill of trekking through tiger land at dawn when the early morning sun is still struggling to enter the deep ravines, and every rustle of leaf gives you a feeling that you are being watched.

Or you can loose yourself in thoughts under a starlit sky where the heavy stillness of the night is suddenly pierced by the bewitching alarm call of a barking deer which is alerted by a big cat on the prowl.

Or you can savour a delicious dinner outdoors in the flickering light of candles while using a powerful LED torch to catch the glowing stare of a leopard on the facing hill...

This place is mystical and magical and very very humbling... It also connects you to your deeper self and helps you to find new meaning and purpose in conserving what Nature has provided us all.

This is certainly not a place for everyone. But everyone will find a place for this forest in their hearts if they visit it with respect and love.

Abhishek has done a commendable job in creating Sitabani Wildlife Reserve (the name of his private estate) and I hope it stays the way I saw it first... raw, rather than refined.

Words of praise are also due to the excellent staff we met... Dinesh, Mahinder, Himanshu and Kanu (who came specially to cook for us during our stay). They were all so helpful, friendly and took such great care of us. Dinesh and Mahinder are local boys with a great understanding of the forests and the lay of the land, and one must trek through the forests with them to hear their jungle lore and to be ably guided for those "what if" situations...

I have deeply fallen in love with this place and am already looking forward to my...

Sitabani, situated near Ramnagar in Uttarakhand, is a nature lover's paradise with a unique blend of wildlife, tranquility, and a touch of mythology. This serene forest reserve, named after Sita from the Ramayana, offers an immersive experience for those seeking a retreat into nature.

One of Sitabani's notable features is its diverse flora and fauna. As a part of the Corbett landscape, the forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, deer, and a myriad of bird species. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find themselves enthralled by the rich biodiversity that thrives in this protected sanctuary.

The charm of Sitabani lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its mythological significance. Legend has it that Sita, after being banished, sought refuge in these woods. The Hanuman Garhi temple within Sitabani adds a spiritual touch to the area, making it a destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural tapestry of the region.

For adventure seekers, Sitabani offers jungle safaris where one can explore the wilderness and catch glimpses of the untamed beauty that calls this forest home. The rustling leaves, melodious birdcalls, and the occasional sighting of wildlife create an immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with nature on a profound level.

Sitabani's proximity to the Jim Corbett National Park further enhances its appeal, providing visitors with the opportunity to extend their wildlife adventure. Whether you're drawn by the allure of untamed landscapes, intrigued by mythology, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Sitabani in Ramnagar, Uttarakhand, unfolds as a sanctuary that embraces both the wild and the mythical, leaving an indelible mark on all who venture...