Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary — Attraction in Uttarakhand

A famous tourist spot of Nainital, Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name because of the gold panning that was carried out in the river before it was converted into a sanctuary. It is conveniently nestled between two grand sanctuaries viz. Rajaji National Park and Corbett National Park.

The sanctuary comprises of two main sparkling streams named River Palain and River Mandal. The forests exude the grandeur of Bamboo, Sal and Sheesham trees, leaving the avid traveller bespectacled. It can be accessed from Kalagarh, Vantanvasa gate, Durgadevi and Kotdwar.

The wildlife sanctuary, founded in 1987, is a haven for a variety of flora and fauna from Asiatic Elephants to Tigers, Cheetals to Leopards, Deers and different species of reptiles. It also has as estimated 550 types of birds dwelling in the forest.

#Trivia: The Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is said to hold 6% of the world’s total aviary population. It is also home to the second largest population of Panthers and Tigers in the world.

From rare medicinal plants to a couple of endangered shrubs and herbs, Sonawadi is a wildlife enthusiasts paradise. The sanctuary is open from October 15 to June 15 and closes during monsoons.

Safari timing: Winter safari: 7 am to 10 am and 2 pm to 5:30 pm. Summer safari: 6 am to 9:30 am and 3...

The mismanagement at Vatanvasa gate is absolutely infuriating. Despite booking online, my assigned driver was nowhere to be found because, apparently, they take other jobs unless we personally chase them down a day in advance. Why even have a booking system if travelers are left stranded? The place has no network in the area of 10kms and the gate authorities do not help at all but tell you to head back even the gate has jeeps with vacant seats.

To make matters worse, the so-called forest officer, Ravindra, was completely useless—apathetic, dismissive, and unwilling to resolve anything. It felt like he was there just for show, with no real intention of helping visitors. And then there’s the blatant extortion—officials trying to squeeze extra money out of travelers under different pretexts. It’s nothing short of a scam disguised as a wildlife experience.

And let’s talk about the biggest deception—tiger sightings. Tourists are lured in with the hope of seeing one, only to realize it’s almost impossible here. If you actually want a chance, go to Dhikala. This whole system needs serious fixing—stricter oversight, honest communication, and an end to these...

Sonanadi was a part of the Kalagarh Reserve Forest and was formed into a sanctuary in 1987, converting an area of 301,17 sq km. It is significant as it functions as a corridor between Rajaji Tiger Reserve and Corbett Tiger Reserve. The FRH at Halduparao, built in 1987, is the only FRH in the sanctuary located on the banks of the Plain river. Halduparao is a good place to watch wild elephants from close quarters to...