Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a scenic and biodiverse sanctuary located at the foothills of Sajjangarh Fort (Monsoon Palace) in Udaipur. Spanning over 5.19 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to a variety of flora, fauna, and exotic bird species, making it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Established in 1987, the sanctuary was once the hunting grounds of the Mewar royal family but was later converted into a protected forest reserve. The sanctuary offers hiking trails, wildlife safaris, and stunning views of Udaipur's lakes and hills, providing a perfect blend of nature and history.
For visitors looking to escape the bustling city and explore Rajasthan’s natural beauty, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit attraction.
History of Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Originally, the forests surrounding Sajjangarh Fort served as royal hunting grounds for the Maharajas of Mewar. In the 19th century, Maharana Sajjan Singh (after whom the sanctuary is named) envisioned this area as a monsoon retreat and nature reserve, but his plan was left incomplete after his early demise.
In 1987, the Government of Rajasthan declared the region a wildlife sanctuary to protect its diverse ecosystem and promote ecotourism. Since then, it has become a safe haven for wildlife, offering a natural retreat for both animals and visitors.
Flora and Fauna at Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Flora
The sanctuary is a dry deciduous forest, dominated by trees like:
- Dhok (Anogeissus pendula)
- Salar (Boswellia serrata)
- Babool (Acacia nilotica)
- Bamboo Groves
Lush grasslands and water bodies create a rich habitat that supports a diverse range of animals and birds.
Fauna
Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to:
- Mammals:
- Leopards
- Hyenas
- Jackals
- Wild Boars
- Nilgai (Blue Bull)
- Chital (Spotted Deer)
- Sambar Deer
- Indian Fox
- Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- Monitor Lizards
- Cobra and Vipers
- Birds: (Perfect for Birdwatching)
- Peacocks
- Kingfishers
- Grey Hornbills
- Parakeets
- Drongos
With its rich biodiversity, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Best Things to Do at Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wildlife Safari: Take a jeep safari through the sanctuary to spot leopards, deer, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
- Trekking & Hiking: Hike up to Sajjangarh Fort (Monsoon Palace) through the scenic jungle trails.
- Sunset View from Monsoon Palace: Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Udaipur’s lakes and Aravalli Hills.
- Birdwatching & Photography: Capture stunning shots of colorful birds, animals, and panoramic landscapes.
- Nature Walks & Picnics: Relax and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the lush green surroundings.
For adventure seekers and nature lovers, the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an exciting and offbeat destination in Udaipur.
How to Reach Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is located 5 km from Udaipur city center, near Fateh Sagar Lake and Monsoon Palace.
- By Car/Taxi: A 20-minute drive from City Palace or Lake Pichola.
- By Auto-Rickshaw: Easily available but may not be ideal for the steep uphill road.
- By Trekking: Adventurous visitors can hike through the forest trails to Monsoon Palace.
- By Safari Jeep: Visitors can book wildlife safaris inside the sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Timings: Open daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹300 for Foreigners. Jeep Safari: ₹300 per person.
- Best Season: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for wildlife spotting and trekking.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active.
- Special Note: The sanctuary is especially beautiful during the monsoon season, when the forest turns lush green.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, visit these nearby attractions:
- Monsoon Palace (Inside the Sanctuary) – A historic hilltop palace offering panoramic views of Udaipur.
- Fateh Sagar Lake (3 km away) – A beautiful lake, perfect for boating and sunset views.
- Saheliyon Ki Bari (5 km away) – A royal garden with fountains, marble pavilions, and lush greenery.
- Shilpgram (6 km away) – A rural arts and crafts complex, showcasing traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and folk performances.
Cafés & Restaurants Near Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Since there are no restaurants inside the sanctuary, visitors can explore nearby cafés in Udaipur city:
- Panna Vilas Restaurant & Lounge – Overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake, serving multi-cuisine dishes.
- Jhumar Restaurant – Known for authentic Rajasthani cuisine and lake views.
- Upré by 1559 AD – A fine-dining restaurant offering delicious meals with panoramic views.
Essential Travel Tips for Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if planning to hike to Monsoon Palace.
- Carry water and light snacks, as there are no food stalls inside the sanctuary.
- Book a Jeep Safari in advance, as wildlife spotting is best with an experienced guide.
- Carry binoculars and a camera for birdwatching and photography.
- Avoid littering and respect the sanctuary’s wildlife and ecosystem.
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Location |
Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur, Rajasthan |
|
Built In |
18th Century by Maharaja Madho Singh I |
|
Architectural Style |
Rajput and Mughal |
|
Material Used |
Red Sandstone |
|
Floors |
Five (Four submerged underwater) |
|
Entry Fee |
Free (No entry inside the palace) |
|
Timings |
Open all day for viewing |
|
Best Time to Visit |
Sunrise or Sunset |
|
Nearby Attractions |
Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Kanak Vrindavan Gardens |
|
Photography |
Allowed |
