National Chambal Sanctuary is like an abode of endangered reptiles and mammals on this earth. Surrounded by the beauty of the Chambal River, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes makes it a paradise for wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This massive sanctuary is home to many endangered reptile species, especially Gharials. Because of this reason, it is also called the National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary. Besides, its rustic ruins of history and medieval temples draw special attention to seek the glory of the place. Being home to many endangered species and bygone era, this sanctuary stands as one of the iconic attractions of many sanctuaries in India.
There is a lot to know about the beauty and special attractions of the sanctuary. With this travel guide, you can have a clear idea about this sanctuary before you go. Let’s have a look at what you all need to know about Chambal.
What you need to know about the sanctuary:
Chambal Sanctuary is a massive one spread over nearly 5400 sq km covered with ravines, hills, and sandy beaches. The sanctuary is surrounded by the Chambal River, which is India’s one of the cleanest rivers and it is home to many endangered species. The special attractions of the sanctuary are Gharials, Gangetic Dolphins, Red-crowned turtles, and Indian skimmers. These are the most endangered species getting protected in this sanctuary. Apart from these, many other reptiles, birds, and mammals are getting shelter in this sanctuary.
When it comes to administration, the sanctuary is the result of three state’s efforts namely Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Because the geographical location of the sanctuary lies in a tripoint of these states sharing borders. It covers Morena and Bhinddistricts in Madhya Pradesh, Etawah district in Uttar Pradesh, and Kota and Swai Madhopur districts in Rajasthan. Apart from reptiles, this sanctuary is quite popular for its numerous local and migratory bird species. Simply, it is like a paradise for bird lovers and wildlife lovers.
Wildlife beauty of Chambal:
As we know Chambal is home to many endangered reptiles and mammals. Among them, Gharials, red-crowned turtles, and Gangetic Dolphins are the important species of the land. In India, Chambal is one of the places that holds the record highest population of Gharials. Also, it is home to many other endangered species like the Mugger crocodile, Striped Hyena, Indian Wolf, Smooth-coated otter, Indian flapshell turtle, Monitor lizard, Indian roofed turtle, Indian tent turtle, etc. The special thing about the place is here you can see 8 species of total 22 species of turtles. In very rare places you can see such a rich population of turtles.
Apart from the reptile population, the important mammals that are getting shelter here are Hanuman langur, Rhesus macaque, Golden jackal, Bengal fox, Indian grey mongoose, Sambar, Nilgai, Indian crested porcupine, Indian flying fox, Indian gazelle, etc. If we write on, the list goes such a huge number of mammals getting shelter here.
What’s the special of Chambal’s birdlife:
Besides its wildlife, there is a special recognition for Chambal’s bird species. This sanctuary is listed in IBA means Important Bird Area (IN122)and is also a proposed Ramsar site. Another interesting thing about the sanctuary is it is known for its highest recording of Indian Skimmers nesting. Like these, many special things about the place made it a bird’s paradise for bird lovers and photographers.
In total 320 local and migratory birds stay in this sanctuary. The important bird species can we spot here are the Saruscrane, Indian Courser, Pallas’s fish eagle, Pallid harrier, Flamingo, Black-bellied tern, Ferruginous pochard, Bar-headed goose, Brown hawk owl, etc. An uncountable number of bird species with their authentic and distinct looks make everyone fall in love with the place.
Historical attractions of the sanctuary:
Apart from wildlife and birds, the sanctuary is also known for its rustic historic attractions namely Ater Fort and Bateshwar Temples. Ater is a 17th-century fort, which is a simple and good sightseeing spot to enjoy the surrounding greenery and attractions. You can have access to the fort through bus or jeep. After that, Bateshwar Temples are an important historic place to visit in Chambal. In this complex, there are 200 temples and most of them were destroyed. Here we can see most of the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Bateshwar Mahadev. These two historic places are also worth visiting in Chambal along with its wildlife attractions.
Chambal’s safaris:
In Chambal Sanctuary you can have access to different safaris to explore the beauty of wildlife and greenery. You can opt for a Boat safari, Camel safari, Jeep safari, or Nature Walks.
Boat Safari: It is the best option to experience the rich wildlife of Chambal. Because of this, you can spot Gharials, Gangetic Dolphins, birds, and other reptiles of the Chambal River. To explore the reptiles and birds of Chambal, this option is the best choice and it takes 2 to 3 hours to cover the safari.
Jeep Safari: With this type of ride you can capture the sightings of different animals in the sanctuary. For those who love wildlife, this safari is the best option.
Camel Safari: It is a different experience to explore the sanctuary attractions sitting on the hump of a camel. You can have a good chance to explore the different animal species of the sanctuary.
Nature walks: Nature walks are also allowed in this sanctuary. But in some guided routes only walks will be allowed. It will be interesting to experience this kind of to witness the nature and wildlife.
Precautionary tips to be followed:
- Wear comfortable clothing and carry sunscreens to get protection from sunlight and harsh climate.
- Always wear good shoe gear for nature walks so as not to get bitten by poisonous insects or snakes.
- Always follow the instructions of your guide during safaris. Especially, don’t forget to wear a life jacket during boat safaris.
- Carry waterproof bags and little pouches to protect your devices from water during safaris.
- Try to carry a camera and binoculars to have a good sight of the animals.
- Never contaminate the cleanest river Chambal and the sanctuary with all the leftover things in your bag.
Accommodation:
You can have different options for guesthouses, resorts, and hotels in nearby cities of the sanctuary. In Agra, Gwalior, Kota, and Ranthambore you can stay. In these cities, you can have plenty of stay options with all amenities and facilities.
Best Time to Visit:
The sanctuary opens from October to June and it will be closed during July, August, and September. Because at that time climate will be harsh with monsoons and sometimes floods will occur. Between November and March, the climate and the sanctuary look beautiful and pleasant to visit.
How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airports to reach the sanctuary are located in nearby cities like Agra, Jaipur, and Gwalior. From there you can hire a taxi or public transport to the sanctuary.
By Rail: The nearest railway stations are located in nearby cities like Agra, Kota, and Gwalior. From there you can hire a taxi or public transport to the sanctuary.
By Road: The road is well-connected with nearby cities like Jaipur, Gwalior, and Agra. You can use public transport services or can hire a cab.
This is all about the Chambal’s beautiful sanctuary to know before you experience it. From its boundaries to its special attractions, everything is made clear. Whenever you get a chance to explore this wonder, never leave that opportunity. Simply, in North India, Chambal is one of the important sanctuaries to visit once in a lifetime to explore its untouched beauty.
Recommended Reads:
- Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, Jaipur, Rajasthan – A Complete Travel Guide
- Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary: Your Ultimate Guide
- Best Time to See Wildlife in India
- Wildlife National Parks in Andaman and Nicobar
- Tamil Nadu Wildlife National Parks
- Wildlife National Parks in Northeast India
- Odisha Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks
- Wildlife National Park in Rajasthan
