If you love wildlife not only on travel channels but in their natural habitats, we have a plan for you. We have all heard about blackbucks, but how many of us have actually seen them. This weekend, take your kids along to Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary, the only place in Maharashtra to spot this uncommon species of animal. Get ready to explore the wildlife into the Western Ghats of Maharashtra!
In India, only four wildlife sanctuaries were made to preserve these blackbucks and the most beautiful amongst them with the highest chances of spotting is in Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary. Located in Karjat, Ahmednagar, this dry deciduous scrub forest is spread approximately 2.17 square kilometres. The wildlife park is small in size but provides interesting exploration trails.
This place is a hit with the locals, tourists and nature lovers for its wide variety of flora and fauna. Blackbuck, also known as the Indian antelope is the sole extant member of the genus antilope and is famous for its unique jump and for being the fastest running animal in India. Blackbucks in Maharashtra are referred to as kalvit and the male blackbuck easily stands out for its long spiral horns. The number of this species has increased to approximately 400. The area of the sanctuary is a lush rich grassland.
Along with the blackbucks, you can also spot other species like chinkara, wolf and the Indian fox along with a wide range of bird species. So, take out your DSLR and satiate all your wildlife photography desires.
Things to Know
• Be patient and keep quiet so as to not alarm the blackbucks, while on the walking trail.
• It is advisable to bring your own food and water. Carry a water bottle along. Stay hydrated.
• Consumption of alcohol or any other intoxicants is strictly prohibited during the tour.
• The tourists have the option to either take a jeep safari or trek the long stretches of the route with a guide.
• It is advisable to stick to the decided routes so that you do not get lost.
• An exciting way to see the blackbucks is to join a day-long photography tour to the sanctuary. Check the options online.
• You will have to pay an entry fee to visit the sanctuary. Safari timings are from 7.00 am to 3.00 pm. Check the schedule before visiting.
• Full sleeves t-shirts are preferable as you can get exposed to an insect bite.
Accommodation
The sanctuary doesn’t have any places to stay except the forest guest house, which is not easily available. Make sure you have prior arrangements in case you want to stay at the guest house. However, there are budget hotels and homestays in the nearby town Karjat.
Places nearby
Bhigwan bird sanctuary is located along the backwaters of Ujjani dam near the village of Diksal and KumbharGaon. This is one of the best locations to watch water birds, both local and migratory. During winter months, you can see the flamingos as well at the lake.
The Siddhivinayak Temple, located in Siddhatek village of karjat taluka, is one of the ashtavinayak temples or eight holy temples dedicated to lord Ganesha in Maharashtra. This temple draws many devotees throughout the year.
Best time to visit
This sanctuary is open round the year and is not closed during any particular season. However, the best season to visit is during the summer season, as the chances of spotting blackbucks are high.
How to get there
By air: The nearest airport to Ahmednagar is Pune city airport, which is approximately three to four hours drive to the sanctuary. Private taxis are easily available.
By train: The nearest railway station is Daund (70 km) and Ahmednagar (75 km). Take a taxi from the station to reach the sanctuary.
By road: If you want to go by road then there are many private and state buses from Mumbai and Pune to take you to Ahmednagar and from there to Rehekuri. If you love driving, you can also do a road trip from Mumbai and Pune.
The Rehekuri Wildlife Sanctuary is a small place but quite valuable from the biodiversity point of view.
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