KELADEVI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, KRAULI

 

Kela Devi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Karauli district of Rajasthan, India. It is a significant wildlife sanctuary known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and rich fauna. It is named after the Kela Devi, a local goddess, and is situated at the foothills of the Aravalli Range. The sanctuary is known for its serene surroundings, dense forests, and is a great destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Key Features and Attractions of Kela Devi Wildlife Sanctuary:

1. Location:

   • The sanctuary is located in the Karauli district of Rajasthan, approximately 20 km from the town of Karauli. It is also about 130 km from Jaipur, making it easily accessible by road.
   • The sanctuary lies in the Aravalli Hill Range and is spread across an area of around 674 square kilometers.

2. Flora and Fauna:

   • Flora: The sanctuary is home to dense forests, primarily consisting of teak, sal, bamboo, and khair trees. It also has a variety of shrubs and herbs.
   • Fauna: The sanctuary is rich in wildlife and offers shelter to many species of animals and birds. Some of the key species include:
     • Tigers
     • Leopards
     • Cheetahs
     • Sambar deer
     • Chital (Spotted deer)
     • Nilgai (Blue bull)
     • Wild boars
     • Langur monkeys
     • Wildcats
   • The sanctuary is also home to various species of reptiles, including crocodiles and snakes, as well as many species of birds, such as peafowls, eagles, and pigeons.

3. Kela Devi Temple:

   • The sanctuary is named after the Kela Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kela Devi, which is located within the sanctuary. The temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, especially during the Navratri festival.
   • The temple is situated by the Karauli River, adding to its picturesque setting.

4. Best Time to Visit:

   • The best time to visit the Kela Devi Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities. The summer months (April to June) can be extremely hot, making wildlife sightings difficult due to the dense heat.

5. Things to Do:

   • Wildlife Safari: The sanctuary offers jeep safaris that allow visitors to explore the dense forests and spot various animals in their natural habitat.
   • Bird Watching: With its diverse bird species, the sanctuary is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.
   • Photography: The combination of wildlife, natural beauty, and the scenic backdrop of the Aravalli hills makes the sanctuary an excellent spot for photography.
   • Pilgrimage: The Kela Devi Temple within the sanctuary is an important spiritual destination for devotees, especially during festivals.

6. How to Reach:

   • By Road: The sanctuary is well connected by road to the nearby cities of Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi. It is about 130 km from Jaipur and approximately 60 km from Bharatpur.
   • By Train: The nearest railway station is Karauli Railway Station, which is well connected to major cities in Rajasthan.
   • By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, located around 130 km away from the sanctuary.

7. Nearby Attractions:

   • Karauli Town: Famous for its Karauli Palace and City Palace, a fine example of Rajput architecture, it is a great place to explore the region’s history and heritage.
   • Brij Raj Bhawan Palace: Another important heritage site located near the sanctuary.
   • Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary: A famous bird sanctuary located about 50 km from Kela Devi, known for migratory birds and its beautiful wetland ecosystem.