Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary located around 18 kms form Dholpur, Rajasthan is built in an area of about 59.86sq.km and was established in late 1955 by the Government of Rajsathan.
Van Bihar Sanctuary situated on the Vindhyan plateau supports a larger extent and breed of Dhok and Khair trees. Inhabited by creatures like Sambhar, Blue Bull, Chital, Sloth Bear, Leopard and Hyena, this wildlife sanctuary has many other rare animals too within its vicinity. It is believed that Tigers were too found in this sanctuary until late 1960s.
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A forest resort too is situated within the sanctuary which is assumed to be built by the rulers of Dholpur and is now maintained by the Dy. Conservator of Forests, Dholpur. Van Vihar wildlife sanctuary is virtually divided into two parts. The first part lies on the end of Dholpur while the other is on the Ramsagar side which also has Ramsagar Lake within its boundary. The Ramsagar Lake has numerous aquatic animals including fresh water crocodile and a number of rare fishes and snakes. Different varieties of water birds like darter, ibis, white breasted water hen, jacanas, stilt, cormorants, etc can be found in this lake too. This lake also serves as home for various migratory ducks and geese in the winter season who visit the lake in huge numbers for breeding and other activities. Considering the size of the Ramsagar Lake and the Van Vihar wildlife sanctuary a four wheel vehicle is required to visit across the reserve.
Van Vihar Wildlife sanctuary can be reached by a short drive from Dholpur and an hour drive from Ramsagar. Dholpur is properly connected with rail-links from Delhi and other cities of Rajasthan. One can also reach Bharatpur which is around 113 KM from Dholpur and take a taxi from there to the Van Vihar Wildlife reserve. It is suggested to visit the sanctuary from Dholpur side as it is the main entrance of the sanctuary and transportation facilities are fairly available from this place. |