About Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area located at Sukna near Siliguri in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers at the foothills of the Himalayas. Covering about 158 sq km, it is known for its dense sal forests, diverse flora and fauna including elephants, leopards and numerous bird species. Established in the 1950s, it serves as an important wildlife corridor and popular nature destination near Siliguri and Darjeeling.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect dense sal and riverine forests at the Himalayan foothills with watchtowers, forest trails and safari tracks. The sanctuary offers views of the Mahananda and Teesta river valleys, opportunities to spot elephants, Indian bison, leopards, deer and over 300 bird species, and guided jeep safaris and nature walks through designated zones starting from the Sukna gate.
Key highlights
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Located between Teesta and Mahananda rivers at the Himalayan foothills near Sukna
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Covers approximately 158 sq km of dense sal and mixed forests
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Important elephant corridor connecting forests of West Bengal and Sikkim
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Home to elephants, leopards, Himalayan black bear, barking deer and Indian bison
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Over 300 bird species including hornbills and migratory birds
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Jeep safari, trekking trails and watchtowers for wildlife viewing
History of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
Established in 1955 as a game sanctuary and declared as Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary in 1959. It was created to protect the Himalayan foothill forests and wildlife corridor between the Teesta and Mahananda rivers and covers about 158 sq km in Darjeeling district.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, about 20-25 km from the sanctuary |
|---|---|
| By train |