About Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected moist deciduous forest area in Dang District of southern Gujarat, centered near the village of Mahal. Covering about 160.84 sq km along the Purna River, it was declared a sanctuary in 1990 and forms part of the dense Dangs forest belt bordering Maharashtra. It is notable for its rich biodiversity, teak and bamboo forests, and as a habitat for leopards, barking deer, and diverse birdlife.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect dense moist deciduous forest with teak, bamboo and khair trees along the Purna River. The sanctuary offers forest trails, watch points and the Mahal eco-campsite area for nature walks and wildlife viewing. Sightings may include leopard, rhesus macaque, barking deer, four-horned antelope, and numerous bird species. The setting is remote and natural with basic eco-tourism infrastructure, forest rest houses and guided nature trails.
Key highlights
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Part of the dense Dangs forest with moist deciduous teak and bamboo cover
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Located along the Purna River with rich biodiversity
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Habitat for leopard, barking deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar and rhesus macaque
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Noted birdwatching area with over 100 bird species
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Mahal Campsite and eco-tourism centre inside the sanctuary
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Dense forest trails and nature interpretation paths
History of Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in July 1990 under the Gujarat Forest Department, covering an area of 160.84 sq km. It forms part of the historic Dangs forest, one of the largest intact moist deciduous forest tracts in Gujarat, traditionally managed as reserved forests during the British period.
Culture & Context
Located in the tribal Dang region inhabited by Dangi tribal communities. The forest holds traditional significance for local communities and is promoted as an eco-tourism site showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of the Dangs.
Route
| By air |
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