Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, located in the Western Ghats. Established in 1958 as Maharashtra's first wildlife sanctuary, it spans 351.16 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuary is renowned for its significant population of Indian bison (gaur) and rich biodiversity, including leopards, sloth bears, and over 260 bird species. It features tropical evergreen forests, rivers, and reservoirs within the Sahyadri hill range.

Visitors can expect dense tropical evergreen forests, rolling hills, and water bodies like the Radhanagari Dam reservoir. Wildlife safaris and nature walks offer opportunities to spot Indian bison, sambar deer, barking deer, and various bird species including the Malabar grey hornbill. Access is permitted from sunrise to sunset via forest roads, with entry passes issued until mid-afternoon. Visitors may explore designated areas like Shivrai Sada meadow and observe wildlife gathering at water sources during early morning or evening hours.