A Guide To Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandigarh

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
Hannah
Hannah 
Published
| 3 min read

Surrounded by breathtaking scenery of towering mountains and placid lakes, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is an enchanting destination of picturesque panoramas. This lush natural landscape on the northeastern shore of Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh is home to a wondrous collection of flora and fauna alike, and is a haven for a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Sukhna Lake catchment area, and is an idyllic spot for outdoor rest and recreation. From scenic strolls through the forest to paddling from the lakeshore, there is a lot to see in this sprawling 6,425 acres (2600 hectares) area. Home to over 150 varieties of birds, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is also a renowned spot for birdwatching, and many migratory birds pass through here from December to February. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect destination for a peaceful afternoon, and can be combined with a family-friendly visit to Sukhna Lake. Read the guide below for more helpful tips and travel information about Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandigarh.

Highlights

Deers Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandigarh 03
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvinder Chandigarh used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Sukhna Lake catchment area and Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary have been a prime spot for family-friendly activities since the area opened in 1988.

Birdwatching

From the dense forests to the tranquil lakes, Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species. Over 150 species of birds have been spotted here, including peacocks, kingfishers, jungle fowl, and many types of sparrows. The calm waters of Sukhna Lake also attract migratory species like Siberian ducks, storks, and cranes during the winter months.

Local wildlife

The unique array of environments in this area means that the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary can support a brilliant array of local wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, and insects. As you stroll through the area, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of animals like pangolins, jungle cats, Rhesus monkeys, and spotted deer. The park is also renowned for the large herds of Sambar deer that live here. A variety of reptiles, including snakes and turtles, also live in the sanctuary.

Walking trail

One of the best ways to explore the sanctuary is by strolling along the scenic Nature trail. This path cross through the beautiful forest area and by the lakes, and highlights the beauty of the natural flora, which includes lush trees, shrubs, grasses, climbing vines, and herbs. This wide, easy trail is perfect for groups and families.

Water sports and boating at Sukhna Lake

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary sits on the northeastern side of Sukhna Lake, which is a large recreation area that stretches over nearly 2 miles (3 km). In addition to walking and jogging, Sukhna Lake is a fantastic spot for exciting water sports. The peaceful lake offers paddle boat, kayak, and sail boat rentals from the shore, and you can even try water skiing, rowing, or sculling across the water’s smooth surface. On land, there is also Sukhna Lake Club, which provides a gym, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and indoor games to its members.

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Travel tips

Big cormorant , Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh,India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvinder Chandigarh used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Entry permit required

Before entering Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors must first obtain a permit from the Chandigarh Forest Department. Not more than 200 visitors are permitted in the park each day, and the permits are issued on a first come-first serve basis.

When to visit

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 6am to 6pm daily, with potential closures during the monsoon season. Many visitors suggest allowing between two to three hours to explore the sanctuary. The park is popular throughout the day, and especially on weekends, but peaceful mornings may be the best time for birdwatching. Alternately, the park is also great to visit in the early evening, and may provide more opportunities to see wildlife. Nearby Sukhna Lake is also beautiful to visit throughout the day, with many visitors enjoying water sports and family outings in the afternoon.

Seasonal birdwatching highlights

For birdwatchers, a particular highlight at Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is the arrival of several migratory bird species. Many types of birds make their way from Siberia, Central Asia, China, Afghanistan, and the upper Himalayas to stay at Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary from November through March or April. Many species have been seen at the park during this time frame, including cormorants, egrets, herons, and more.

Facilities near Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

There are several convenient facilities located within the Sukhna Lake catchment, including several food stalls and a souvenir shop located on the shore of Sukhna Lake.

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How to get there

Entrance of Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary,Chandigarh, India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvinder Chandigarh used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Entry gates

You can enter through the Kansal gate located near the Khuda Alisher village or Kaimbwala village in Chandigarh, or the Nepli gate located near the Suketri village in Haryana.

By car

There are several public parking lots available near Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and Sukhna Lake, including Sukhna Silence Garden Parking. The Sukhna Lake Midway parking lot is free and open 24 hours. A parking fee may be applied for buses.

By bus

Sukhna Lake is accessible by public bus. From the town of Chandigarh, visitors can take bus 206 towards the lake. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is located just over 3 miles (5.5 km) from the Chandigarh bus terminus.

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Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary information

Landscape in Nature Trail , lake reserve forest , Sukhna lake Chandigarh 07
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvinder Chandigarh used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

Address: North-East Of Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh, 160001, India

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

Price: Free

Website: Department of tourism

News & updates for Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary: New shallow water body in Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary records arrival of 32 species of migratory birds

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Hannah is a freelance writer, list making aficionado, and world traveler currently based in Germany. She is an avid explorer, and believes in creating new experiences to put on her bucket list to...Read more

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