Tuesday, 06 October 2009 05:08

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary- Porbandar

About:

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the western part of Gujarat, is a lesser-known yet rich and diverse sanctuary, offering a pristine habitat for various wildlife species. It is characterized by dense forests, hilly terrain, rivers, and streams, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The sanctuary is home to several species of mammals, reptiles, and birds, including some rare and endangered species.  



The Sanctuary hardly has 192.31 sq. km area, but has one of the most diverse floral compositions and therefore a potential source of remedies of many ailments, and therefore deserves to be safeguarded. The terrain of Barda is almost hilly and undulating with an altitude ranging from 79.2 m to 617.8 m. above sea level. At places, there are gentle slopes with exposed rocks. The two main ephemeral rivers are Bileshvary and Joghri. Khambala and Fodara are important dams in the Sanctuary.

Location info:

LocationBarda Wildlife Sanctuary ,Porbandar,Gujarat,India
District: Porbandar
Nearest City: Porbandar
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:

Summer (March to June): Hot, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 42°C. Monsoon (July to September): Receives moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 25°C to 35°C. The sanctuary becomes lush green during this time. Winter (October to February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 28°C. The best time to visit is from October to February.

History:

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a protected area in 1979 to conserve the region's unique flora and fauna. It was previously a private hunting reserve of the princely states of Jamnagar and Porbandar. The sanctuary is named after the Barda Hills, which provide shelter to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species

Interesting things to do:

Wildlife Safari:
Take a guided safari to explore the sanctuary and spot animals such as leopards, hyenas, chinkaras, wild boars, and various reptiles.

Birdwatching:
The sanctuary is home to over 200 bird species, making it an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts. You might spot species like crested hawk eagles, green pigeons, and flamingos.

Nature Walks and Trekking
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the sanctuary by going on nature walks or trekking through the hills and dense forests.

Interesting things to Visit:

Barda Hills:
The Barda Hills are the main feature of the sanctuary, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Khambala and Fodara Dams:These two dams are located within the sanctuary and are popular spots for birdwatching and relaxation. 

Medicinal Plants Garden:The sanctuary is rich in medicinal plants, and you can explore various species used in traditional medicine. 

Mobile range info:

Mobile connectivity is available but may be patchy in certain parts of the sanctuary, especially in dense forest areas.

How to reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Porbandar Airport (about 25 km away) and Jamnagar Airport (about 85 km away).
By Train:The nearest railway station is Porbandar Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India.
Road Transport:State transport corporation buses operate to most of the important centers of Gujarat. Private operators have regular luxury bus services to Rajkot, Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, and Junagadh etc. from Porbandar. A bus journey to Mumbai would take over 24 hours and is not recommended.

Nearest Visiting places:

Porbandar (15 km):
Known as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, you can visit Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir, and Porbandar Beach.

Jamnagar (85 km):
Explore attractions like Lakhota Palace and Museum, Bala Hanuman Temple, and Marine National Park.

Dwarka (100 km):
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, famous for the Dwarkadhish Temple and Bet Dwarka Island

Madhavpur:
This town is located on the coastal region of the Arabian Sea, the sandy beaches welcomes many. The town is familiar through Hindu religions text, it is said that in this place that Krichna had married Rukmini, therefore, the famous fest of Mer community called Chaitra Sud 12 is celebrated every year, the Haveli temple of Madhavraiji and Madhavpur beach are the main attractions. The Javeli temple of Madhavraiji is another attraction, the Bethak of Mahaprabuji as Shri Vallabhachrya who had given discourse on Shrimad Bhagwat for seven days is also situated here.

Kirti Mandir:
Kirti Mandir, or Temple of Fame, is the cenotaph of the Gaekwads, located in the city of Vadodara.It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III to perpetuate the glorious memory of his beloved ancestors. The sun, the moon and the earth in bronze with the undivided map of India adorn the shikhar of Kirti Mandir. Kirti Mandir was built in 1936 as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

The nearest petrol pumps are available in Porbandar, approximately 15 km from the sanctuary.  

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Harmony:Porbandar,Gujarat,India,ph:091-286-2244230

Forest Rest House: Basic accommodation is available at the forest guest house, which needs to be booked in advance through the Gujarat Forest Department. 

Hotel Moon Palace:M.G.Road,Porbandar,Gujarat,India,ph:0286 2241172

Things to carry:

Binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing and photography. Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for trekking or walking. Water bottles, snacks, and essential medication. Sunscreen, a hat/cap, and insect repellent to protect against the sun and insects.

Tips & Suggestions:

Obtain the necessary permits for entry and safari rides from the Gujarat Forest Department. Follow the sanctuary guidelines and avoid littering or disturbing wildlife. Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment and increase the chances of spotting wildlife.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Shreya Hospital & ICU:Uganda Road,Porbandar,Gujarat,India
Sri Rupadiba Lady Hospital:Porbandar,Gujarat,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:www.gujaratguideonline.com

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