National Chambal Sanctuary, Agra & Etawah

Overview

• Location: Tri-junction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh
• Established: 1979
• Area: 5,400 sq km
• Best Time to Visit: November to March

Wildlife Highlights

• Gharials:
  • Star attraction with the largest population
  • Best viewed sunbathing on riverbanks in winter months (November, February, March)
• Turtles:
  • Home to 8 of India's 26 turtle species, including the Red-crowned Roof Turtle
  • Easily spotted during the sunny winter days
• Gangetic Dolphins: Rare river dolphins
• Other Fauna:
  • Marsh Crocodiles
  • Indian Striped Hyenas
  • Smooth-coated Otters
  • Bengal Fox
  • Golden Jackal

Birdwatching Paradise

• Resident and Migratory Birds:
  • Indian Skimmer, River Tern, Black-bellied Tern
  • Kingfishers: Pied, Common, White-breasted
  • Waterfowl: Ruddy Shelduck, Lesser Whistling Duck
  • Waders: Small Pratincole, Brown Crake, Common Moorhen
  • Lapwings, Painted Stork, Sarus Crane, Grey Heron, Black-winged Stilt
• Raptors:
  • Laggar Falcon, Long-legged Buzzard, Bonnelli’s Eagle
  • Steppe Eagle, Dusky Eagle Owl, Brown Hawk Owl
• Special Note: Only place in India for nesting Indian Skimmers (October to May/June)

Activities

• River Safari: Explore the Chambal River by boat for the best wildlife sightings
• Bird Watching: Ideal spots for enthusiasts with guides available
• Nature Walks: Trails along the riverbanks for a closer look at the flora and fauna
• Camel Safari: Ride to Fort Ater, an ASI-protected site with historical significance
• Jeep Safari: Visit the Sarus Crane Conservation Reserve, 30 km from Chambal Safari Lodge
• Heritage Walk: Explore Holipura village, known for its grand havelis and historical significance

Nearby Attractions

• Fort Ater: Historic fort with panoramic views, reachable by camel safari
• Bateshwar Temples: Ancient temples on the banks of the Yamuna River, restored by ASI
• Sarus Crane Conservation Reserve: Wetland breeding ground for the largest congregation of Sarus Cranes in India
• Holipura Village: Historical village with grand havelis, linked to the Chaturvedi clan
• Bicycle Highway: 207-km route from the Taj Mahal to the National Chambal Sanctuary, passing through Bateshwar temples and Etawah lion safari

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport is in Agra (approx. 70 km)
• By Train: Closest railway station is at Etawah (approx. 45 km)
• By Road: Well-connected via highways from major cities like Agra, Gwalior, and Delhi
• Bicycle: Hire bicycles to travel the 207-km highway from the Taj Mahal to the sanctuary

Tips for Travelers

• Safety: Follow guidelines provided by the sanctuary authorities
• Photography: Carry a good zoom lens for capturing wildlife
• Clothing: Light, breathable clothes during summer and warm layers in winter
• Accommodation: Various eco-lodges and forest rest houses available nearby

Conservation Efforts

• Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Promoting sustainable tourism to protect wildlife
• Community Involvement: Local communities engaged in conservation activities
• Research Programs: Ongoing studies on species and habitat preservation

Conclusion

The National Chambal Sanctuary offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Experience the untouched beauty and vibrant biodiversity of this lesser-known gem.