Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a small wildlife sanctuary situated about 73 km away from Pune. Located near Baramati, the area was declared as a sanctuary in 1997. The sanctuary comprises mainly of dry deciduous scrub forest and is home to a plethora of flora and fauna specific to grasslands. It is considered to be the smallest wildlife sanctuary in India.

Visitors can explore the sanctuary by driving vehicles or on foot. To enter you need to pay a small fee at the forest office near the main gate. Maps displaying the trail are available at this office. Inside the sanctuary, you will come across a massive variety of wild animals and birds. You can expect to encounter animals such as Indian Gazelles or Chinkaras, Striped Hyenas, Indian Gray Wolves, Indian Jackals, Indian Foxes, Indian Hares and more.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the extensive of bird species found at Mayureshwar. Inside this refuge you can spot a huge number of migratory as well as native birds including European Rollers, Montagu’s Harriers, Indian Rollers, Black-winged Kites, Grey Hornbills, Grey Patridge, Eurasian Collared Doves, Larks, Kingfishers and more.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is between September and February, when the weather is relatively pleasant. Visit early in the morning and just before sunset to make the most of your trip.