Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The rugged mountains and thick forests that surround this sanctuary make it a perfect holiday destination for lovers of nature too. Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is the home of many animals and birds that are rarely found in other parts of the country.

The beauty of this place remains untouched as it remains isolated from any kind of human habitation.  Bison, Wild Deer and Chital are found in large numbers here.  In the vicinity of the sanctuary are other places of tourist interest such as the Gagangiri Maharaj's Mutt and the backwaters of the Radhanagari Dam. It is also considered to be one of the best campsites in the whole of Maharashtra.

Located amidst thick forestation and the marvelous Sahyadri mountain range, this wildlife sanctuary offers some great scenic views along with a population of some stunning species.

When in Dajipur, one can also visit Gagangiri Maharaja's Math, which is located in a reclusive region and a must visit on a trip to this place. One can take treks in this region to enjoy the woods and the sanctuary is a haven for lovers of wildlife.

Location

Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a height of 1200 m above sea level atop the Ponda Ghats on the border of Kolhapur and Sindhudurg districts close to the backwaters of the Radhanagari dam. It is at a distance of about 60 km from Kolhapur.

Flora

The dense forests of Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary are full of rare trees and a number of medicinal plants and herbs. Some of the trees that thrive here are Karvi, Jambul, Awala, Kindel and Bhoma among many others. Vagati, Ranmiri, Toran, Dhayati and Karvanda are some of the many medicinal plants that are found in large numbers across the sanctuary. A variety of seasonal plants are found too.

Fauna

The confines of Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary house a number of animals and birds like Bison, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Tigers, Leopards, Giant Squirrels and Wild Dogs. In addition, the sanctuary is also home to a large number of amphibians and reptiles. It is also known as the Bison National Park owing to the fact that there are over 500 Bison in the park. Birdwatchers visiting the sanctuary are sure to be delighted as it is filled with beautiful and colorful birds like Bulbuls, Warblers, Quails, Flycatchers, Wagtails, Eagles, Jungle Fowl and Vultures.

Best Time to Visit

Summers in Dajipur are quite hot, while winters are pleasant. The wildlife sanctuary remains open from November to June and is an ideal time for tourists to visit. However, the months of April and May can become particularly hot which tend to keep away a lot of visitors.

How to Reach

Rail

The nearest railway station is located at Kolhapur, which is about 80 km from Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. The Kolhapur railhead is connected to most of the major cities in India.

Air

The closest airport is located at Kolhapur, which is about 80 km from Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Flights from Mumbai to Kolhapur operate on a regular basis. 

Road

Ponda is the closest bus station at a distance of around 20 km from Dajipur. A number of state transport buses ply between Ponda and its nearby cities.