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Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is a world-unique community-managed sanctuary in Punjab where wild Blackbucks roam freely through Bishnoi agricultural villages.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Punjab |
| Districts | Fazilka (Abohar Sub-division) |
| Year of Notification | 1975 (Community Wildlife Sanctuary) |
| Total Area | 186.50 sq km (spans across 13 Bishnoi community villages) |
| Landscape | Flat agricultural plains, irrigated farm fields, acacia groves, and canal banks. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Sutlej River canal feeders and Sirhind canal system |
| Nearest Airport | Bathinda Airport (BUP) – 65 km / Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee Airport Amritsar (ATQ) – 210 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Abohar Junction Railway Station (ABS) – 15 km / Fazilka Junction – 40 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Fazilka (Abohar Sub-division) region of Punjab. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Punjab.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1975 under the Wildlife Protection Act, this unique private-land sanctuary relies on the sacred conservation traditions of the local Bishnoi community to protect wild Blackbucks.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 186.50 sq km (spans across 13 Bishnoi community villages), the sanctuary’s terrain features Flat agricultural plains, irrigated farm fields, acacia groves, and canal banks.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Khejri (Prosopis cineraria), Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana), Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo), Kikar (Acacia nilotica), Eucalyptus, and mustard crops..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Blackbuck (over 3,500 wild blackbucks – State Animal of Punjab!), Chinkara (Indian Gazelle), Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Indian Hare.
- Predators & Carnivores: Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Desert Fox.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Blackbuck (Punjab State Animal), Chinkara (Indian Gazelle), Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Monitor Lizard, Saw-scaled Viper, Cobra, Rat Snake, Indian Flapshell Turtle.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Black Francolin (State Bird of Punjab), Grey Francolin, Indian Peafowl, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Green Bee-eater, Eurasian Collared Dove.
- Raptors & Owls: Black Kite, Shikra, Spotted Owlet, Marsh Harrier.
- Migratory Species: Common Crane, Demoiselle Crane, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Grey Heron.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Sutlej River canal feeders and Sirhind canal system.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Bishnoi Memorial Temple (0 km inside sanctuary), Harike Wetland (110 km), Fazilka TV Tower (40 km).
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Bathinda Airport (BUP) – 65 km / Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee Airport Amritsar (ATQ) – 210 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Abohar Junction Railway Station (ABS) – 15 km / Fazilka Junction – 40 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Punjab.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Fazilka (Abohar Sub-division).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Punjab.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Punjab notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Blackbuck (over 3 and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 186.50 sq km (spans across 13 Bishnoi community villages) along the Sutlej River canal feeders and Sirhind canal system watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026