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Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary (Parmadan Sanctuary) is a charming riverside forest reserve named after legendary Bengali novelist Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | West Bengal |
| Districts | North 24 Parganas (Parmadan near Bongaon) |
| Year of Notification | 1980 |
| Total Area | 0.68 sq km (68 hectares / Parmadan Forest) |
| Landscape | Meandering riverbank forest, dense bamboo groves, moist Gangetic alluvial plains. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Ichamati River (meandering directly through the heart of the sanctuary) |
| Nearest Airport | Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport Kolkata (CCU) – 85 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Bongaon Junction (BNJ) – 20 km / Ranaghat Junction – 25 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the North 24 Parganas (Parmadan near Bongaon) region of West Bengal. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
History
Established in 1980 under the Wildlife Protection Act along the Ichamati River and renamed in honor of Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, author of ‘Aranyak’ and ‘Pather Panchali’.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 0.68 sq km (68 hectares / Parmadan Forest), the sanctuary’s terrain features Meandering riverbank forest, dense bamboo groves, moist Gangetic alluvial plains.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Sal, Teak, Arjun, Bamboo, Mahogany, Sissoo, Jamun, Mango, and riverine reeds..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Bonnet Macaque, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Porcupine, Pangolin.
- Predators & Carnivores: Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Civet Cat.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Rock Python, Monitor Lizard, Cobra, Banded Krait, Flapshell Turtle.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Asian Openbill, Pied Kingfisher, Black-capped Kingfisher, Indian Peafowl, Drongo, Woodpecker.
- Raptors & Owls: Brahminy Kite, Black Kite, Shikra, Eagle-Owl.
- Migratory Species: Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Teal, Indian Pitta, Bronze-winged Jacana.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Ichamati River (meandering directly through the heart of the sanctuary).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Mangalganj Kuthibari Ruins (10 km), Petrapole Indo-Bangladesh Border (20 km), Bongaon Town (20 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: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport Kolkata (CCU) – 85 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Bongaon Junction (BNJ) – 20 km / Ranaghat Junction – 25 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in West Bengal.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near North 24 Parganas (Parmadan near Bongaon).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in West Bengal.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Spotted Deer (Chital) and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 0.68 sq km (68 hectares / Parmadan Forest) along the Ichamati River (meandering directly through the heart of the sanctuary) watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026