Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is a world-famous elephant refuge situated on the Dalma Hills in the Chota Nagpur Plateau near Jamshedpur.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Jharkhand |
| Districts | East Singhbhum (near Jamshedpur / Tatanagar) |
| Year of Notification | 1975 (Project Elephant 1992) |
| Total Area | 195.00 sq km |
| Landscape | Dalma mountain ridges, dense dry peninsular sal forests, bamboo thickets, and plateau rills. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Subarnarekha River, Kharkai River, and Dimna Lake reservoir |
| Nearest Airport | Birsa Munda Airport Ranchi (IXR) – 100 km / Jamshedpur Sonari Airport – 15 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Tatanagar Junction (TATA) – 18 km / Chandil Junction – 25 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the East Singhbhum (near Jamshedpur / Tatanagar) region of Jharkhand. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Jharkhand.
History
Inaugurated and notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in December 1975 by Sanjay Gandhi, Dalma was brought under Project Elephant in 1992 to protect vital elephant corridors between Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 195.00 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Dalma mountain ridges, dense dry peninsular sal forests, bamboo thickets, and plateau rills.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Sal (Shorea robusta), Asan (Terminalia tomentosa), Gamhar, Dhaura, Mahua (Madhuca longifolia), Kendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and Bamboo brakes..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Asian Elephant (flagship wild elephant population!), Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Wild Boar, Indian Pangolin, Porcupine.
- Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Asian Elephant, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Python, King Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Monitor Lizard, Fan-throated Lizard.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Peafowl, Grey Hornbill, Indian Roller, Paradise Flycatcher, Falcon, Emerald Dove.
- Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Shikra, Black Kite, Spotted Owlet.
- Migratory Species: Indian Pitta, Asian Openbill, Egret, Pintail Duck.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Subarnarekha River, Kharkai River, and Dimna Lake reservoir.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Dimna Lake (10 km), Dalma Hill Top Shiva Temple (0 km inside park), Jamshedpur Jubilee Park & Tata Steel Zoo (15 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: Birsa Munda Airport Ranchi (IXR) – 100 km / Jamshedpur Sonari Airport – 15 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Tatanagar Junction (TATA) – 18 km / Chandil Junction – 25 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Jharkhand.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near East Singhbhum (near Jamshedpur / Tatanagar).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Jharkhand.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Jharkhand notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Asian Elephant (flagship wild elephant population!) and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 195.00 sq km along the Subarnarekha River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026