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Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh is one of the finest examples of the Terai ecosystem of the Himalayan foothills. Constituted under Project Tiger in 1987, the reserve comprises Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. Vast sal forests, tall grasslands, wetlands and riverine habitats support Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, One-horned Rhinoceroses, Swamp Deer and Gangetic Dolphins.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Uttar Pradesh |
| Districts | Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 1987 |
| Total Area | 2,201.77 sq km |
| Core Area | 1,094.93 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 1,106.84 sq km |
| Landscape | Terai Arc Landscape |
| Forest Types | Sal Forest, Riverine Forest, Wet Grassland and Swamp |
| Major Rivers | Sharda, Suheli, Mohana, Geruwa |
| Best Time to Visit | November to June |
Location
The reserve lies along the Indo-Nepal border in the Terai region and forms a crucial part of the internationally significant Terai Arc Landscape.
History
Dudhwa National Park was created in 1977 following pioneering conservation efforts led by Billy Arjan Singh. It became a Tiger Reserve in 1987 and was later expanded by including Kishanpur and Katerniaghat, creating one of India’s largest protected landscapes.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve covers 2,201.77 sq km with a core area of 1,094.93 sq km and a buffer of 1,106.84 sq km. Extensive sal forests, floodplain grasslands, marshes, oxbow lakes and river systems create ideal habitats for large mammals, reptiles and migratory birds.
Flora
Dominant vegetation includes sal, khair, shisham, asna, jamun, semal, bamboo, reeds and extensive elephant grass supporting large herbivores.
Fauna
The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, One-horned Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer (Barasingha), Hog Deer, Sambar, Chital, Fishing Cat, Leopard Cat, Hispid Hare and Wild Boar. Gharial, Mugger Crocodile, Gangetic Dolphin and more than 450 bird species make Dudhwa exceptionally rich in biodiversity.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Sharda, Suheli, Mohana and Geruwa rivers, together with marshes and wetlands, sustain wildlife throughout the year.
Other Attractions
Rhino rehabilitation area, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, birdwatching, wetlands and nature interpretation centres.
Weather & Climate
Summers are hot, monsoons bring heavy rainfall and winters are cool with frequent fog, providing pleasant conditions for wildlife tourism.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Lucknow. Nearest railway stations: Dudhwa, Palia Kalan and Mailani. Good road connectivity is available from Lucknow, Lakhimpur Kheri and Bareilly.
Best Time to Visit
November to June, particularly February to April for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Accommodation
Forest Department forest rest houses and Uttar Pradesh Tourism accommodation are available in designated tourism areas, subject to advance booking.
Conservation Highlights
Dudhwa safeguards the Terai ecosystem and supports flagship conservation programmes for tigers, rhinoceroses, elephants, gharials and Gangetic dolphins.
Visitor Tips
Book safaris in advance, carry binoculars, wear earth-coloured clothing, maintain silence and follow Forest Department regulations.
Did You Know?
• Dudhwa is India’s only tiger reserve where tigers, rhinoceroses and swamp deer coexist naturally.
• It is a key component of the Terai Arc Landscape.
• Billy Arjan Singh played a pivotal role in protecting these forests.
Last Updated
July 2026