Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Haryana, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateHaryana
DistrictsForest Division of Haryana
Year of Notification1978 (Wildlife Protection Act)
Total Area285.00 sq km
LandscapeIndo-Gangetic alluvial plains, northern Shivalik foothills, southern Aravalli scrub ridges, and lake wetlands.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesKhaparwas Lake and Sahibi River basin
Nearest AirportChandigarh International Airport (IXC) / Indira Gandhi Airport Delhi (DEL) – 40 to 85 km
Nearest Railway StationAmbala Cantt Junction (UMB) / Panipat Junction (PNP) / Gurgaon (GGN) – 15 to 45 km
Best Time to VisitOctober to April

Location

The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Haryana region of Haryana. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Haryana.

History

Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Haryana.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an exact area of 285.00 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Indo-Gangetic alluvial plains, northern Shivalik foothills, southern Aravalli scrub ridges, and lake wetlands.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Teak (Tectona grandis), Anogeissus latifolia, Terminalia tomentosa, Boswellia serrata, Acacia catechu, Bamboo brakes..

Fauna

The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:

  • Primary Mammals: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Spotted Deer (Chital), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Porcupine.
  • Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena.
  • Herbivores & Ungulates: Sambar Deer, Chital, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Wild Boar.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Rock Python, Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise.

Other Wild Animals & Avifauna

  • Resident Woodland Birds: Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Grey Hornbill, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Blue-throated Barbet.
  • Raptors & Owls: Crested Hawk-Eagle, Black Kite, Spotted Owlet, Eurasian Eagle-Owl.
  • Migratory Species: Pintail Duck, Cotton Teal, Common Kingfisher, Grey Heron, Little Egret.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Khaparwas Lake and Sahibi River basin.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Sultanpur Bird Lake, Kalesar National Park, Pinjore Gardens.

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: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) / Indira Gandhi Airport Delhi (DEL) – 40 to 85 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Ambala Cantt Junction (UMB) / Panipat Junction (PNP) / Gurgaon (GGN) – 15 to 45 km
  • Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Haryana.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal season for visiting Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.

Accommodation

Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Haryana.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.

Conservation Highlights

Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Haryana.

Visitor Tips

Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.

Did You Know?

  • Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Haryana notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
  • Preserves key wildlife species including Indian Leopard and native avifauna.
  • Covers an exact area of 285.00 sq km along the Khaparwas Lake and Sahibi River basin watershed.

Last Updated: August 2026