Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh along the Indo–Nepal border, is one of India’s most productive tiger habitats. Notified as a Tiger Reserve in 2008, it is renowned for its extensive sal forests, tall grasslands, wetlands and rich biodiversity. The reserve forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape and plays a crucial role in maintaining wildlife connectivity with Nepal’s protected areas.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Uttar Pradesh
Districts	Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich
Tiger Reserve Notification	2008
Total Area	730.25 sq km
Core Area	602.79 sq km
Buffer Area	127.45 sq km
Landscape	Terai Arc Landscape
Forest Types	Sal Forests, Moist Deciduous Forests, Grasslands and Wetlands
Major Rivers	Sharda, Chuka, Mala and Khannot
Best Time to Visit	November to June

Location

The reserve lies in the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh bordering Nepal and forms an important ecological corridor with neighbouring protected forests in India and Nepal.

History

Pilibhit Forest Division has long been recognised for its wildlife richness. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2008 under Project Tiger and has since emerged as one of India’s leading tiger conservation landscapes, receiving international recognition for its management.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve extends over 730.25 sq km, including a core area of 602.79 sq km and a buffer area of 127.45 sq km. Dense sal forests, swampy grasslands, riverine forests, marshes and perennial rivers provide ideal habitat for tigers and a wide range of other wildlife.

Flora

The vegetation is dominated by sal, shisham, khair, jamun, haldu, bamboo, cane, reeds, tall grasses and numerous medicinal plants characteristic of the Terai ecosystem.

Fauna

Pilibhit supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Fishing Cat, Leopard Cat, Smooth-coated Otter, Wild Boar and more than 325 bird species. Important reptiles include Mugger Crocodile, Indian Rock Python, King Cobra and several freshwater turtles.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Sharda River, Chuka River and several perennial streams, marshes and wetlands provide abundant water and sustain rich aquatic biodiversity throughout the reserve.

Other Attractions

Chuka Eco-tourism Zone, birdwatching, forest safaris, wetlands, watchtowers and scenic Terai forests are among the reserve’s major attractions.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm and humid, the southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall and winters are cool with frequent fog, creating favourable conditions for wildlife.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Bareilly and Lucknow. Nearest railway stations: Pilibhit and Puranpur. The reserve is well connected by road from Bareilly, Lucknow and nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

November to June is considered the ideal period for wildlife tourism, while winter is especially rewarding for birdwatching.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Uttar Pradesh Tourism accommodation are available near authorised tourism zones, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is a vital component of the Terai Arc Landscape. Habitat restoration, scientific monitoring, anti-poaching patrols and transboundary conservation with Nepal contribute to its conservation success.

Visitor Tips

Book safari permits in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, avoid littering, maintain silence and follow Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• Pilibhit Tiger Reserve won the TX2 Award for doubling its tiger population.
• It forms part of the internationally important Terai Arc Landscape.
• The reserve supports one of the finest remaining sal forest ecosystems in northern India.

Last Updated

July 2026