Nestled in the Shivalik foothills of Yamunanagar district, the Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Haryana’s most scenic and biologically rich forest reserves. Spanning 11,570 hectares, this sanctuary forms part of the Shivalik Elephant Reserve and shares its boundaries with Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand and Simbalbara National Park in Himachal Pradesh.
Named after the historic Kalesar Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and nature photographers seeking an offbeat wilderness escape close to the plains of North India.
Overview
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Location: Yamunanagar District, Haryana
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Area: 11,570 hectares
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Established: 1983
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Best Known For: Elephants, Leopards, and Dense Sal Forests
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Nearest City: Yamunanagar (30 km)
Flora and Fauna
Flora
Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary features dense forests dominated by Sal (Shorea robusta) trees, along with Khair, Shisham, Sain, and Bamboo species. The hilly terrain and seasonal streams create a lush green environment that supports a variety of plant and tree species, offering shelter and food for wildlife.
Fauna
The sanctuary is home to an impressive range of mammals, reptiles, and birds. Notable wildlife includes:
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Indian Leopard
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Elephant (from Rajaji corridor)
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Sambar Deer
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Spotted Deer (Chital)
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Barking Deer
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Wild Boar
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Langur & Rhesus Macaque
Birdlife is abundant, with species like Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Crested Serpent Eagle, and migratory birds during winter. The sanctuary is also known for its Python and Cobra populations, adding to its biodiversity value.
Eco-Tourism and Conservation
Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in the Shivalik Elephant Corridor, connecting forests across Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. The Haryana Forest Department has developed eco-tourism facilities like:
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Kalesar Forest Rest House, offering jungle views and stay options.
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Safari Routes through designated forest tracks for wildlife spotting.
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Interpretation Centres for awareness and education.
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Community participation in forest protection and anti-poaching patrols.
These initiatives aim to balance tourism with sustainable conservation, ensuring minimal disturbance to the fragile Shivalik ecosystem.
Activities for Visitors
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Jungle Safari: Explore forest trails and spot deer, langurs, and if lucky, leopards or elephants.
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Birdwatching: Ideal for winter birding along the Yamuna river belt.
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Nature Walks: Guided trails through lush Sal forests.
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Photography: Capture misty mornings, wildlife, and temple architecture.
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Temple Visit: Seek blessings at the ancient Kalesar Mahadev Temple within the sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and March, when the climate is cool, the vegetation is lush, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
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Winter (Oct–Mar): Ideal for safaris and birdwatching.
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Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot but good for reptile sightings.
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Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Restricted access due to heavy rainfall.
How to Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport (90 km).
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By Train: Jagadhri Railway Station (40 km) and Yamunanagar Station (35 km) are the closest railheads.
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By Road: The sanctuary is well-connected by road from Yamunanagar, Chandigarh, and Dehradun via NH-73A.
Entry Fees & Timings
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Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
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Safari Charges: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per vehicle (approx.)
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Timings: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed during monsoon season)
Travel Tips
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Book safaris through the Haryana Forest Department in advance.
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Carry binoculars and a good camera lens for wildlife photography.
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Wear comfortable cotton clothes in summer and warm layers in winter.
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Avoid loud noises and littering inside the forest.
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Stay at the Kalesar Forest Rest House for an authentic jungle experience.
Nearby Attractions Around Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Kalesar National Park (Adjacent)
Established in 2003, this park forms the core area of the sanctuary and is home to elephants and leopards.
2. Kalesar Mahadev Temple (Within Sanctuary)
An ancient Shiva temple surrounded by dense forests, offering spiritual serenity amidst nature.
3. Simbalbara National Park (30 km)
Located in Himachal Pradesh, this beautiful park shares the same ecosystem and offers stunning forest treks.
4. Hathni Kund Barrage (25 km)
A scenic water reservoir built on the Yamuna River, perfect for birdwatching and picnics.
5. Yamunanagar (30 km)
A bustling industrial town with temples, parks, and forest edges ideal for short getaways.
6. Paonta Sahib (45 km)
A historic Sikh pilgrimage town in Himachal Pradesh with Gurudwara Paonta Sahib on the Yamuna’s banks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Where is Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It is located in the Yamunanagar district of Haryana, near the border of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Q2. What animals can be seen in Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Leopards, elephants, deer, langurs, and several bird species are commonly spotted here.
Q3. Is safari available in Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, the Forest Department organizes guided jeep safaris through designated forest routes.
Q4. When is the best time to visit Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Between October and March, when wildlife activity and visibility are at their peak.
Q5. Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, Kalesar Forest Rest House and hotels in Yamunanagar and Paonta Sahib offer comfortable stays.
Conclusion
Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is Haryana’s hidden wilderness, offering a rare combination of Shivalik landscapes, dense Sal forests, and thriving wildlife. Whether it’s the echoing calls of peafowls, the tranquil presence of elephants, or the charm of the Kalesar Mahadev Temple, this sanctuary captures the spirit of India’s northern wilderness.
For those seeking peace, adventure, and a brush with nature — Kalesar is a destination that truly rejuvenates both soul and senses.
