Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary Maharashtra | Blackbuck Conservation Reserve

Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, is one of India’s most important grassland ecosystems dedicated to the conservation of the elegant blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra). Established in 1980, the sanctuary plays a critical role in protecting open dry grasslands, a habitat that is rapidly disappearing across the country.

Unlike forest-dominated sanctuaries, Rehekuri offers a unique wildlife experience centered around open plains, making it an essential destination for wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and conservationists.

 

Location & Landscape

• State: Maharashtra

• District: Ahmednagar

• Ecosystem: Dry grassland and scrub

• Area: Approx. 670 hectares

The sanctuary lies in the rain-shadow region of the Deccan Plateau, characterized by flat terrain, sparse vegetation, and seasonal water bodies.

Flora & Habitat

Rehekuri is dominated by grassland and thorny scrub vegetation, including:

• Native grass species

• Acacia

• Babul

• Neem

• Shrubs adapted to arid conditions

These grasslands are crucial for grazing species and ground-nesting birds.

Wildlife of Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary

Flagship Species

• Blackbuck – One of the largest protected populations in Maharashtra

Other Mammals

• Indian Wolf (occasionally reported)

• Indian Fox

• Striped Hyena

• Jackal

• Hare

Birdlife

The sanctuary supports many grassland and wetland birds, such as:

• Peafowl

• Indian Courser

• Larks

• Pipits

• Harriers (seasonal migrants)

Reptiles

• Monitor Lizard

• Indian Cobra

• Rat Snake

Tourism & Activities

Rehekuri is best suited for day visits and educational tours.

Things to Do

• 🦌 Blackbuck spotting

• 🦜 Grassland birdwatching

• 📸 Wildlife photography

• 🚶 Nature interpretation walks

Entry is regulated by the Maharashtra Forest Department, and activities are non-intrusive.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Ideal weather and wildlife visibility

• April to May: Hot but good for blackbuck sightings near water sources

• June to September: Limited access during monsoon

Nearby Attractions

• Ahmednagar Fort – Historic landmark

• Bhandardara – Hill and lake destination

• Meherabad – Spiritual site

• Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary – Another blackbuck reserve

Conservation Importance

• Protects one of Maharashtra’s last natural grassland ecosystems

• Safeguards the blackbuck, a Schedule-I species

• Conserves habitat for grassland birds and predators

• Promotes awareness of non-forest wildlife landscapes

• Supports long-term ecological research

FAQ – Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary

Where is Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary located?

In Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra.

Why is Rehekuri Wildlife Sanctuary famous?

It is renowned for its blackbuck conservation efforts.

Are tigers or leopards found here?

No. The sanctuary is primarily a grassland ecosystem without large forest predators.

Is Rehekuri suitable for birdwatching?

Yes, especially for grassland and migratory bird species.

Is overnight stay allowed inside the sanctuary?

No. The sanctuary is generally visited as a day trip.

People Also Ask (PAA)

When was Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary established?
In 1980.

Which animal is protected at Rehekuri Sanctuary?
The blackbuck, India’s state animal of Andhra Pradesh and a protected species.

What type of habitat does Rehekuri protect?
Dry grassland and scrubland ecosystems.

Is Rehekuri important for conservation?
Yes, it is one of the most important grassland reserves in western India.

Conclusion

Rehekuri Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a vital reminder that wildlife conservation extends beyond forests and tigers. By protecting grasslands and the graceful blackbuck, the sanctuary preserves a fragile ecosystem that is often overlooked. For visitors seeking a different yet equally rewarding wildlife experience in Maharashtra, Rehekuri offers insight into the beauty and importance of India’s grassland heritage.

 

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Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala | Western Ghats Biodiversity Reserve

Located in the Western Ghats of northern Kerala, Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary is an ecologically sensitive and lesser-known protected area that plays a crucial role in conserving montane forests and river catchments. Its untouched landscapes, high-altitude terrain, and rich biodiversity make it an important conservation zone rather than a conventional tourist destination.

Location & Geography

• State: Kerala

• Districts: Kozhikode & Malappuram

• Part of: Western Ghats (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Terrain: High-altitude hills, steep valleys, dense forests

The sanctuary forms part of the Vellarimala mountain range, which is vital for water security in northern Kerala.

Why Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary Is Important

• Protects high-altitude Western Ghats forests

• Critical watershed for Bharathapuzha river tributaries

• Rich in endemic flora and fauna

• Minimal human disturbance

• Acts as an ecological corridor

Forest Types & Vegetation

Vellarimala supports diverse forest ecosystems:

• Tropical evergreen forests

• Semi-evergreen forests

• Shola-grassland systems at higher elevations

• Moist deciduous patches

These forests help regulate climate and water flow in the region.

Wildlife of Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary

Mammals

• Asian elephant

• Leopard

• Sambar deer

• Wild boar

• Malabar giant squirrel

Birdlife

• Malabar whistling thrush

• Nilgiri flycatcher

• Grey-headed bulbul

• Raptors and forest birds

Reptiles & Amphibians

• Endemic frogs of the Western Ghats

• Snakes and lizards adapted to montane forests

Ecotourism & Activities

Note: Vellarimala is primarily a conservation-focused sanctuary with limited or no mass tourism.

• Nature awareness programs (with permission)

• Scientific research and biodiversity surveys

• Forest trekking (restricted & permit-based)

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Remarks
Winter	Nov – Feb	Pleasant climate
Summer	Mar – May	Dry but accessible
Monsoon	Jun – Sep	Restricted access

November to February is the most suitable period for permitted visits.

How to Reach

• By Road:

  • Kozhikode → Thamarassery → Forest access points

• By Rail:

  • Kozhikode Railway Station (≈55 km)

• By Air:

  • Calicut International Airport (≈65 km)

Entry & Permissions

• General tourism is limited

• Forest department permission required

• Entry only for research, trekking, or official purposes

Nearby Places to Visit

• Thamarassery Churam (Ghat Road)

• Kakkayam Dam & Forests

• Nilambur Teak Museum

• Silent Valley National Park

• Aralam & Wayanad Wildlife regions

Conservation Importance

• Protects fragile montane ecosystems

• Maintains water sources for northern Kerala

• Preserves endemic Western Ghats species

• Acts as a climate buffer against deforestation

• Supports long-term biodiversity resilience

Vellarimala is crucial for ecological stability rather than tourism revenue.

FAQ – Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary

Where is Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary located?

It is located in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts of Kerala.

Is Vellarimala open to tourists?

No regular tourism; entry is restricted and permission-based.

Why is Vellarimala ecologically important?

It protects high-altitude forests and vital river catchments.

What wildlife is found here?

Elephants, leopards, deer, endemic birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Is Vellarimala part of the Western Ghats?
Yes, it lies within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Does Vellarimala support endemic species?
Yes, many plant and animal species are endemic to this region.

Are trekking activities allowed?
Only with forest department approval.

Is Vellarimala suitable for wildlife photography?
Limited access makes it suitable mainly for research documentation.

Conclusion

Vellarimala Wildlife Sanctuary is a silent guardian of Kerala’s high-altitude forests and water systems. Though not designed for mainstream tourism, its ecological value is immense. Preserving Vellarimala ensures the long-term survival of Western Ghats biodiversity and sustains life far beyond its forest boundaries.

 

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Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala | Rainforests & Wildlife Guide

Tucked deep within the southern Western Ghats, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala’s most pristine forest reserves. As part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, the sanctuary protects vast stretches of evergreen rainforest, rich wildlife, and the upper catchments of the Kallada River. With limited tourism and high ecological value, Shendurney is ideal for travelers seeking untouched wilderness.

Location & Geography

• State: Kerala

• District: Kollam

• Area: ~172 sq km

• Nearest Town: Thenmala

The sanctuary lies adjacent to the Thenmala Eco-Tourism Zone and includes forested hills, valleys, and reservoirs.

Why Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Is Special

• Part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve

• One of Kerala’s least disturbed rainforest habitats

• Important elephant corridor

• Rich endemic flora and fauna

• Limited, low-impact eco-tourism

Flora of Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is dominated by:

• Tropical evergreen rainforests

• Semi-evergreen forests

• Moist deciduous patches

• Riparian vegetation along streams

Many plant species here are endemic to the southern Western Ghats.

Fauna of Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Mammals

• Asian elephant

• Indian gaur

• Leopard

• Sloth bear

• Sambar and barking deer

• Nilgiri langur

Birds

• Great hornbill

• Malabar trogon

• White-bellied treepie

• Hill myna

• Drongos and raptors

Reptiles & Amphibians

• King cobra

• Malabar pit viper

• Monitor lizard

• Endemic frogs

Things to Do at Shendurney

Wildlife Observation

Wildlife sightings are best during early morning and late afternoon.

Birdwatching

Excellent for spotting Western Ghats endemic species.

Nature Walks

Guided treks offer insights into rainforest ecology.

Backwater Views

Scenic stretches of reservoir waters add to the landscape beauty.

Best Time to Visit

Season	Months	Experience
Winter	Oct – Feb	Best weather and wildlife activity
Summer	Mar – May	Animal sightings near water
Monsoon	Jun – Sep	Lush forests, restricted access

October to March is the ideal visiting period.

How to Reach

• By Road:

  • Thenmala → Shendurney (≈20 km)

• By Rail:

  • Kollam Railway Station (≈65 km)

• By Air:

  • Trivandrum International Airport (≈75 km)

Entry Fees & Permissions

• Entry allowed only with Forest Department permission

• Guided visits are mandatory

• Prior booking recommended

Nearby Attractions

• Thenmala Eco-Tourism

• Thenmala Dam

• Palaruvi Waterfalls

• Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

• Ponmudi Hills

Conservation Importance

• Protects evergreen rainforests of the southern Western Ghats

• Safeguards elephant migration routes

• Preserves endemic and endangered species

• Maintains watershed health of the Kallada River

Shendurney is a key stronghold for rainforest conservation in Kerala.

FAQ – Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Where is Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary located?

In Kollam district, Kerala, near Thenmala.

Is Shendurney suitable for wildlife safaris?

Safaris are limited; guided walks are more common.

Is it part of a biosphere reserve?

Yes, it lies within the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve.

Is it good for birdwatching?

Yes, it is excellent for birding, especially endemic species.

People Also Ask (PAA)

What is Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
Its pristine rainforests and biodiversity.

How far is Shendurney from Thiruvananthapuram?
Approximately 75 km.

Can families visit Shendurney?
Yes, with guided and regulated access.

Is trekking allowed?
Only guided trekking with permission is allowed.

Conclusion

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary represents the untouched heart of Kerala’s southern Western Ghats rainforests. With its exceptional biodiversity, ecological significance, and tranquil landscapes, it is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking authentic wilderness experiences beyond mainstream tourist circuits.

 

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Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary (Nathsagar) – Migratory Birds, Best Time & Travel Guide

Located near Paithan in Aurangabad district, the Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary—also known as Nathsagar Bird Sanctuary—is one of Maharashtra’s most important wetland ecosystems. Built around the vast Jayakwadi Dam on the Godavari River, the sanctuary serves as a crucial wintering and breeding ground for migratory and resident waterbirds.

Declared a bird sanctuary in 1986, Jaikwadi is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a tranquil wetland experience amid central Maharashtra.

Birdlife at Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary

Migratory Birds

During winter, the sanctuary hosts thousands of migratory birds from Central Asia, Europe, and Siberia:

• Greater Flamingo

• Demoiselle Crane

• Bar-headed Goose

• Northern Pintail

• Gadwall

• Common Teal

• Shoveler

• Pochards

• Black-tailed Godwit

Resident & Local Birds

• Painted Stork

• Spot-billed Pelican

• Spoonbill

• Openbill Stork

• Grey Heron

• Egrets & Ibises

• Cormorants & Darters

🦩 Winter mornings often turn the reservoir pink with flamingo flocks.

Other Wildlife

Although primarily a bird sanctuary, Jaikwadi also supports:

• Indian Otter

• Jackal

• Monitor Lizard

• Frogs, fish, and freshwater turtles

The wetland sustains rich aquatic biodiversity that attracts birds year-round.

Habitat & Landscape

Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary protects:

• Freshwater reservoir wetlands

• Mudflats and shallow water zones

• Marshy islands and reed beds

• Agricultural fringes

These varied habitats provide feeding, roosting, and nesting sites for birds.

Best Time to Visit

• November to February – Peak migratory season and best bird sightings

• October & March – Moderate bird diversity and pleasant weather

• Monsoon (July–September) – Lush landscapes but fewer migratory birds

Things to Do

• Birdwatching & Photography

• Nature Walks along reservoir edges

• Educational Visits for students

• Sunrise & Sunset Photography

• Wetland Ecology Observation

📸 Early mornings offer the best light and maximum bird activity.

Nearby Attractions

• Paithan (Pratishthan) – Ancient town on the Godavari River

• Jayakwadi Dam Viewpoint – Panoramic reservoir views

• Aurangabad City – Cultural and historical hub

• Ajanta Caves – UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Ellora Caves – World-famous rock-cut architecture

Conservation Importance

• One of Maharashtra’s largest inland wetland sanctuaries

• Vital wintering ground for international migratory birds

• Maintains wetland biodiversity of the Godavari basin

• Supports fish populations and local livelihoods

• Acts as an important bird migration stopover in peninsular India

FAQ – Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary

1. Where is Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary located?

It is located near Paithan, about 50 km from Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

2. What birds are Jaikwadi famous for?

Flamingos, cranes, pelicans, storks, ducks, geese, and migratory waders.

3. Is boating allowed inside the sanctuary?

Boating is restricted and allowed only with official permission.

4. What is the best time to see migratory birds?

December and January offer the highest bird diversity.

5. Is the sanctuary suitable for families?

Yes, it is safe and ideal for family visits and educational tours.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Why is Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary important?

It is a key wetland supporting migratory birds and maintaining regional water ecology.

Is photography allowed at Jaikwadi?

Yes, photography is allowed for personal use while maintaining distance from birds.

How big is Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary?

It covers an area of approximately 341 sq km, including the reservoir.

Does Jaikwadi dry up in summer?

Water levels reduce, but some birdlife remains year-round.

Conclusion

Jaikwadi Bird Sanctuary is a shining example of how man-made wetlands can become thriving biodiversity hotspots. With its vast waters, seasonal flamingos, and diverse migratory birds, the sanctuary offers one of the best birdwatching experiences in Maharashtra. For nature lovers exploring Aurangabad and beyond, Jaikwadi is an unmissable stop on the state’s wildlife trail.

 

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Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary Maharashtra – Wildlife, Best Time & Travel Guide

Nestled deep within the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the state’s most ecologically significant protected areas. Located primarily in Satara district, the sanctuary forms the core of the Koyna–Chandoli Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Western Ghats Natural World Heritage listing.

With dense evergreen forests, misty hills, rivers, and the massive Koyna Dam, this sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot and a vital corridor for large mammals. 

Wildlife of Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

Major Mammals

• Bengal Tiger

• Indian Leopard

• Sloth Bear

• Gaur (Indian Bison)

• Sambar Deer

• Barking Deer

• Wild Dog (Dhole)

• Indian Giant Squirrel

Birdlife

Koyna’s forests and water bodies support rich avifauna:

• Malabar Whistling Thrush

• Grey Junglefowl

• Indian Hornbill

• Crested Serpent Eagle

• Paradise Flycatcher

• Woodpeckers, Sunbirds, and Drongos

Reptiles & Amphibians

• Indian Rock Python

• King Cobra

• Bamboo Pit Viper

• Endemic frogs of the Western Ghats

Habitat & Landscape

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary protects:

• Tropical evergreen forests

• Semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests

• Grasslands and hill slopes

• Riverine ecosystems around Koyna River & reservoir

The sanctuary lies in a high-rainfall zone, making it one of Maharashtra’s greenest regions.

Best Time to Visit

• October to February – Cool weather, lush forests, best for wildlife tracking

• March to May – Warmer months, better chances near water sources

• Monsoon (June–September) – Very scenic but restricted access due to heavy rains

Things to Do

• Wildlife tracking and nature walks

• Birdwatching in forest clearings

• Landscape and rainforest photography

• Eco-education and biodiversity study

• Exploring Koyna Dam viewpoints

⚠️ Tourism is regulated; visits are usually permitted with forest department approval.

Nearby Attractions

• Koyna Dam – One of India’s largest dams

• Chandoli National Park – Part of the same tiger reserve

• Mahabaleshwar – Popular hill station

• Tapola (Mini Kashmir) – Backwater destination

• Vasota Fort – Trekking and historical site

Conservation Importance

• Core habitat of the Koyna–Chandoli Tiger Reserve

• Protects Western Ghats endemic flora and fauna

• Acts as a critical wildlife corridor between Maharashtra and Karnataka

• Conserves watersheds feeding the Krishna River system

• Supports climate regulation and monsoon stability

FAQ – Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Where is Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary located?

In Satara district, Maharashtra, within the Western Ghats.

2. Is Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary part of a tiger reserve?

Yes, it is part of the Koyna–Chandoli Tiger Reserve.

3. Can tourists visit the sanctuary freely?

Access is regulated and usually requires permission.

4. What animals are commonly found here?

Tigers, leopards, gaur, deer, sloth bears, and wild dogs.

5. Is Koyna a UNESCO site?

Yes, it falls under the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Why is Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary famous?

For its tiger habitat, evergreen forests, and UNESCO recognition.

Is Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary good for birdwatching?

Yes, it supports many Western Ghats endemic bird species.

What is the best season to visit Koyna?

Post-monsoon and winter (October–February).

Are accommodations available nearby?

Limited eco-stays and lodges are available around Koyna Nagar and Satara.

Conclusion

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary represents the untouched wilderness of the Western Ghats—dense forests, flowing rivers, and thriving wildlife. As a key component of Maharashtra’s only UNESCO-listed natural landscape, Koyna plays a vital role in tiger conservation, water security, and biodiversity protection. It is a must-know destination for serious wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

 

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Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary – Wildlife, Trekking & Best Time to Visit

Located between Aurangabad and Jalgaon, the Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic forest landscapes. Spread over 260 sq km, this sanctuary is carved by deep valleys, basaltic plateaus, waterfalls, and rugged cliffs characteristic of the Deccan Traps.

Named after the historic Gautala village and the breathtaking Autramghat mountain pass, the sanctuary blends wildlife richness with dramatic geology—making it a paradise for trekkers, birders, and wildlife lovers.

Wildlife of Gautala Autramghat

Major Mammals

• Leopard

• Sloth Bear

• Hyena

• Sambar Deer

• Chital (Spotted Deer)

• Nilgai

• Four-horned Antelope

• Wild Boar

• Indian Langur & Bonnet Macaque

Birdlife

The mix of cliffs, forest, and water bodies attracts impressive avifauna:

• Crested Serpent Eagle

• Jungle Bush Quail

• Indian Peafowl

• Paradise Flycatcher

• Nightjars

• Vultures

• Bee-eaters, Robins, Drongos, Warblers

Reptiles

• Monitor Lizard

• Indian Rock Python

• Rat Snake

• Star Tortoise

• Skinks and Geckos

Habitats & Landscape

Gautala Autramghat features a rich blend of:

• Dry Deciduous Forests

• Shrublands

• Plateaus and Rocky Escarpments

• Streams, seasonal waterfalls, and deep gorges

This unique topography supports biodiversity comparable to Central Indian forests.

Best Time to Visit

• October to February – Best for trekking, wildlife sightings, and pleasant weather

• March to June – Hot but good chances of spotting animals around water sources

• Monsoon (July–September) – Waterfalls are stunning but trekking routes may be slippery

Things to Do in Gautala Autramghat

• Wildlife Safari & Nature Drive

• Trekking across Autramghat

• Waterfall exploration during the rainy season

• Birdwatching around cliffs and forest patches

• Photography of dramatic canyon landscapes

• Visiting ancient caves and temples within the sanctuary

Nearby Attractions

• Pitalkhora Caves – Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves inside the sanctuary

• Ajanta Caves – UNESCO World Heritage site

• Ellora Caves – Another UNESCO masterpiece

• Autramghat Pass Viewpoint – Scenic mountain pass

• Gautala Village – Nature trails and rural tourism

• Kannad Fort (Khedla Fort) – Historical hill fort

Conservation Importance

• Acts as a critical habitat for leopards and sloth bears

• Supports Deccan Trap ecosystem with unique geology

• Protects watersheds that feed Godavari basin tributaries

• Conserves grassland–forest mosaic vital for antelope species

• Provides a corridor between northern Maharashtra forest patches

FAQ – Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Where is Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary located?

It lies between Aurangabad and Jalgaon districts in Maharashtra.

2. What animals can be seen here?

Leopards, sloth bears, deer species, hyenas, antelopes, monkeys, and various birds.

3. Is safari available inside the sanctuary?

Yes, forest-guided nature drives and trekking routes are available.

4. What is the best time to visit?

October to February is ideal due to cool weather.

5. Are there waterfalls in the sanctuary?

Yes, monsoon brings several seasonal waterfalls across the valleys.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Is Gautala Autramghat good for trekking?

Yes, it offers some of Maharashtra’s best ghat and plateau treks.

How big is Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary?

It covers approximately 260 sq km.

Are the Pitalkhora Caves inside the sanctuary?

Yes, they are located within the forest limits.

Is the sanctuary safe for family visits?

Yes, with guided routes and daylight exploration, it is family-friendly.

Conclusion

Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique combination of wildlife, ancient heritage, waterfalls, and spectacular canyon landscapes. From leopards and sloth bears to serene trekking routes and ancient Buddhist caves, the sanctuary offers an unforgettable blend of nature and culture. For travelers seeking an offbeat yet richly rewarding wildlife experience in Maharashtra, Gautala Autramghat is a must-visit destination.

 

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