Located just a few kilometres from Dehradun Airport, Thano Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Uttarakhand’s most underrated biodiversity hotspots. Spread across dense sal forests and gentle hill slopes, this sanctuary is known for:
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Rich bird diversity, including migratory species
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Rare butterflies and insects
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Sal and mixed deciduous forest ecosystems
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Quiet trails ideal for weekend nature escapes
Proximity to Dehradun, Rishikesh & Mussoorie
Whether you're a birder, nature photographer, or someone looking for peaceful forest walks, Thano offers an easy and refreshing wilderness experience.
Top Attractions in Thano Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Birdwatching Trails
Thano is a birding paradise, especially between October and March. Common sightings include:
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Scarlet Minivet
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Indian Paradise Flycatcher
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White-throated Kingfisher
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Crested Serpent Eagle
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Black-headed Jay
2. Butterfly Hotspot
The sanctuary hosts dozens of butterfly species, especially during spring and early monsoon.
3. Dense Sal Forests
The landscape is dominated by ancient sal, bamboo, and mixed broadleaf trees — perfect for long nature walks.
4. Seasonal Streams
Small forest streams flow during monsoons, enriching the biodiversity and making the landscape vibrant.
5. Peaceful Nature Trails
Unlike crowded tourist spots, Thano offers:
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Undisturbed silence
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Thick forest cover
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Bird calls echoing through valleys
A great place for meditation, photography, or slow travel.
Best Time to Visit
✔ October to April (Best for birdwatching & pleasant weather)
✔ July to September (Lush greenery & butterfly activity)
Avoid peak summer afternoons, as temperatures may rise within the forest.
How to Reach Thano Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Airport:
Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (3–5 km)
Nearest Railway Station:
Dehradun Railway Station (25–30 km)
By Road:
Easily accessible from:
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Dehradun (20 km)
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Rishikesh (22 km)
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Haridwar (40 km)
Public transport and taxis are readily available.
Nearby Attractions
1. Rajaji National Park (10–15 km)
Famous for elephants, tigers, and birdwatching routes.
2. Maldevta (12 km)
A scenic river picnic spot with shallow streams and forest views.
3. Rishikesh (22 km)
Yoga city by the Ganges—rafting, temples, and adventure sports.
4. Doiwala Forest Belt
Another rich wildlife corridor connecting Rajaji landscapes.
5. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple (25 km)
A natural cave temple near Dehradun.
Conservation Importance
Thano Wildlife Sanctuary plays an essential ecological role:
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Acts as a buffer forest for Rajaji National Park.
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Supports migratory bird species during winter.
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Protects important sal forest ecosystems of the Doon Valley.
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Functions as a wildlife corridor for elephants, deer, and carnivores.
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Helps maintain groundwater recharge through forested catchments.
Its proximity to rapidly urbanizing Dehradun makes its protection even more crucial.
FAQ – Thano Wildlife Sanctuary
1. What is Thano Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
For its rich birdlife, sal forests, and peaceful nature trails near Dehradun.
2. Can I visit without a permit?
Yes, most areas are accessible, but visit responsibly and avoid restricted zones.
3. Are safaris available?
No jeep safaris, but nature walks and birdwatching are the main experiences.
4. Is Thano a good place for photography?
Absolutely—birdlife, forest landscapes, butterflies, and seasonal streams offer great visuals.
5. Is it safe for families?
Yes, it is calm and safe, provided basic forest precautions are followed.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Thano Wildlife Sanctuary part of Rajaji National Park?
It lies close to Rajaji and functions as a connected forest belt but is managed separately.
Is Thano good for birdwatching?
Yes, it is one of Dehradun’s best birding locations.
How far is Thano from Dehradun Airport?
Only 3–5 km, making it extremely easy to reach.
Is trekking allowed?
Short nature trails are allowed; long treks require checking with forest authorities.
Does wildlife like elephants visit Thano?
Yes, elephants migrate through the region seasonally.
Thano Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Uttarakhand’s most peaceful and biodiverse forest escapes—perfect for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and weekend travelers from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. With its dense sal forests, butterfly-rich clearings, and quiet walking trails, Thano offers a refreshing alternative to crowded hill stations and commercial tourist hubs.
Its proximity to Dehradun Airport, combined with its ecological role as a buffer to Rajaji National Park, makes it both an easily accessible destination and a crucial conservation zone. Whether you’re planning a short morning birdwatching trip, a nature photography walk, or an educational outing, Thano Wildlife Sanctuary promises a serene and enriching wilderness experience.
Protecting places like Thano ensures that Uttarakhand’s natural heritage continues to thrive—inviting more travelers to experience its wild beauty for generations to come.
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