Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is a quiet and lesser-known protected area located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, forming part of the Vidarbha forest landscape. Named after the Wan River, the sanctuary is known for its peaceful forest environment, diverse flora and fauna, and its role in conserving dry deciduous ecosystems of central India.
Unlike crowded tiger reserves, Wan Wildlife Sanctuary offers a calm, offbeat wildlife experience, ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and researchers.
Location & Geography
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State: Maharashtra
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District: Amravati
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Established: 1997
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Area: ~211 sq km
The sanctuary lies close to the Satpura foothills, with undulating terrain, seasonal streams, forested hills, and open grass patches. The Wan River and its tributaries provide crucial water sources for wildlife.
Why Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Is Important
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Protects dry deciduous forest ecosystems of Vidarbha
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Acts as a wildlife corridor between forest patches
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Supports lesser-known but ecologically vital species
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Low tourism pressure ensures minimal disturbance
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Important for birdlife and small mammals
Flora of Wan Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is dominated by southern tropical dry deciduous forests, including:
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Teak
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Ain
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Tendu
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Mahua
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Bamboo
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Palas
These forests support seasonal flowering plants and provide food for herbivores and birds.
Fauna – Wildlife of Wan
Mammals
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Leopard
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Sloth Bear
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Indian Gaur
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Sambar
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Chital
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Barking Deer
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Wild Boar
Birds
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Peafowl
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Grey Junglefowl
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Crested Serpent Eagle
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Drongos
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Parakeets
Reptiles
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Indian Python
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Monitor Lizard
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Cobra and Rat Snake
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly valuable for mid-level predators and herbivores.
Things to Do
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Nature Walks & Forest Exploration
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Birdwatching during early mornings
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Wildlife Photography (with permission)
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Educational Visits for students and researchers
Jeep safaris are limited and subject to forest department approval.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct – Feb | Pleasant weather, best wildlife viewing |
| Summer | Mar – May | Animals near water sources |
| Monsoon | Jun – Sep | Lush greenery, limited access |
How to Reach
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By Road:
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Amravati → Wan Sanctuary (≈90 km)
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By Rail:
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Amravati Railway Station
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By Air:
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Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur (≈200 km)
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Entry & Permissions
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Entry: Requires permission from the Forest Department
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Timings: Daytime visits only
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Guides: Mandatory for forest entry
Overnight stay inside the sanctuary is generally not permitted.
Nearby Attractions
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Melghat Tiger Reserve
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Chikhaldara Hill Station
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Gugamal National Park
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Wan River scenic stretches
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Amravati city heritage temples
Conservation Importance
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Preserves dry deciduous forest biodiversity
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Supports watershed protection of the Wan River
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Acts as buffer habitat for wildlife movement
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Prevents habitat fragmentation in Vidarbha
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Enhances ecological stability in eastern Maharashtra
FAQ – Wan Wildlife Sanctuary
Where is Wan Wildlife Sanctuary located?
In Amravati district, Maharashtra.
Is Wan Wildlife Sanctuary a tiger reserve?
No, but leopards and other large mammals are present.
Is tourism well developed here?
No, it is a low-key and minimally disturbed sanctuary.
Is permission required to visit?
Yes, forest department permission is mandatory.
Is Wan suitable for birdwatching?
Yes, especially during winter months.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is Wan Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
Its peaceful forests and Vidarbha biodiversity.
Are safaris available in Wan Wildlife Sanctuary?
Limited and permission-based; not regular tourist safaris.
Which river flows through Wan Sanctuary?
The Wan River.
Is Wan Wildlife Sanctuary good for eco-tourism?
Yes, for responsible and low-impact nature tourism.
Conclusion
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary represents the quieter side of Maharashtra’s wildlife heritage. Free from heavy tourism and commercial activity, it plays a vital role in protecting Vidarbha’s forest ecosystems and wildlife corridors. For travelers seeking solitude, authentic nature, and meaningful conservation landscapes, Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem waiting to be explored responsibly.
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