Dhangadhra Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Indian state of Gujarat is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India, spanning some 4950 sq kms in area.

The Rann of Kutch is a geographically unique landscape that was once an arm of the Arabian Sea. As the land separated from the sea by geological forces, it became a vast, featureless plain encrusted with salt that is inundated with water during the rains. The safari across the Little Rann visits the `bets’, islands on the ancient sea bed that are now higher grounds covered with grass and scrub. These `bets’ support a variety of wildlife including the Asiatic wild ass, that is not found elsewhere.

Major Wildlife Attractions - The wild ass is usually seen in small herds. The elegant blackbuck (Indian antelope), nilgai or blue bull (India’s largest antelope) and the graceful chinkara (Indian gazelle) are other mammals seen at the bets.

The main carnivores of the Little Rann of Kutch are the endangered Indian wolf, desert fox, Indian fox, jackals, desert and jungle cats, and a few hyenas. Smaller mammals like hares, gerbilles and hedgehogs, and reptiles like spiny tailed lizard, monitor, red and common sand boa, saw-scaled viper, cobra, Indian rat snake, etc, could also be seen during the safaris in the Rann.

Best Time to Visit - The best period to visit is from December to June. Sanctuary remain closed from July to November.

How to get there

Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Dhrangadhrais.

Road: Dhrangadhrais the closest town (22km; 14 miles). Visitors need to drive to the park.


General Info / Tips

For accommodation, contact:
The Sanctuary Superintendent,
Dhrangadhra District, Surendranagar,
Gujarat State or Desert Courser,
Camp Zainabad (near Dashada), Ahmedabad-382751.