Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, Saputara - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 42 km from Waghai and 68 km from Saputara Bus Station, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in the Western Ghats between the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra, India. It is one of the most popular hotspots for bird watchers and among the best places to visit near Saputara.

Situated in the predominantly tribal district of Dangs, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a sanctuary in July 1990 which spread over an area of 160 Sq. km. The sanctuary derives its name from the Purna River, which flows through it. Managed by the North Dangs Forest Division, Purna is one of the last remaining patches of moist deciduous forest in Gujarat which supports huge range of flora and fauna. Purna, along with Vansda National Park, is the only Protected Area in South Gujarat for conserving diverse biological resources.

Known for its thick forest cover, Purna receives the highest average rainfall in the state. The landscape is completely lush green along with thick forests, interspersed with rivers and small tribal villages leaving visitors absolutely enchanted. There are about 700 species of plants and trees in Purna Wildlife Sanctuary. Leopard is the top predator here whose population has been increasing. Wild bulls, elephants, rhesus macaque, bonnet macaque, common mongoose, Indian civet cat, Indian porcupine, four-horned antelope, barking deer, sambar, chital, hyena, and jungle cat are among the other prominent animals found in the forest. The forest is also home to 139 species of birds and 116 species of spiders.

The main village of Mahal is at the center of the sanctuary on the banks of the Purna River, with a forest rest house. The place is the most preferred site for Nature Education Camps. The tourists can opt for a jeep safari during the sunset where they can observe the animals coming out to feed themselves or in search for food.

The ideal time to visit Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is during the months of October and February. There aren't many accommodation options at the sanctuary. The Mahal Eco Campsite offers limited rooms. So it is better to look for accommodations at Saputara as it has many hotels, cottages and log huts.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 20 per person, Rs. 200 for Car / Jeep, Rs. 1750 for Bus, Rs. 50 for Camera & Rs. 300 for Guide