Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, near the southern end of the Sahyadri hills in the Western Ghats, is a biodiversity hotspot and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Established in 1958, it is the oldest wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra and covers an extensive area of 351.16 square kilometers.

The sanctuary is renowned for its rich flora and fauna, providing a unique and diverse ecosystem. The tropical evergreen forests within the sanctuary are home to an impressive variety of plant species, including Anjani, Jambul, Hirda, and banana, which contribute to the lush and verdant landscape.

One of the sanctuary's main attractions is the Indian bison or gaur (Bos gaurus), which has a significant population within the reserve. Alongside the bison, visitors can spot a variety of mammals such as leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, sambar deer, and giant squirrels.

The sanctuary is also a paradise for bird watchers, with numerous avian species like vultures, eagles, jungle fowl, quails, plovers, sandpipers, owlets, doves, owls, and nightjars gracing the skies and trees.

The presence of two dams, Radhanagari Dam on the Bhogavati River and Kallamwadi Dam on the Dudhganga River, further enhances the sanctuary's biodiversity, supporting a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial life forms.

The lush forests, rolling hills, and serene water bodies create a picturesque backdrop for these excursions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.

The sanctuary's strategic location near other attractions such as the Konkan coast, Karud Ghat, Govandsari Kurli Dam reservoir, and Phonda Ghat makes it a comprehensive destination for nature and adventure lovers.