Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the district of Pratapgarh in the north-west Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a dense forest area with thick deciduous plantations that include trees like Gulmohar, Sindoor, Rudraksha, Bamboo, Bel, etc. Botanists have spotted 108 medicinal herbs in the sanctuary out of which about 17 are endangered ones. The rivers Sitamata, Budho, Tankiya, Jakham and Karmoi flow through the sanctuary along with several other water bodies providing a continuous supply of water to the fauna and flora in the region. According to a Hindu legend, the Valmiki Ashram was located in this forest. It is, therefore, called the Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary. The area also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Sita. Archaeologists have spotted several rocks that have carvings have prehistoric animals. The sanctuary is thus considered to be of immense historical importance also. 

The abundantly lush sanctuary expands over an area of 423 square kilometres and was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1979. It is an interesting amalgamation of three different formations - the Vindhyachal Hills, the Malwa Plateau and the Aravali Hills. One can find Leopards, Flying Squirrel, a variety of reptiles, Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, Neelgai, Hyenas, Chousingha, Four Horned Antelopes, etc. in the wilds. Bird watchers often visit the sanctuary to observe birds like the Egret, Owls, Herons, Rubby Shelduck, Eagles, Vultures, Peafowls, Purple Moorhen, Saras Cranes, Common & Wood Sandpiper, Quails, Pigeons, Black Winged Stint, Cotton Teal, etc. The Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary is a treat for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts. Photographers can capture the wildlife of Rajasthan and have a great time exploring the sanctuary.