Pilibhit

Located in the Pilibhit Region and part of the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands ecosystem, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is home to over 127 animals, 556 birds and 2100 flowering plants. Contrary to what the name suggests, this reserve is replete with not only a variety of tigers, but also a plethora of rare and threatened species like Indian leopard, swamp deer, hispid hare and Bengal floricans. The Bengal Tiger and Dudhwa tiger are most prominent species that breed here. The reserve is a part of ‘Project Tiger’ which aims to project tigers. The northern region of this reserve is enclosed by majestic mountains and verdant trees while the southern one is home to two rivers; Kharka and Sarda.

The Chuka beach is at a distance of around 60 km from Pilibhit. It is nestled between Sardar Sarovar Dam and Sharda canal away from the hustle bustle to the city. This place is well maintained as the Indian Government looks after it. This is a best place to spend some quiet time amongst the nature while dipping your toes in the cold water.

Religious Places: Pilibhit is a multi-religious cultural hub. These are a few religious places to visit.

• Chattvi Padshahi Gurudwara: Chattvi Padshahi Gurudwara is situated in the Pakrdiya region of Pilibhit. This 4 centuries old pious place is dedicated to the sixth sikh guru, Guru Sri Har Govindji. It was constructed under the supervision of Guru Govind Singhji who while travelling to Nanakmatta fell in the beauty and tranquility that the place offered. This white marbled Gurudwara has splendid architecture and is a must visit.
• Gomat Taal: At a distance of 7 km from Pilibhit, a small reservoir named Gomaat Taal peacefully rests. It is the originating point of river Gomti which after flowing 800 km across Uttar Pradesh finally merges into Ganga. Once in this place, you will be awestruck not only by the gushing water but the trees and colourful birds that surround this place.
• Devha-Ghagra Sangam: To witness the pristine merging of two rivers, this is the place to visit. This is the place where two pious rivers; Devha and Ghagra become one. People of all caste and creed consider this place to be holy and take a bath in it to purify themselves. Visit this place and purge your soul by taking a dip in this melanging of pious rivers.
• Jaisantri Devi Temple: Located at a mere distance of 5 km, Jaisantri Devi Temple is a religious place among people. This 150 years old temple is wonderfully constructed. Even though the flood which took place in 2008 has destroyed some of its façade, it remains an architectural marvel. The celebrations that take place in this temple during Navratri is something to see.
• Raja Venu ka Tila: At a mere distance of a kilometer, Raja Venu ka Tila lies in ruins. But you must visit this dilapidated palace because of the historical significance that it holds. Raja Venu was considered to be a friend of Lord Krishna and is even mentioned in the epic of Mahabharata. Even after ruined, this place gives a glimpse of the grandeur and wealth that must have surrounded the palace.
• Dargah-e-Shahji: Miyan This holy place is built in remembrance of two great fakirs; Alaa Hazrat and Shahji miya. There are a lot of stories about these two men and their friendship. This holy shrine is visited by hundreds of people every year. While visiting this place make sure to offer a chaddar in the dargah to make your wish come true.
• Jama Masjid: This splendid while marbled mosque was built in 1769 by Hafiz Rahmat Khan in an attempt to replicate the Jama Masjid of Delhi. The Mughal style architecture juxtaposed with Bengali styled roof adds to his grandeur. Every Friday, a large number of people flock together to pray and perform rituals. And, every Tuesday a small market is put up which is filled with colourful items. Try and visit Jama Masjid on either of these days to enjoy its splendour to fullest.
• Gauri Shankar Temple: Situated on the banks of river Devha and Khakra, this 250 years old temple is an emblem of devotion which is visited by a large number of devotees every year. The idols of Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati which are placed in this temple are believed to have presented itself to some sagacious saints who later built this temple. Make sure to visit this magnanimous temple and seek blessings.
• Raja Ji Temple: Raja ji temple is built to remember the two benevolent members of royal family in Pilibhit; Raja Lalta Prasad and Sahau Har Prasad. Both of them dedicated their lives to serve for the people because of which the city could grow and prosper. Visit this temple to see the effect of these magnanimous men that they had on the locals because of which they shower their devotions on them.

The foothills of Himalaya being near to Pilibhit makes the weather pleasant throughout the year. The months between September and March are ideal to travel to this place. During this time the temperature is pleasant, soft breeze flows through the city and the crystal clear sky makes the place look enchanting. If you travel to Pilibhit in the months of December and January, be prepared to experience biting cold weather when the mercury drops to 3°C.
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