Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the southern part of Patiala in the Indian state Punjab, is the home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. It also serves as an inviting tourist destination which attracts visitors from far off regions. It spans over an area of about 654 hectares. Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is greatly relished by the tourists from all around the country. Although most part of the sanctuary is a forest, its certain parts have been converted into a deer park, a zoo and a pilot project on medicinal plants.
History of Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary
The place was declared as a protected forest as well as a wildlife sanctuary on 28th February 1952 under the Preservation of Fauna of Patiala Act, 1896. Previously the place served as a famed hunting reserve for the kings of Patiala state. In early times the Patiala Maharaja had imported German Wild Pig and Red jungle Fowl to the sanctuary for their amusement purpose. Apart from this the Spotted Deer and Black Buck were also presented to the sanctuary by the department of wildlife.
Flora and Fauna of Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary
Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Common flora found in the sanctuary include Karir, Bamboo, Karonda, Eucalyptus, Teak, Lasura, Imli, Khajoor, Jamun, Drek, Mango, Neem, Beri, Sirism, Kikar, Shisam, Mesquite, Toot and many more. The forest also shelters a vast variety of fauna such as Grey and Black Partridges, Quails, Brahminy Myna, Rhesus Monkeys, Wild Boar, Peafowl, Blue Bull, Jackal, Chital, Jackal, Black Buck, Hog Deer and others. Deer wandering around the forest offers a resplendent view.
Visiting Information
Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is best visited between the period of October and March as the weather during this time remains cool and amicable. Located at a distance of 5 kilometres from the city of Patiala, the sanctuary has a good connectivity. Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport, situated 63 kilometres away, and takes one and a half hour to reach. Patiala railway station is at a distance of 6.2 kilometres. Local buses and taxis can also be availed to reach the sanctuary.
