Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Maharashtra at the meeting point of three Tehsils of Sangli district namely Palus, Walva and Kadegaon. It is a man made wildlife sanctuary having artificially cultivated forest and is devoid of any perennial water supply. The majority of wildlife dwelling in the sanctuary has been introduced artificially. It spans over an area of 10.87 square kilometres. The place is significant archaeologically, culturally and religiously. It has been named after the ancient Shiva temple which allures several devotees. The status of the place progressed gradually. Initially it was regarded as a park and later in 1980 it became Sagaroba Game Reserve. In the year 1985 it was declared as Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Flora of Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary has good forest cover and the hill slopes are grassy. The vegetation of the protected area mainly comprises southern thorn and southern dry mixed deciduous forest. The forest is protected from forest fire and grazing which has resulted in a good growth of dry deciduous species. Khair, Agave, Acacia, Nilgiri, Neem and Tamarind are some of the plants which have been introduced by the forest department of India.
Fauna of Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary shelters a number of vibrant fauna such as Wild Boar, Chital, Muntjac, Black Buck, Sambar Deer, Peacock etc. Carnivores of the forest include Porcupines, Fox, Hyena and others. Apart from these several birds, insects and snakes are also the residents of the sanctuary.
Tourism in Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is an alluring tourist spot. Hiking to the top of a hill standing in the sanctuary is one of the most cherished activities here. From the top of the hill a panoramic view of the Krishna River meandering through the fields of grapevines and sugarcane can be enjoyed. The place also houses many shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, belonging to the Chalukya dynasty. In fact it comprises a large temple along with a complex of 51 small temples. The Krishna Valley Wine Park in the sanctuary is also famous. Kamal Bhairao temple in the sanctuary stands on the edge of a steep cliff and is partially carved from hard Basalt rock. A narrow tunnel forms the entrance of the temple.
Visiting Information
Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is best visited from August to February. Kolhapur (85 kilometres) is the nearest airport whereas the nearest railway station to the sanctuary is Karad (35 kilometres). Buses can also be availed from various nearby towns.
