Wildlife Sanctuaries around Jodhpur

Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City”, is located on the western side of Rajasthan, near the edge of the Thar Desert. It is surrounded by nearby districts like Pali, Nagaur, Barmer, and Jaisalmer. The city has a rich history and was once the capital of the Marwar Kingdom. The famous Mehrangarh Fort stands tall over the city and is one of the best places to explore Rajasthan’s royal past. Jodhpur is also loved for its lively markets like Sardar Market, tasty local food, and colourful festivals such as Navratri, Gangaur, and the Marwar Festival.

But Jodhpur isn’t just about forts and festivals. It’s also a great place for nature lovers. There are many wildlife sanctuaries around Jodhpur where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and spot animals in their natural homes. In this blog, we’ll share a full guide to the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries near Jodhpur that are perfect for a short trip or weekend getaway.

1. Machia Biological Park (Near Kaylana Lake)

Distance from Jodhpur: ~8 km

Why It’s Famous: One of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries around Jodhpur. Machia Biological Park is known for its wide variety of desert and forest animals, such as panthers, hyenas, desert cats, and crocodiles. Set near the scenic Kaylana Lake, this park is part of the dry and rocky terrain typical of the Thar Desert region, offering a glimpse into the wildlife that thrives in arid conditions. It’s not only a great spot for families and school trips but also an ideal place to understand how wildlife in Jodhpur adapts to its harsh yet beautiful desert surroundings

Best Time to Visit:- Jan to March, when the weather is cool and animal sightings are more frequent.

Tickets:

• Adults: ₹30
• Children: ₹15
• Camera Fee: ₹100 (approx.)
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)

2 . Jawai Leopard Conservation Reserve

Distance from Jodhpur: ~150 km

Why it’s Famous :- This reserve offers one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in the region, making it a favorite for spotting wildlife in Jodhpur’s nearby landscape : Known for wild leopards living in harmony with local villagers, this unique area has granite hills and caves that serve as natural leopard dens. You may also see crocodiles and many bird species.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, especially early morning or sunset safaris.

Tickets:

• Jeep Safari: ₹3500–₹6000 (varies by time and provider)

Timings: Safaris typically run early morning and late afternoon

3. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~200 km

Why it’s Famous This is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries to visit near Jodhpur. Located in the lush green Aravalli Hills, this sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including leopards, sloth bears, chinkara, and wolves. It surrounds the historic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a unique mix of history and wildlife exploration. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal weekend trip from the city and a popular choice among those exploring wildlife sanctuaries around Jodhpur with a touch of heritage.

Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is perfect for safaris and treks.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹100 (approx.)
• Jeep Safari: ₹3000–₹4000 per group (varies by provider)
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

4 . Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~215 km

Why It’s Famous: Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, known as a blackbuck paradise. This is set in the flat grasslands of the Shekhawati region. Apart from hundreds of blackbucks, it’s also home to birds like harriers and desert foxes. The open landscape makes it excellent for spotting wildlife from a distance. It’s a quiet and peaceful destination, ideal for travellers seeking lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries near Jodhpur with minimal crowds.

Best Time to Visit: September to March, when both blackbucks and migratory birds are active.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹30
• Camera Fee: ₹100
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

5. Desert National Park (Jaisalmer)

Distance from Jodhpur: ~300 km

Why It’s Famous: Desert National Park wildlife around Jodhpur offers one of the most distinctive landscapes and animal experiences in the region. This national park is famous for housing the endangered Great Indian Bustard and other desert species like eagles, falcons, and blackbucks. It gives a true sense of Rajasthan’s dry ecosystem and is a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, especially during the bird migration season.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹100
• Guide Charges: ₹300–₹500
• Jeep Safari: ₹3000–₹3500

6 . Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~265 km

Why It’s Famous: This sanctuary offers a different side of wildlife in Jodhpur’s surrounding areas, especially for those looking for cooler weather and rich forest cover. Unlike the dry plains, Mount Abu offers a cool, green escape with animals like Indian leopards, langurs, and wild boars. Located in the only hill station of Rajasthan, it’s part of the Aravalli range and is known for its scenic trails and diverse plant life.

Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the climate is cool and pleasant.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: Free (charges apply for guide or private tours)
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

7. Sorsan Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~275 km

Why It’s Famous: For those searching for peaceful wildlife sanctuaries around Jodhpur, Sorsan offers untouched beauty away from mainstream tourist routes. Also known as the Sorsan Grasslands, this sanctuary is important for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard and is home to jackals, blue bulls, foxes, and a variety of birds.

Best Time to Visit: October to February, especially for birdwatching and calm nature walks.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: Generally free or minimal (check with local forest office)
• Timings: Sunrise to sunset

8. Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~245 km

Why It’s Famous: Recently declared as Rajasthan’s 4th tiger reserve, this sanctuary plays a key role in the Ranthambore tiger corridor. It features dry deciduous forests and houses panthers, hyenas, jungle cats, and deer species.

Best Time to Visit: November to April, before the peak summer heat begins.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100 (approx.)
• Safari Charges: Subject to availability and booking

9. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~270 km

Why It’s Famous: This is a great blend of history and nature, especially for those who enjoy wildlife around Jodhpur with an added touch of heritage. Close to Chittorgarh, this sanctuary combines natural beauty with historical richness. Animals like wild boars, jackals, and langurs roam the dense woodlands, making it a serene retreat for wildlife lovers.

Best Time to Visit: October to February, when the forests are lush and sightings are easier.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹50
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM

10. Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance from Jodhpur: ~370 km

Why It’s Famous: Kailadevi is among the more peaceful and unexplored wildlife sanctuaries near Jodhpur. This sanctuary is part of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve buffer zone. It’s less crowded but offers a natural habitat for leopards, sambhar deer, nilgai, and other native species.

Best Time to Visit: November to March, when wildlife is more active and vegetation is green.

Tickets:

• Entry Fee: ₹100
• Jeep Safari: Available via Ranthambore booking

Conclusion

Exploring the wildlife sanctuaries around Jodhpur gives you a deeper connection with nature and showcases the rich biodiversity of Rajasthan.  These sanctuaries are ideal for weekend escapes, short drives, or even planned wildlife tours.

And if you’re planning a road trip to these beautiful places, make sure you have a comfortable ride. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. So next time you think of wildlife and weekend plans—pack your bags, plan your route, and hit the road to discover the wild side of Jodhpur.