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Dudhwa!

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Population

Various

schedule

Best Time

November to April

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Uttar Pradesh map North India 🦁 Wildlife Wildlife Tourism Dudhwa National Park Tiger Reserve Uttar Pradesh Wildlife Swamp Deer Elephant

Dudhwa National Park is a protected area in Uttar Pradesh, bordering Nepal. It's known for its tiger population, swamp deer, rhinos, elephants, and diverse birdlife. The park offers a remote and immersive wildlife experience.

Dudhwa is worth visiting for its raw wilderness and the chance to spot tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat. However, it's relatively inaccessible and requires patience and planning to maximize your chances of sightings. The park's remote location ensures fewer crowds but also limits accommodation options.

Getting to Dudhwa requires a long drive from Lucknow or a train journey followed by a jeep ride. Plan for at least two to three days to explore the park adequately and increase your chances of wildlife encounters. Booking accommodations and safaris in advance is highly recommended.

When To Visit

Best Time

November to April

10-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for wildlife viewing. Visibility is good, and animals are more likely to be seen near water sources.

Why Visit:

This is the dry season, making it easier to navigate the park's terrain. The chances of spotting tigers and other animals are higher as they come out in search of water. Birdwatching is also excellent during this period with migratory birds in the area.

Tip: Book accommodations and safaris well in advance as this is peak season. Prices for accommodations and transportation may be higher.

Shoulder Season

October, May

20-35 degrees C

The weather is transitioning, with either the end of the monsoon or the beginning of the hot season. Humidity can be high.

Why Visit:

The park is less crowded compared to the peak season, offering a more peaceful experience. You might find better deals on accommodations and safaris.

Tip: The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional showers or rising temperatures. Wildlife sightings might be less frequent.

Avoid

June to September

30-40 degrees C

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making many areas of the park inaccessible. The humidity is very high, and the heat can be oppressive.

Why Avoid:

The park is generally closed during the monsoon season due to flooding and poor road conditions. Wildlife sightings are extremely rare, and the overall experience is unpleasant.

Note: Some areas might open towards the end of September, but it's best to avoid visiting during the core monsoon months.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Dudhwa National Park Core Zone

⏱ 6-8 hours ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The core zone is the heart of Dudhwa National Park, offering the best chance to spot tigers, rhinos, and other wildlife. It features dense forests, gr...

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Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary

⏱ 4-6 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners)

Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna. It provides a more secluded and peaceful wi...

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Surmai Taal

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Surmai Taal is a scenic lake within the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, offering a tranquil escape and excellent birdwatching opportunities. It attracts a varie...

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Tharu Tribal Museum

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners)

The Tharu Tribal Museum showcases the culture and traditions of the Tharu tribe, the indigenous people of the Dudhwa region. It provides insights into...

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Nepal Border (Gauriphanta)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Gauriphanta marks the border crossing between India and Nepal, offering a glimpse into the neighboring country. It's a simple border crossing point wi...

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Rhino Rehabilitation Area

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

This area is dedicated to the rehabilitation and breeding of rhinos, which were reintroduced to Dudhwa National Park. It provides a safe haven for the...

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Bankati Picnic Spot

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Bankati is a picturesque picnic spot near the Dudhwa forest rest house, offering a relaxing environment amidst nature. It's a popular spot for familie...

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Things To Do

attractions

Jeep Safari

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹3500-5000 per jeep

Explore the Dudhwa National Park in an open jeep, accompanied by an experienced guide. The safari takes you through diff...

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attractions

Birdwatching

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person with a guide

Dudhwa National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 450 species of birds. Explore different areas of the park...

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attractions

Nature Walk

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 ₹200-500 per person with a guide

Explore the trails around Dudhwa National Park on foot, accompanied by a local guide. The nature walk allows you to expe...

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attractions

Elephant Ride

⏱ 1-2 hours 💰 ₹1000-1500 per person

Experience the thrill of riding an elephant through the forest and grasslands. The elephant ride provides a unique persp...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Tharu Village Visit

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000

Visit a Tharu village to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Tharu tribe, the indigenous peo...

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celebration

Tharu Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹300-500

Witness a traditional Tharu dance performance, showcasing the vibrant culture and traditions of the ...

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celebration

Local Market Visit (Palia Kalan)

2-3 hours | Free

Visit the local market in Palia Kalan to experience the vibrant atmosphere and local trade. The mark...

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celebration

Temple Visit (near Dudhwa)

1-2 hours | Free

Visit a local temple to experience the religious and cultural traditions of the region. The temples ...

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celebration

Cooking Class (Tharu Cuisine)

2-3 hours | ₹800-1200

Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Tharu dishes. Tharu cuisine is un...

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celebration

Attend a Local Festival or Fair

Variable | Free (usually)

Attend a local festival or fair to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the region. Fest...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Tharu Roti
Tharu Roti

Traditional flatbread made from rice flour (try at local villages).

Baghair Fish
Baghair Fish

Freshly caught fish from local rivers (available at restaurants in Palia Kalan).

Dal Baati Churma
Dal Baati Churma

A Rajasthani dish popular in the region (try at local dhabas).

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

A Bihari dish made of wheat and sattu (try at street food stalls in Palia Kalan).

Where to Eat

Tiger Trail Restaurant

Tiger Trail Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Near Dudhwa National Park

A popular restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and tasty food. Good for families and groups.

Butter ChickenChowmein

₹600-800 for two

Green Valley Restaurant

Green Valley Restaurant

₹₹

Indian

📍 Palia Kalan

A vegetarian restaurant serving delicious and authentic Indian dishes. A good option for vegetarians.

Vegetarian Thali

₹500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Palia Kalan Market

Palia Kalan Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be careful of hygiene and drink bottled water. Visit during the evening for the best selection.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Dudhwa

More restaurants & dishes from Dudhwa

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Dudhwa National Park Area

Best for wildlife enthusiasts who want to be close to the park. Limited amenities and higher prices.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts

Palia Kalan

Offers a wider range of accommodations and dining options. More convenient for transportation and access to local markets.

Best For: Budget travelers, families

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

Dudhwa Forest Rest House

📍 Inside Dudhwa National Park

Basic but well-located inside the park for wildlife viewing. Book well in advance through forest department.

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Land Mark Palia

📍 Palia Kalan

Offers simple rooms and basic amenities. Convenient for accessing Dudhwa National Park.

₹700-1200/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3500/night

Tiger Den Resort

📍 Near Dudhwa National Park

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant. Offers safari packages and guided tours.

₹2000-3500/night

Van Vilas Resort

📍 Near Dudhwa National Park

Provides a relaxing stay with spacious rooms and a garden. Offers safari arrangements and nature walks.

₹2500-4000/night

Luxury

₹4500+/night

The United Club Resort Dudhwa

📍 Near Dudhwa National Park

Offers luxurious accommodations with a swimming pool, spa, and fine dining. Provides personalized service and exclusive safari experiences.

₹4500+/night

Dudhwa Jungle Lore Resort

📍 Near Dudhwa National Park

Features elegant rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a bar. Offers customized safari packages and wildlife photography tours.

₹5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Lucknow Airport (LKO), 240km from Dudhwa

train

By Train

Stations:

Dudhwa (DDW)

Limited trains, check availability. Located near the park entrance.

Palia Kalan (PLK)

More trains available, located 10km from Dudhwa.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 8-10 hours (₹500-1500)
  • From Lucknow: 4-5 hours (₹300-800)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Palia Kalan Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Lucknow: 6-7 hours (₹400-600)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable than buses.

Getting Around

directions

Jeep

💰 ₹3500-5000 per day

Best for: Exploring the national park

Hire a jeep with a driver for safaris and sightseeing. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹100-300 per trip

Best for: Short distances within Palia Kalan

Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Available in Palia Kalan.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing, preferably in neutral colors. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Palia Kalan, but it's best to carry enough cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for most transactions, especially in local markets and small establishments.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for transportation.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Consult a doctor before traveling and carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good network coverage in the region. SIM cards are available at the airport and in Palia Kalan.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and resorts, but the connectivity can be unreliable.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the primary language spoken in the region. English is understood by some locals, especially in tourist areas.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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