Tourist Attractions
Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is more than just a forest—it is a living museum of biodiversity, mythology, and religion. Key attractions include:
Rich Biodiversity: Home to over 350 species of birds and several endangered animals including swamp deer, leopards, hyenas, and gharials. The sanctuary provides a safe habitat for migratory birds during the winter months.
Ganga River Basin: The lifeline of the sanctuary, the Ganges flows gently through the reserve, attracting countless aquatic species and enhancing the ecological richness of the region.
Jain Temples of Hastinapur: The sanctuary surrounds several ancient and revered Jain temples, such as Shri Digamber Jain Bada Mandir and Kailash Parvat, which are major pilgrimage sites.
Ancient Sites of Mahabharata Era: Explore the remnants and legends of the mythological city of Hastinapur, believed to have been the capital of the Kauravas.
Bhadraj Temple and Other Shrines: Numerous small temples and shrines are scattered across the sanctuary, reflecting the spiritual harmony between nature and faith.
Things to Do
Whether you are visiting with friends, family, or solo, Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary promises an enriching itinerary:
Wildlife Safari and Bird Watching: Enjoy jeep safaris and nature walks where you can spot animals like nilgai, wild boars, and a variety of deer species. Don’t forget your binoculars for the incredible birding experience.
Photography: With its untouched forests, water bodies, and wildlife, the sanctuary is a paradise for landscape and wildlife photographers.
Boating in River Ganges: Some stretches of the Ganges flowing through the sanctuary allow safe and scenic boating experiences.
Visit to Religious Sites: Spend time meditating or attending religious events in the serene Jain temples and ancient shrines.
Educational Tours: Ideal for students and researchers, guided eco-tours can be arranged to study the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems.
How to Reach
Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible from major cities in North India:
By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (around 130 km). From there, one can take a taxi or board a train to Meerut or Muzaffarnagar.
By Train: Meerut and Muzaffarnagar are well-connected to Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun by train. From the station, taxis and local buses are available.
By Road: The sanctuary is approximately 40 km from Meerut and 100 km from Delhi. State buses and private taxis frequently travel on this route.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is between November and March when the weather is cool and pleasant, and migratory birds are in abundance. Summers (April–June) are hot and dry, making wildlife sightings more difficult, while monsoons (July–September) bring lush greenery but may hinder travel due to muddy tracks.
Why Choose This Tour
A perfect blend of nature, history, and spirituality in one destination
Spot rare and endangered wildlife in their natural habitat
Peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots
Learn about Indian mythology with firsthand experiences in the mythological capital of Hastinapur
Ideal weekend getaway from Delhi and other major North Indian cities