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Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Area: 4953 sq. km
Major Wildlife Attractions: Wild Ass
Best time to visit: October to April
Places to Stay: Camp Zainabad, Govt. Guest House (Dhrangadhra)
About Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary
The Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary,
situated in the Indian state of Gujarat, is the largest wildlife
sanctuary in the country. In fact, it spans the entire area of the
little Rann of Kutch where small grass covered areas, known as baits,
forms the flora and is an important source to support the fauna of the
region.
Asses consists of members of the horse family which are found in
plenty in the region grazing on the grass covered expanse. The asses
are tough animals with no match in the animal kingdom for the power
and stamina they possess.
The best time to visit the sanctuary would be the post monsoon month
of October, when the grasslands are replenished with water and a
number of wild asses can be seen grazing upon and playing around in
the area. The months of December to March is the cooler period when
the weather is ideal for a wildlife safari. From April onwards, the
heat starts building and it can get scorching hot during May and June.
Wildlife Attractions in Wild
Ass Wildlife Sanctuary
Asses are the prominent attractions and the animal found in large
numbers in the region. Herds of these animals can often be sighted in
the area, grazing on the patches of grass. It is an interesting
experience to observe some of their peculiar habits.
Besides the asses, other animals that can be found in the area
include the endangered Ghudkhur, Blue-Bull, Chinkara, Hedgehog and
carnivores such as the Wolf, Jackal, Fox, Jungle and Desert Cats.
The avian population of the area is equally diverse with more than
300 species of birds already registered. Some of the famous birds
include Cranes, Flamingos, Houbara Bustard, Falcons along with a large
number of larks, another major attraction of the area.
The Rann of Kutch is also known for its varied reptile population
such as snakes, tortoises and lizards, most of which can not be found
anywhere else in the country. To sum up, the Wild Ass Wildlife
Sanctuary is habitat to around 93 species of invertebrates that
include 25 species of zooplanktons, 1 specie of annelid, 4
crustaceans, 24 insects, 12 molluscs and 27 spiders.
Jeep Safari is an excellent option to explore the vast open expanses
of the Rann of Kutch. The experience of observing animal habits from
close quarters is enhanced by the salubrious climate and the
breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset. Safaris of various durations
are organised but a trip of at least three to four days is recommended
to fully enjoy the experience. Besides the wildlife of the area,
safaris also cover a host of other attractions including historic
monuments, inland salt works and numerous other places of interest.
Camel safari can also be organised by the tour operators, on request.
Best Time to Visit Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary
The ideal time to visit the Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary is between
the months of October to April.
How to Get there
Air: Bhuj is the nearest airport, while Ahmedabad is the most
convenient airport, connected by Indian Airlines flight from Delhi
(6:00 & 18:15, daily) from Mumbai (5:30 & 19:30, daily)
Kolkata (15:45, daily).
Rail: Viramgam is the nearest railhead. It is connected to
Delhi through the ALA Hazrat Exp. (11:50, Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun) and
daily to Mumbai through the Bhavnagar Exp. (21:25), Saurashtra Mail
(20:25), Sau Janata Exp. (16:35), Kutch Exp. (17:10) & Saurashtra
Exp. (7:55)
Road: Wild Ass sanctuary is connected by road to other parts
of the country. One can get to the park in a four wheeler, preferably
a sturdy vehicle like a jeep, as the roads may be a bit bumpy and
uneven as some points. To reach from Ahmedabad, take the NH8A to
Sarkhej, state highway to Bajana via Sanand, Viramgam, Mandal, Dasada
and Zainabad. |
