Exploring Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in the Baramati Tehsil of Pune district, Maharashtra, Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. Established in August 1997, this sanctuary spans approximately 5.14 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes.

📍 Location and Accessibility

Distance from Pune: Approximately 74 km southeast of Pune city.

Nearest Town: Supe village.

How to Reach:

By Road: Drive via the Pune–Solapur Highway (NH65). After Kedgaon, take a left towards Supe village. The sanctuary is not well-signposted there. Google will definitely take you to wrong location. Once google says You've Reached from there ask the locals for the exact directions :-) 

By Public Transport: Buses and trains are available to Daund (35 km away). From Daund, local transport can be used to reach the sanctuary. 

🕒 Timings and Entry Fees

Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

Entry Fees:

₹60 per person.
₹100 per vehicle.
₹100 per camera.
Optional guide services are available for ₹200. 

Tickets can be purchased at the forest office located at the sanctuary's entrance. The ticket counter will open post 9AM only, so plan your visit accordingly.

🌿 Flora and Fauna

Mayureshwar's landscape is characterized by dry deciduous scrub forests interspersed with grasslands. The flora includes species like Acacia catechu (Khair), Ziziphus mauritiana (Ber), and Carissa opaca (Karwand). 

Wildlife Highlights:

Mammals:

Indian Gazelle (Chinkara)
Indian Gray Wolf
Striped Hyena
Indian Fox
Indian Hare

Birds:

Short-Toed Snake Eagle
Bonelli's Eagle
Yellow-Wattled Lapwing
Indian Roller
Montagu's Harrier (migratory)
European Roller (migratory)

The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the migratory season.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and February. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife, especially migratory birds, are higher. 

🗺️ Activities and Exploration

Wildlife Safari: Visitors can drive their vehicles through designated trails or opt for guided tours to explore the sanctuary.

Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, the sanctuary is a paradise for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts.

Photography: The diverse landscapes and wildlife offer ample opportunities for photography.

🏞️ Nearby Attractions

Bhuleshwar Temple: An ancient Hindu temple located approximately 35 km from the sanctuary, known for its unique architecture and carvings.

Morgaon Mayureshwar Temple: One of the Ashtavinayak temples, situated close to the sanctuary, attracting devotees and tourists alike. 

📝 Tips for Visitors

Early Visits: Arriving early in the morning increases the chances of wildlife sightings.

Carry Essentials: Bring water, snacks, binoculars, and sun protection.

Respect Nature: Avoid littering and maintain a safe distance from animals.

Stay Informed: Check for any travel advisories or sanctuary guidelines before planning your visit.

Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique blend of tranquility and biodiversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts near Pune.