In
the Banaskantha district, Jessore Sloth
Bear Sanctuary is located, 45 kms. from Palanpur. Declared as Wildlife
Sanctuary and this 180.66 sq.km, in May 1978. Forest tract of Jessore hill and
adjoining areas is endowed with several exceptional and scarce species of flora
and fauna. The forests of the sanctuary play an important role in conservation for
depleting Aravali ecosystem. This area acts as a buffer and separates the
desert ecosystem from the dry deciduous form of ecosystem. The tree clad
terrain helps in arresting the process of desertification and advancement of
Thar Desert.
In
the folds of Aravali hills, this sanctuary is situated. Jessore hill is the
second highest peak in Gujarat. The endangered Sloth Bear is finding here and
that’s why it is known for. The other important faunal species are leopards,
Rhesus macaque, Indian civet fox, cat, striped, porcupine, hyena, wild boar
etc.
The
multistoried forest provides a suitable habitat for variety of birds ranging
from water birds to land birds. As per the IUCN classification many rare and
endangered species of natural world are also found in this sanctuary. The
reptiles include snakes, tortoises and lizards of various types. Beyond Muni ji
ki kutia, the rarest Indian Python is observed.
The
best time to visit the Sanctuary is post-monsoon to winter. The nearest railway
stations are Palanpur; 45 kms. And Iqbalgadh; 8 kms. Ahmedabad (178 kms) is the
nearest airport.
How to get there
By road: Ambaji is in Danta Taluka
of Banaskantha district, near the Gujarat-Rajasthan border. There is one
kilometer walk from the bus station to the temple, under a covered walkway. Including
Mount Abu, direct buses are available from many places, 45 km away, Palanpur,
65 km away, Ahmedabad, and Idar.
By air: Nearest airport is
Ahmedabad. For more information: Gujarat tours and travels.