Pilibhit National Park

Nestled in the Terai region, Pilibhit National Park is an eco-paradise known for its dense forests, serene rivers, and variety of flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh is a thriving habitat spread across the Terai belt, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, picturesque landscapes, and dedicated efforts to protect the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Pilibhit National Park

Pilibhit National Park also known as Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, located in Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, is a lush sanctuary renowned for its sal forests, diverse wildlife, and significant role in tiger conservation.

Finest Tiger Habitats

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, covering vast stretches of forest and grassland, is one of India’s finest tiger habitats, attracting visitors with its thrilling wildlife safaris, scenic beauty, and commitment to conservation efforts.

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Most Popular Resorts in Pilibhit National Park

Earthhome Pilibhit

Earth Home Pilibhit offers a perfect blend of wildlife adventure and serene comfort.

Sal Cottage Pilibhit

Sal Cottage Pilibhit is a peaceful retreat located close to the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve,

Bagh Home Pilibhit

Nestled close to the forest in Pilibhit, Bagh Home Stay is a serene retreat that blends rustic charm with warm hospitality.

Pilibhit National Park Safari

Pilibhit National Park offers both Morning and Afternoon Safari opportunities, allowing you to witness the captivating wildlife in their natural habitat.

Pilibhit National Park Morning Safari
Morning Safari:

The morning safari usually starts around sunrise, offering the best chances to spot wildlife during their active hours. Timings may vary slightly based on seasonal changes.

Winter : (1st November to 31st March)  6.30 am to 10.00 am

Summer : (1st April to 15th June)  6.00 am to 9.30 am

experience, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

Pilibhit National Park Afternoon Safari
Afternoon Safari:

The afternoon safari typically begins in the early afternoon and extends until sunset. This session also provides an excellent opportunity to observe the behavior of animals as they prepare for the night.

Winter : (1st November to 31st March)  2.30 pm to Sunset

Summer : (1st April to 15th June)  3.30 pm to Sunset

Pilibhit National Park - Jungle Safari Timings

Winter : (Nov 1 to March 31)

6.30 am to 10.00 am
2.30 pm to Sunset

Summer : (April 1 to June 15)

6.00 am to 9.30 am
3.30 pm to Sunset

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

A Sanctuary of Wilderness and Conservation Excellence

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, located in the lush Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, is a mesmerizing expanse of pristine forests, rolling grasslands, and rich wetlands. Officially declared a Tiger Reserve in 2014, it is one of India’s most significant conservation success stories, dedicated to the protection of the Bengal Tiger and the diverse ecosystem of the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Covering 730.2 km², the reserve forms a part of the Terai Arc Landscape (TAL), an extensive ecological corridor linking India and Nepal. It is uniquely enclosed by natural boundaries, including the Sharda River to the east, Khakra River to the west, and the Indo-Nepal border to the north, creating an ideal sanctuary for wildlife.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve plays a pivotal role in India’s wildlife conservation efforts, serving as a key link in the Dudhwa-Pilibhit-Katarniaghat forest complex, ensuring the genetic diversity and sustainability of its thriving tiger population.

History and Evolution of the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

From Hunting Grounds to a Tiger Haven
The history of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve dates back to the British colonial era, when it was a renowned hunting ground for royalty and British officials. These dense forests, once abundant with tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, were exploited for sport. However, with the rising global awareness of conservation, these forests gradually received protected status.


In 2008, the Government of India and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) identified Pilibhit’s rich biodiversity and high tiger density as crucial for conservation. Consequently, in 2014, it was officially declared India’s 45th Tiger Reserve, marking a major milestone in the country’s conservation journey.
Over the years, Pilibhit has transitioned from a hunting hotspot to a thriving tiger stronghold, earning international recognition for its commitment to wildlife preservation.

Geography and Landscape of Pilibhit National Park

A Dynamic Blend of Habitats
Pilibhit National Park boasts a stunningly diverse terrain, supporting a variety of ecosystems:

  • Dense Sal Forests – Providing essential cover and breeding grounds for big cats.
  • Tall Wet Grasslands – Offering prime grazing land for herbivores like swamp deer and hog deer.
  • Marshy Wetlands and Rivers – Nourished by the Sharda, Ghaghara, and Khakra rivers, fostering aquatic biodiversity.
  • Open Woodlands and Scrub Forests – Crucial habitats for species such as sloth bears and leopards.

The seasonal flooding from Himalayan rivers rejuvenates the land, ensuring fertile soil and lush vegetation, which in turn supports a rich and dynamic ecosystem.

Ecological Importance of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

A Key Component of the Terai Arc Landscape
Pilibhit is part of the Terai Arc Landscape (TAL), a cross-border conservation initiative that safeguards critical habitats across Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Nepal. This landscape remains one of the last surviving strongholds of the Terai grassland ecosystem, home to numerous endangered species.

Major Contributions of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve:

  • Bengal Tiger Conservation – A vital breeding ground ensuring a stable tiger population.
  • Wetland Protection – Sustaining crucial water resources for wildlife and human communities.
  • Climate Change Mitigation – The vast forest cover acts as a major carbon sink.
  • Biodiversity Hotspot – Supporting rare and endangered species, including the Bengal Florican.
  • Livelihood and Ecotourism – Providing economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism.

These factors make Pilibhit a crucial conservation site with both national and global significance.

The Tigers of Pilibhit: A Legacy of Strength and Survival

An Overview of Pilibhit’s Tigers

Pilibhit is home to a thriving population of Bengal Tigers (Panthera tigris tigris), which have adapted to the unique habitat of the Terai region. The reserve’s dense forests and abundant prey base provide an ideal environment for tigers to flourish. The tiger population in Pilibhit has witnessed a remarkable recovery, with their numbers increasing significantly in recent years, earning the reserve global recognition.

Notable Tigers and Their Lineage

Many individual tigers have gained recognition among conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts due to their unique markings, behavior, and success in raising cubs. Some well-known tigers in Pilibhit include:

  • T-1 (Rudra) – One of the dominant male tigers of the reserve, known for his vast territory and successful breeding history.
  • T-2 (Maya) – A famous tigress responsible for nurturing multiple litters, contributing significantly to the growing tiger population.
  • T-3 (Veer) – A young and aggressive male known for expanding his range and challenging older tigers.
  • T-4 (Choti) – A tigress often sighted near water bodies, recognized for her distinct facial markings.

The growing population of cubs, many fathered by dominant males like Rudra and Veer, ensures that Pilibhit continues to be a stronghold for Bengal Tigers.

Unique Features of Pilibhit’s Tigers

Pilibhit’s tigers display some fascinating behaviors and adaptations:

  • Expert Swimmers – Unlike tigers in dry landscapes, Pilibhit’s tigers frequently swim across rivers and marshes.
  • Thick Coat and Robust Build – Adapted to the wet and dense forest environment, they tend to have richer coats compared to tigers in central India.
  • Close-Knit Family Groups – Cubs often stay with their mothers longer than in other tiger reserves, thanks to the dense cover and abundant food sources.

What Makes Pilibhit Tiger Reserve Unique?

A Hidden Jewel Among India’s Tiger Reserves

Unlike heavily commercialized reserves such as Jim Corbett and Ranthambore, Pilibhit offers an undisturbed, intimate wildlife experience, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

Unique Aspects of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve:
  • Home to all five deer species of India – Spotted Deer, Sambar, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, and Barking Deer.
  • One of the last refuges of the critically endangered Bengal Florican.
  • Vital natural corridors linking Dudhwa, Kishanpur, and Nepal’s Suklaphanta Reserve.
  • Chuka Beach – A picturesque retreat within the reserve, perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.
  • An offbeat destination – Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking solitude in nature.
  • How to Reach Pilibhit National Park?

    By Air

    Nearest Airport is Lucknow which has direct flights to all major cities of India.

    By Train

  • District Pilibhit has well connected by railways. At present anybody can reach at this District via Bareilly.
  • From Delhi one has to reach first nearby district Bareilly or train then may reach Pilibhit by a bus or train.
  • By Road

    1- From Lucknow via Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Pilibhit 

    2- From New Delhi via Moradabad, Bareilly, Pilibhit

    3 – Pilibhit is also very well connected to Bareilly by BUS at the frequency of ½ hr. Direct buses are also available from Delhi, Lucknow, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kanpur, Rupaidhiya, Agra and Tanakpur etc.

    Major Activities to do in Pilibhit National Park

    Overview for Tourist

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