Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary
The Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India. It was established in 1974 to conserve the critically endangered blackbuck antelope native to the Indian subcontinent. The sanctuary covers an area of 2.17 square kilometres and is home to a significant population of blackbuck antelopes.
The Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary is situated in the semi-arid region of Maharashtra, and vast grasslands and sparse vegetation characterize it. The sanctuary is a protected area home to various species of flora and fauna. Apart from the blackbuck antelope, the refuge is home to several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, including the Indian wolf, Indian fox, and Indian hare.
The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to observe the blackbuck antelope in its natural habitat. The blackbuck antelope is a beautiful, graceful animal with a distinctive white coat and long, spiralled horns. Visitors can watch these animals grazing in the open grasslands or running across the plains, providing a thrilling experience.
The Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary also offers visitors various trekking and hiking trails. Several hills surround the sanctuary, and visitors can trek to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary also has a watchtower that offers a bird's eye view of the sanctuary. The tower provides an excellent vantage point for observing the blackbuck antelope and other wildlife species.
The sanctuary is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the vegetation is not too dense, providing better visibility for wildlife viewing.
Places To Visit Near Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary:
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Approximately 40 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to various wildlife species, including the Indian Giant Squirrel and the Malabar Whistling Thrush. The sanctuary also houses the famous Bhimashankar Temple, a Jyotirlinga shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Bhimashankar Temple:
Located in Bhimashankar town, approximately 40 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Bhimashankar Temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva and is nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Sahyadri Hills.
Ozarde Waterfalls:
Situated around 60 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Ozarde Waterfalls is a beautiful cascade nestled in the hilly terrain of Maharashtra. It offers a serene and picturesque setting to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Karjat:
Located approximately 90 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Karjat is a scenic town known for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and trekking trails. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and river rafting. Karjat is also home to ancient cave temples like Kondeshwar and Ulhas Valley.
Junnar Caves:
Situated around 100 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Junnar Caves is a group of ancient rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves house Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Lenyadri Caves, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, are particularly famous among the Junnar Caves.
Shivneri Fort:
Located approximately 105 kilometres from Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary, Shivneri Fort is a historic hill fort known for its association with Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and has significant historical importance.
These are some of the places you can visit near Rehkuri Black Buck Sanctuary in Maharashtra. The region offers a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, historical sites, and religious attractions, providing a range of options for exploration.
