About the Park

Tucked in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttar Pradesh, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (also known as Pilibhit National Park) is a lush landscape of forests, rivers, and grasslands. It lies along the India–Nepal border and is one of India’s newer tiger reserves, declared in 2014.

Covering over 730 sq km, the park forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape, a vital wildlife corridor that connects several protected areas in India and Nepal. Its mix of sal forests, tall grasslands, and wetlands makes Pilibhit a serene yet thriving wilderness where tigers, deer, and hundreds of bird species coexist.

Wildlife & Habitat

Pilibhit’s landscape is a patchwork of dense forests, riverine belts, and swamps nourished by the Sharda and Ghaghara rivers.

  • Key Species: Bengal tiger, leopard, sloth bear, swamp deer (barasingha), spotted deer, sambhar, and wild boar.
  • Other Wildlife: Indian jackal, civet, jungle cat, rhesus macaque, and Indian hare.
  • Birdlife: Over 300 bird species, including the great hornbill, black-necked stork, osprey, and crested serpent eagle. It’s also an IBA (Important Bird Area).
  • Habitat: Dominated by sal forests, interspersed with grasslands and wetlands, creating an ideal setting for both large predators and rich biodiversity.

Safari Experience

Pilibhit offers a tranquil and intimate wildlife experience, still untouched by mass tourism.

  • Safari Types:
    • Jeep Safari: The main way to explore the reserve, available in multiple ranges.
    • Walking Trails & Watchtowers: Select zones allow short guided nature walks and birding points.
  • Safari Zones:
    • Madhotanda Range: Rich in tiger movement and scenic forest routes.
    • Mala Range: Excellent for birdwatching and wetlands.
    • Haripur Range: Lesser-visited, peaceful, and great for nature lovers.
  • Timings:
    • Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:30 AM
    • Evening: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Exact timings vary seasonally.)
  • Booking: Jeep safaris can be booked online through the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department website or at the park gate counters.

Best Time to Visit

  • Open Season: November to June.
  • Best Months: February to April and November to February for pleasant weather and high visibility.
  • Summer (May – June): Hot, but good for tiger sightings near waterholes.
  • Monsoon (July – October): Park remains closed due to heavy rain and flooding in low-lying areas.

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (110 km) and Bareilly Airport (60 km).
  • Nearest Railway Station: Pilibhit Junction (5 km) from the main gate.
  • By Road: Pilibhit is well-connected by road from Lucknow (250 km), Bareilly (60 km), and Delhi (300 km). Regular buses and taxis are available.

Where to Stay

  • Forest Rest Houses:
    • Madhotanda FRH: Located inside the reserve with basic but comfortable facilities.
    • Mustafabad FRH: Peaceful stay surrounded by sal trees.
  • Nearby Hotels:
    • Hotel Pancham International (Pilibhit town) – convenient and comfortable.
    • Pilibhit Forest Eco Huts: Managed by the Forest Department; ideal for nature lovers.
    • Private Resorts near Haripur and Mala Ranges: Small eco-lodges catering to wildlife tourists.

Travel Tips / Park Rules

  • Always carry photo ID for entry verification.
  • Book safaris in advance, especially during weekends.
  • Stay inside the vehicle during safaris and maintain silence.
  • Avoid loud clothing and perfumes; use neutral colors like beige or green.
  • Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
  • Carry binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and water.
  • Early mornings can be misty and cool, so bring a light jacket.

Packing List

  • Light cotton or linen clothes in earthy tones
  • Light jacket (for early mornings or winter)
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Water bottle and snacks
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Valid ID and safari permits
  • Comfortable walking or trekking shoes

Visitor Statistics

Pilibhit is growing in popularity but remains quieter than older reserves. It attracts around 40,000 – 50,000 visitors annually, offering a peaceful alternative to the crowded tiger parks of Central India.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Pilibhit is one of India’s newest tiger success stories.

  • Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2014, it has shown remarkable growth in tiger numbers, now home to over 60 tigers as per recent surveys.
  • The park connects to Dudhwa National Park and Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve (Nepal), forming a crucial corridor for tiger movement.
  • Conservation efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict, promoting eco-tourism, and involving local communities in protection.

To travel responsibly

  • Choose eco-friendly accommodations and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Support local guides, drivers, and homestays.
  • Respect park rules and wildlife viewing distances.
  • Do not leave waste behind take it back with you.