Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary: A Detailed Travel Guide

Discover the enchanting Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, a hidden gem in Maharashtra, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This guide provides essential information to help you plan your visit.

Overview

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, once a private hunting reserve of the Siddi Nawabs of Murud-Janjira, was established in 1986 by the Maharashtra government to protect the region's rich biodiversity. Spanning 52 square kilometers, it is located in the Raigad district, along the western coast of Maharashtra.

Location and Accessibility

The sanctuary is approximately 154 kilometers from Mumbai, making it an easily accessible getaway for a weekend trip. It falls within the Murud and Roha talukas of Raigad district, under the Thane Wildlife Division.

Biodiversity

Phansad is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including:

• Dry Deciduous and Semi-Evergreen Forests: Home to a variety of plant species such as Anjani, Garambi, Bija, and Vatoili. Endemic species like wild jackfruit and Naguda can also be found.
• Grasslands (Maal): These grasslands, known locally as "Maal," support a variety of fauna including gawa (Indian bison) and sambar deer. Notable grasslands include Dhunyacha Maal, Chakacha Maal, and Bhandavcha Maal.
• Water Bodies: The sanctuary boasts 27 natural water sources (Gaans) that sustain the wildlife throughout the year, fostering aquatic biodiversity such as Berligi, beetles, various fish species, and water skaters, which indicate the purity of the water.

Flora and Fauna

• Flora: The sanctuary features a mix of dry deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. Key tree species include Anjani, Garambi, Bija, and Vatoili.
• Fauna: Key fauna includes Leopards, Sambar deer, Bats and nocturnal animals.

Ecotone Significance

Phansad's unique location, where the sea meets the forest and grasslands, creates a significant ecotone. This transition zone fosters high biodiversity, attracting a wide array of insects, butterflies, cicadas, beetles, and moths.

Conservation Efforts

The Forest Department actively protects the sanctuary through regular patrolling and monitoring. Preventative measures, such as creating fire lines during February and March, are implemented to prevent forest fires. Camera traps are installed to monitor wildlife, and water sources are regularly replenished.

Vulture Conservation

In an effort to conserve the dwindling vulture population, the Maharashtra Forest Department has established a "Vulture Restaurant" within the sanctuary, providing vultures with poison-free food.

Tourist Information

• Supegaon Tourism Complex: This is the entry point for tourists. An entry fee is charged here.
• Accommodation and Food: The Gram Paristhiti Vikas Samiti offers homestay options and homemade meals through self-help groups. Tent and White House accommodations are also available.

Challenges and Attractions

The Forest Department recognizes low tourism as a challenge. However, Phansad offers incredible natural beauty, enhanced by nearby attractions such as:

• Kashid Beach
• Murud-Janjira Fort
• Kundalika River

Visitor Information

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary offers excellent facilities for tourists. The sanctuary promises an unforgettable experience of untouched natural beauty.

The sanctuary welcomes you and is ready to provide an unforgettable experience!