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SANCTUARY SPOTLIGHT

The Sitamata Sanctuary

The sanctuary in Chittoregarh, is located in a forest rich in bamboo, teak and dry deciduous vegetation, and abounds with legends. Many believe Sage Valmiki's ashram, where Sita stayed during her exile, is located here. Adding credence to that belief is a hillock near the Sitamata block that looks like it has been halved.

The Sitamata sanctuary, established in 1979, is spread over three mountain ranges— Aravalli, Vindhyachal and Malwa Plateau — and two districts, Udaipur and Chittorgarh. Five rivers — Jakham, Karmoai, Tankia, Bhudo and Sitamata — flow through it.

A huge dam has been constructed over the Jakham for irrigation purposes. The bio-diversity of this sanctuary is said to be second only to Mount Abu in the State.

Area

Approximately 422 sq.km.

Animals found

The sanctuary is a haven for a variety of deer, including the spotted deer, four-horned antelope, panther, flying squirrel, pangolin, wild boar, pangolin, hyena, jackal, fox, jungle cat, caracal, porcupine and Nilgai.

Its most striking resident, however, is the flying squirrel, which is sighted through the year. It glides from one tree to another after sunset. Regular visitors recommend a visit to the Arampura Forest guesthouse during autumn to take in the glorious sight of this squirrel darting across the leafless branches.

Flora

The forest is rich with salar, godal, tendu and amla, among others.

When to visit

October to June

How to go

The sanctuary is about 110 km from Udaipur and 120 km from Chittorgarh.

Nearest railhead: Udaipur/Chittorgarh

Nearest airport: Udaipur

Accommodation

The Forest Department's guest house. In case of group bookings, tents can be put up. Food can also be arranged on payment.

Contact

The DFO Wildlife, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan - 312001. Call 01472-244915 or 094141-46915 or visit http://www.rajasthantourism.gov.in/

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