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SANCTUARY SPOTLIGHT
The Sitamata Sanctuary
PHOTO: AP
SAFE ABODE The sanctuary is a haven for many kinds of deer apart form other animals
The Sitamata Sanctuary in Chittorgarh is located in a forest rich in bamboo, teak and dry deciduous vegetation, and abounds with legends. Many believe Valmiki's ashram, where Sita stayed during her exile, is located here.
Lending credence to this belief is the hillock near the Sitamata block which is a geographica phenomenon: the hillock looks like it has been halved.
The sanctuary, established in 1979, is spread over three mountain ranges— Aravalli, Vindhyachal and the 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 biodiversity of this sanctuary is said to be second only to Mount Abu in Rajasthan.
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 Guest House 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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