Dudhwa National Park

Dudhwa National Park is a Terai tiger reserve in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, on the border with Nepal, about 10 km from Palia Kalan and roughly 230 km from Lucknow by road. The park protects a mosaic of sal forest, tall grassland and wetlands, and is known for its population of swamp deer, or barasingha, which gather in large herds in the grasslands. Tigers live in the reserve, and one-horned rhinoceros have been reintroduced and are seen in a fenced rhino area. Other wildlife includes leopards, elephants, hog deer, sloth bears and crocodiles, and the park lists more than 400 bird species, which makes it popular with birdwatchers, especially around its lakes and marshes. Visitors explore by safari in an open jeep with a guide, and the standard routes pass through Dudhwa, Kishanpur and Sathiana zones, with morning and afternoon slots. The park is open roughly from mid-November to mid-June, closing for the monsoon. A visit lasts from half a day to a full day, and many travellers stay for two or three nights to improve the chance of seeing tigers, which remain elusive. Fees combine entry, from about ₹1,000 for foreign visitors, plus a vehicle, guide and safari charges, with lower rates for Indian citizens. The best wildlife viewing is in March and April, when grasses are cut or burned and animals move to water, though temperatures climb quickly in May and June. Winter mornings are cold and foggy. Safari slots are limited, and visitors book ahead through the park authorities or an authorised operator. Lodging is available at forest rest houses and lodges near the park gate, with basic facilities.