The sanctuary shares its northern boundary with the Simbalbara National Park in Himachal Pradesh.
It is one of the few places in Haryana that serves as a natural habitat for free-ranging elephant herds.
The sanctuary was declared a national park for a portion of its area in 2003 to increase protection for native flora and fauna.
The forest cover is primarily dominated by Sal trees, which are indigenous to this part of the Shivalik foothills.
The Yamuna River flows along the eastern border of the sanctuary, providing a crucial water source for local wildlife.
It is part of a larger, interconnected forest landscape that facilitates migratory movement for mega-fauna like elephants.
Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area located in the Yamuna Nagar district of Haryana, India, bordering the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The sanctuary acts as a critical corridor for wildlife movement between the Rajaji National Park and the forests of the Shivalik range. Its ecosystem consists of dry deciduous forests characterized by Sal, Khair, and Shisham trees. The sanctuary is known for its population of leopards, elephants, and barking deer. It contains a historical monument known as the Kalesar Mahadev Temple located within the core forest area. The park spans approximately 11,570 hectares of undulating terrain. It serves as an extension of the Shivalik range and is situated along the banks of the Yamuna River. Its location at the junction of three states contributes to high biological diversity and bird species variation.
The watchtower overlooking the watering holes provides the best vantage point for spotting and photographing wildlife.
Hire a registered forest guide to increase chances of wildlife sightings and navigate the restricted trails safely.
Carry binoculars and a high-zoom camera, as animals are often spotted at a distance within the dense forest.
Maintain strict silence and avoid sudden movements, as the wildlife in this sanctuary is generally shy and sensitive to human presence.
Do not attempt to walk in the forest area without a designated guide or forest department permission, as it is a protected zone with predatory animals.
The sanctuary is typically closed during the monsoon season (July to September) due to trail instability and wildlife breeding safety protocols.
Avoid bright-colored clothing, do not litter, remain inside the designated vehicle or trekking path at all times, and do not feed the animals.
