It was awarded the TX2 Global Award for doubling its tiger population in just four years.
The reserve features the Chuka Ecotourism site, which was established to promote sustainable tourism alongside local communities.
It is geographically positioned at the foothills of the Himalayas, influencing its unique microclimate.
The park contains the Mahof range, known for its high density of prey species which supports the tiger population.
It was formally notified as a tiger reserve in 2014, making it one of the newer tiger reserves in India.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, bordering Nepal, and is part of the Indo-Gangetic plains ecosystem. The reserve is uniquely characterized by its mosaic of high-canopy sal forests, tall grasslands, and swampy marshes known as jheels. It serves as a vital corridor for tiger movement between the Suhelwa and Dudhwa forest divisions. The reserve encompasses three major river systems: the Sharda, Chuka, and Mala. It is home to diverse fauna including leopards, swamp deer, sloth bears, and over 300 bird species. The reserve's management focuses on the coexistence of wildlife and local Tharu tribal communities. It covers a core area of over 600 square kilometers within the Terai Arc Landscape. The vegetation transition from dry deciduous to semi-evergreen creates specific niches for endangered species like the Bengal florican.
The watchtower at the Chuka Ecotourism complex overlooking the Sharda River reservoir.
Book your safari permits well in advance via the official forest department portal as entry is restricted to specific zones.
Carry high-quality binoculars and a telephoto lens, as tiger sightings are highly dependent on camouflage and luck.
Hire a registered forest guide to improve chances of spotting wildlife and to ensure adherence to safety regulations.
Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing or using heavy perfumes, as these can alert wildlife to your presence and decrease sighting opportunities.
The reserve is closed annually during the monsoon season, typically from mid-June to mid-November.
Maintain absolute silence during safaris, do not litter, do not feed animals, and always remain inside the vehicle.
