Camp Wild Boar
When I think about majestic forts and palaces, Rajasthan, the largest state of India is the first one to attract me. The architectural grandeur and the surrounding picturesque beauty adds to its rich heritage.
Purely, as a wildlife photographer, what truly mesmerises me is the indigenous wildlife that fascinates tourists from different parts of the world. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is one such destination which can be called a nature admirer’s paradise. The sanctuary is situated near Bassi village, 25 km from the legendary city of Chittorgarh. Found in 1988, the sanctuary was declared as a natural wildlife reserve by the Government of India.
Bassi Sanctuary Chittorgarh covers an area of approximately 152 square kilometres. It lies on the western border of the Vindhyachal Mountain Ranges. Several rivers that flow through it nourishes the surrounding flora and fauna.
The vegetation of the wildlife reserve is mostly dry deciduous dotted with trees such as Dhok, Butea, Khair, and Churel. A variety of flowering plants and medicinal herbs are also found here. Wetlands and groves of mixed woodlands form diverse ecosystems that encompass the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Likewise, a variety of animal species inhabit the sanctuary. These include Chinkara, Chital (Spotted Deer), Jackal, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Blue Bull, Hyena, Civet among many more. Bird lovers can spot colourful species of birds like Peacocks, Eagles, Hawks, Cuckoo, Whistling Duck, Saras Cranes, Peafowls, Storks etc.
Another major tourist attraction near the Bassi Sanctuary Chittorgarh is the Bassi and Orai Dams. Wild animals frequently visit the dam reservoirs to drink water which makes the place more exciting for the tourists. Although camping is not allowed here, there are no restrictions on photography. And so, the wildlife sanctuary is a famous haven for wildlife photographers from all over the world.
How To Go To Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary?
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is 140 km away from Udaipur, Rajasthan. Any part of the Chittorgarh district takes us straight to the destination - by road. We can reach the place easily via bus or taxi. There are two highways that lead to the Bassi Sanctuary. One is NH 27 via Ghatyavali Road that takes about 50 minutes. The second option is NH 48 that takes about one hour. The sanctuary is just 5 kilometres from Bassi Fort.
Our expedition begins the moment we reach the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary. The best way to explore the jungles is the jeep safari whose arrangements are all handled by the forest officials. Each safari tour is accompanied by a seasoned wildlife guide who narrates the stories of the jungle. Majority of the tourists we see here are nature lovers, wildlife conservationists and enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Although the sanctuary is open for tourists all year round, the months of October and November are always crowded. That’s when the beauty of the Chittorgarh Sanctuary flourishes twofold.
Before we start the journey, all are informed to read and follow the safari guidelines for safety reasons. Strolling around unaccompanied on the trails traversed by carnivorous animals is strictly prohibited.
Explore the Tour
Camp Highlights
- Stay amidst nature in a wildlife camp set up and experience sleeping inside hiking tents.
- Venture through the nature trails to explore the old artistic tools used for hunting tigers by the Mewar rulers. The leader accompanies us on every journey that we take through the sanctuary while giving us the lessons of the survival in the wilderness.
- Ride on a jeep safari through the jungles of Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary. Listen to the tales of the wild as you discover the flora and fauna of the nature reserve.
- Set off for hiking and trekking with nature trail leaders who guide you through tricky trails. As you embark on the journey for the first time you learn the native ways of life.
- Enjoy a campfire, live barbeque and fresh food. Go back into the aboriginal times and dine under the sky.