Sukla Phanta WildLife Reserve

This wildlife reserve is situated in the extreme south-west of Nepal. The name of the park is derived from the largest of grasslands known as Sukla Phanta. The park area is 155 sq kms and will be 305 sq kms after the completion of its extension. Sukla Phanta's grassland is one of the last remaining habitats for such threatened animals as the hispid hare and the pygmy hog. Besides these, Sukla Phanta is the stronghold for another endangered animal- the barasingha, or swamp deer.

Other wildlife of the park included are spotted deer seen in large numbers, hog deer, nilgai, wild dog, jackal, porcupine etc. The park and the adjoining forest is the territory of a small number of tigers. It is not uncommon to sight these tigers out on the prowl due to the open terrain. Wild elephants have also been sighted in the park.

A stop at the Rani Tal would be an exciting experience. This small lake attracts birds and animals alike. Herons, ducks, storks, kingfishers and egrets vie for food and swamp deer wallow at the edges. From a nearby machan, one can watch thousands of water fowl mingling on the lake surface while hundreds of swamp deer graze at the water-edge in the evening light. This experience is quite unique.

Other ways to view wildlife in the park is by driving in a land rover near the lake and river and on nature walks with trained trackers.