Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is a large protected forest in Tripura, northeastern India, near Belonia in South Tripura district. It is particularly known for its population of gaur (Indian bison), extensive grasslands, perennial streams and unusual diversity of primates.

The wider Trishna protected landscape covers about 195 km² and includes the 31.63-km² Bison National Park within its core. Forest, bamboo, wetlands and open grassland support western hoolock gibbons, Phayre's langurs, capped langurs, macaques, Bengal slow lorises, deer, wild boar and numerous resident and migratory birds.

The sanctuary lies close to the international frontier with Bangladesh and is one of the principal wildlife destinations of southern Tripura.

	WARNING: Large parts of Trishna are natural wildlife habitat rather than a zoo or fenced safari park. Gaur are powerful wild cattle and should never be approached on foot. Remain on authorized visitor routes and follow Forest Department instructions. The sanctuary also lies along the India–Bangladesh frontier; do not wander toward border fencing, patrol roads or restricted areas.

Trishna combines moist tropical forest with bamboo, open grassland, wetlands and numerous perennial streams.

This mixture of habitats makes it very different from the much smaller and more developed Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary near Agartala. Visitors to Trishna should expect a broader natural landscape where wildlife sightings are less predictable.

The sanctuary is especially associated with the gaur or Indian bison. Despite the common English name, gaur are not true bison; they are the world's largest living wild cattle.

Grasslands and waterholes are deliberately managed in parts of Trishna to provide suitable habitat for gaur and other herbivores.

The visitor attractions around Joychandpur and Silapathar include wildlife-viewing areas, a lake, watchtower, trails, the Butterfly Eco-Park and the tourism area marketed as the Eden of Bison.

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary was formally declared on 18 November 1988.

The original legal notification covered 194.708 km² of South Tripura and included forest, wetlands, grasslands and settlements within a landscape adjoining Bangladesh. A core area of approximately 50 km² was subsequently identified for stronger wildlife protection. Within that core, 31.63 km² was notified as Bison National Park in 2009, primarily to strengthen conservation of gaur and their habitat.

This creates some confusing modern area figures. Recent Tripura documents list:

• 163.08 km² — Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary
• 31.63 km² — Bison National Park

Together these correspond closely to the original 194.708-km² sanctuary landscape. A formal eco-sensitive zone extending up to 500 m around parts of Trishna was notified by the Government of India in 2019.

Trishna occupies low, gently undulating country rather than steep mountains.

Elevations are generally only about 50–80 m above sea level.

Habitats include:

• tropical semi-evergreen forest
• moist mixed deciduous forest
• sal-dominated forest
• bamboo thickets
• savannah and tall grassland
• marshes
• ponds
• perennial streams

Grassland is especially important for gaur.

The sanctuary contains several permanent and seasonal water bodies, and a large forest-fringed lake forms one of the principal visitor attractions.

Trishna lies unusually close to the international boundary. Bangladesh borders the protected landscape on several sides.

The gaur is Trishna's signature animal.

Wildlife research and government surveys have also recorded an unusually rich primate community.

Primates include:

• western hoolock gibbon
• Phayre's langur, also called the spectacled langur

• capped langur
• northern pig-tailed macaque
• rhesus macaque
• Bengal slow loris

The western hoolock gibbon is India's only native ape.

Other mammals include:

• barking deer
• wild boar
• jungle cat
• leopard cat
• civets
• crab-eating mongoose
• porcupine
• flying squirrel

Wild cats and other secretive mammals should not be expected during an ordinary visit.

The sanctuary is also important for birds. Wetlands attract seasonal waterbirds, while forest supports woodpeckers, kingfishers, bulbuls, mynas, raptors and many other species.

More than 400 plant species have been documented from the wider sanctuary landscape.

Bamboo is particularly conspicuous in some areas, while forest trees include sal and many other moist-deciduous and semi-evergreen species.

Butterflies are diverse. Scientific surveys have recorded dozens of species within Trishna, including several protected or threatened taxa.

Trishna has a humid tropical climate with very high rainfall. The most comfortable period for visitors is generally October through March. November–February brings the coolest conditions and is particularly suitable for:

• Birdwatching
• Walking
• Wildlife viewing
• Photography

The temperature and humidity rises from March onwards.

The monsoon brings heavy rainfall, with the wettest conditions generally during the summer. Forest roads and trails can become muddy, slippery or flooded. Rain also causes vegetation to become extremely dense, making wildlife more difficult to see.

Carry insect repellent throughout the year.

Belonia is the nearest substantial town and the most practical local base.

The sanctuary is approximately:

• 100–111 km from Agartala
• 60 km from Udaipur
• 57 km from Sonamura
• 19 km from Belonia

The variation in published Agartala distances reflects the different road approaches through Sonamura or Udaipur.

From Agartala, a hired car is the simplest option for a day trip, although the journey is long enough that an overnight stop in Belonia can make the visit much more relaxed.

Arrange the driver's waiting time and return journey before entering the sanctuary.

Bus services connect Agartala with Belonia and other towns in southern Tripura.

Services also operate through Sonamura and Udaipur.

Public transport is useful for reaching Belonia, but it is less convenient for exploring the sanctuary itself.

From Belonia, arrange:

• taxi
• auto-rickshaw where practical
• hired car
• locally organized vehicle

for the remaining journey.

Belonia railway station is a practical rail access point approximately 19 km from the sanctuary.

Local buses, auto-rickshaws and taxis can be arranged from Belonia.

Some government visitor information also identifies Garjee as a nearby railhead for parts of the Trishna area, so the most convenient station may depend on the intended entrance and itinerary.

Agartala has the widest range of longer-distance railway services.

The nearest major airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (IXA ^IATA) at Agartala. The airport is roughly 120 km by road from the sanctuary depending on the route.

Taxis and rental vehicles can be arranged from the airport or from central Agartala.

No Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required simply to visit Tripura or Trishna.

As of Sep 2026, the visitor hours are Wednesday–Monday 9AM–5PM, closed Tuesday. The sanctuary may close unexpectedly because of:

• wildlife management
• forest fires
• severe weather
• maintenance
• official restrictions

The entrance tariff is not consistently published by official sources online. Confirm the admission, vehicle, boating and camera charges at the entrance rather than relying on older visitor reports.

Separate fees may apply to recreational facilities.

Commercial photography, filming, research and activities away from public visitor areas require permission.

Because Bison National Park is a protected core area, access beyond ordinary tourism routes may be restricted.

The sanctuary is much too large to explore entirely on foot. A combination of vehicle travel and walking is most practical.

Forest roads connect visitor areas, grasslands, water bodies and watchpoints.

Jeep or other authorized vehicle excursions have been offered for wildlife viewing. Availability may depend on staffing, road conditions and season, so ask at the entrance rather than assuming a safari vehicle will always be waiting.

Walking paths are available around some visitor and eco-tourism zones.

Do not leave established routes in search of gaur or primates. During the monsoon, even short forest roads can become muddy and difficult.

Wildlife is generally most active:

• early in the morning
• during the later afternoon

but public opening hours may limit how early visitors can enter.

• Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, ☏ +91 3823 267340, wlwtrishna@yahoo.com. Large wildlife sanctuary of forests, grasslands, wetlands and perennial streams, particularly known for gaur and six species of primate. Visitor facilities include wildlife-viewing areas, forest trails, water bodies and associated eco-tourism attractions. (updated Sep 2026)

• Bison National Park. A 31.63-km² national park within the core of the Trishna protected landscape. It was created primarily to strengthen protection of gaur and their grassland and forest habitat. Tourist access may be more controlled than in the general visitor areas.

• Eden of Bison. A wildlife-viewing and eco-tourism area near Silapathar/Rajnagar associated especially with Trishna's gaur. Sightings are never guaranteed; these are free-ranging wild animals rather than livestock kept for display.

• Butterfly Eco-Park, Joychandpur, Rajnagar, South Tripura (Near Eden of Bison in the Trishna wildlife landscape.). Wed–Mon 9AM–5PM; closed Tue. A landscaped butterfly garden with nectar plants and habitat intended to attract numerous local butterfly species. It provides an easier place to observe butterflies than searching throughout the much larger forest sanctuary. (updated Sep 2026)

• Trishna lake and wetlands. Large forest-fringed water bodies attract birds and create some of the sanctuary's most peaceful scenery.

• Watchtower. A forest observation tower provides elevated views across grassland and surrounding habitat when open. Availability can depend on staffing and maintenance.

• Gaur grasslands. Managed tall-grass areas and waterholes provide important feeding habitat for gaur. Early and late in the day generally offer the best chance of seeing animals.

• Primate habitat. Listen especially for hoolock gibbons in mature forest. Their far-carrying calls are often noticed before the animals themselves.

• Perennial streams. Small streams and wet forest corridors help maintain Trishna's wildlife even during the drier months.

• Look for gaur. Trishna is the principal protected area in Tripura associated with sizeable wild gaur populations. Binoculars are useful.

• Go birdwatching. Winter is particularly rewarding because resident forest birds are joined by migratory waterbirds.

• Listen for hoolock gibbons. Early morning provides the best opportunity to hear their loud territorial songs.

• Walk the forest trails. Use authorized paths and follow any ranger instructions.

• Visit the Butterfly Eco-Park. This is easily combined with the main sanctuary visitor area.

• Use the watchtower. When open, it provides a broad view over habitat that is difficult to appreciate from forest level.

• Go boating. Boating has traditionally operated on the large forest lake. Confirm current availability and charges when entering.

• Take a guided or authorized vehicle excursion. Vehicle wildlife viewing can reach grasslands and waterholes farther from the principal pedestrian areas.

• Photograph the landscape. Grassland, water, bamboo and dense forest provide considerably more variety than many visitors expect from southern Tripura.

Do not pressure drivers or guides to approach gaur closely for photographs.

There are few substantial shopping facilities within Trishna itself.

The main nearby shopping centre is Belonia Sub-Divisional Market.

Buy before entering:

• drinking water
• snacks
• insect repellent
• sunscreen
• basic medicines
• batteries
• binocular supplies

Small stalls may operate at visitor areas, but their opening hours and stock should not be relied upon.

Belonia has:

• markets
• pharmacies
• ATMs
• general shops
• food supplies

Do not buy wildlife products, feathers, captured animals or forest plants.

Food options inside the sanctuary are limited.

The Forest Rest House may be able to arrange meals for staying or prearranged guests, but visitors should confirm this beforehand.

For a day visit, bring:

• snacks
• packed lunch
• drinking water

Belonia has the nearest dependable selection of restaurants and local eateries.

Typical food in southern Tripura includes Bengali and Tripuri dishes based on:

• rice
• fish
• vegetables
• lentils
• chicken
• pork in some Tripuri communities

Do not leave food scraps in the forest.

Never feed monkeys, gaur, deer or birds.

Bring sufficient drinking water for the full visit.

Do not drink untreated water from lakes, streams, ponds, or forest waterholes

Bottled water may be available at some visitor facilities but should not be assumed.

Tea and soft drinks are easier to find in Belonia.

Avoid alcohol while visiting the sanctuary.

Most visitors either stay in Agartala, Udaipur or Belonia.

Staying near Trishna is useful for visitors primarily interested in wildlife or early-morning birding.

• Trishna Forest Rest House, Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary (within the protected-area complex), ☏ +91 3823 267340, wlwtrishna@yahoo.com. Basic Forest Department accommodation inside the Trishna area. Advance booking is essential, and visitors should confirm meals, electricity and check-in arrangements before travelling. (updated Sep 2026)
• Muhuri Tourist Lodge, Belonia (in the principal town about 19 km from Trishna.), ☏ +91 3823 222032. Tripura Tourism accommodation in Belonia and a practical base for travellers who prefer town facilities to staying inside the forest. Confirm present room availability before arrival. (updated Sep 2026)

• Pilak Tourist Lodge, Jolaibari (near the Pilak archaeological area), ☏ +91 98626 42130. Tourist accommodation at Jolaibari that can be useful when combining Trishna with the nearby archaeological remains at Pilak. (updated Sep 2026)

Agartala has by far the widest choice of accommodation but is a long drive away for a same-day wildlife visit.

Independent camping is not a normal visitor activity within Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary or Bison National Park.

Do not pitch a tent in forest or grassland without explicit Forest Department permission.

The sanctuary is a protected wildlife area rather than unrestricted backcountry. Walking away from designated routes can disturb wildlife, create risk from gaur and bring visitors toward restricted border areas. Remain on authorized trails.

Mobile reception varies considerably within the sanctuary. Signal is generally more reliable around Belonia, Rajnagar, larger villages, and main access roads than deep inside the forest. Public Wi-Fi should not be expected.

Download maps and save important contact details before entering.

Wildlife Warden, Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary

• Office: +91 3823 267340
• Email: wlwtrishna@yahoo.com

The Wildlife Warden's office can provide current information about:

• opening conditions
• Forest Rest House accommodation
• access restrictions
• wildlife tourism arrangements

For emergencies in India:

• 112 — national emergency number
• 100 — police
• 108 — ambulance where operational

The nearest substantial medical and commercial services are in Belonia.

Gaur deserve particular respect. An adult gaur is extremely large and powerful. Never approach one on foot, block its path or attempt to move closer for a photograph.

If viewing wildlife from a vehicle, allow animals to leave the road in their own time.

Do not feed primates. Macaques can become aggressive around food.

Other forest hazards include:

• snakes
• leeches during wet weather
• mosquitoes
• ticks
• slippery trails
• falling branches during storms

Wear closed shoes for forest walks and use insect repellent.

During the monsoon, streams and low forest roads can rise rapidly after heavy rain.

Do not drive through floodwater simply because a road was passable earlier.

The sanctuary lies immediately beside the India–Bangladesh international frontier.

Do not:

• climb or approach border fencing
• photograph military or border-security installations
• enter patrol tracks marked as restricted
• attempt to cross a stream or forest track into Bangladesh

Follow Forest Department and Border Security Force instructions wherever applicable.

Photography of ordinary wildlife and scenery is generally unproblematic, but be especially discreet around frontier infrastructure.

Forest fires can occur during unusually dry periods. Follow staff instructions if areas are temporarily closed.

Carry:

• sufficient water
• charged telephone
• offline navigation
• basic first aid
• rain protection during the wet season

Leave the forest before closing time unless staying in authorized accommodation.

• Belonia — The nearest major town, about 19 km away, with rail connections, markets, restaurants, banks and accommodation.

• Pilak — Important archaeological site near Jolaibari containing Buddhist and Hindu sculptures and remains dating largely from around the 8th–12th centuries.

• Udaipur — Historic former royal capital with the Tripura Sundari Temple, lakes and several temples.

• Bharat-Bangla Maitree Udyan — Memorial park at Chottakhola commemorating Indian soldiers and Bangladeshi freedom fighters associated with the 1971 Liberation War.

• Butterfly Eco-Park — Easily combined with Trishna and located close to the Eden of Bison area near Joychandpur.

• Neermahal — Former royal water palace in Rudrasagar Lake near Melaghar.

• Sipahijala Wildlife Sanctuary — Smaller and much more developed wildlife, zoo and botanical complex closer to Agartala.

• Agartala — Tripura's capital, principal airport and main transport centre.

• Sabroom — Southern Tripura town near the Bangladesh frontier and the Maitri Setu across the Feni River.