The short answer
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve: what visitors should know first
Consider it as an add-on if you are driving between Bareilly and Dudhwa. Treat it as a separate stay, check season and booking details first, and do not expect to fit it into a single Dudhwa day.
History and context
The story behind Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
Pilibhit was a timber-producing reserve forest before being notified as a tiger reserve on 9 June 2014.
Useful facts
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve facts at a glance
- Location
- Pilibhit district, Terai Arc Landscape
- Experience type
- Seated vehicle safari
- Known for
- Tigers, sarus crane, gharial, sal forest
- Area
- 730.24 sq km, core 602.79 sq km
- Notified
- 9 June 2014, India's 46th tiger reserve
Why it matters
Why Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is worth your time
Pilibhit was notified as a tiger reserve on 9 June 2014, the 46th in India. It covers 730.24 sq km, of which 602.79 sq km is core. It lies in the Terai Arc Landscape, along the Indian-Nepal border and the Sharda river, and Wikipedia cites at least 65 tigers there.
It matters as part of the connected landscape that includes Dudhwa, and because it protects a corridor for tigers, elephants and other species. The Sharda Sagar dam forms part of its boundary, so the reserve combines forest, grass and water in a way similar to its neighbour.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Sal forest and Sharda river
The reserve combines forest, grass and the river and reservoir on its boundary.
- 02
Birds
About 450 species, including the sarus crane, are listed.
- 03
A newer reserve
Notified in 2014, it is a recent addition to India's tiger reserve network.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Pilibhit works as a second reserve in a longer Terai trip, particularly if you are coming from Bareilly. Confirm the zone, gate and booking arrangements in advance, because they differ from those of Dudhwa. The route between the two reserves is a long road drive, so give it a day of its own rather than squeezing it between safaris.
The reserve covers about 730 sq km, with sal forest and grassland by the Sharda river. Wikipedia lists tigers, five deer species, leopards, elephants, sloth bears and nilgai, and about 450 bird species including the sarus crane. Reptiles include the gharial and marsh crocodile.
As with other reserves in the region, sightings depend on luck and season. Keep your expectations flexible and spend time on the habitat and birds. If your time is limited, a deeper stay in Dudhwa will usually be more rewarding than a hurried second reserve.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Book permits and check the gate and zone in advance
- Allow a full day for the drive between reserves
- Check season dates, which may differ from Dudhwa
- Carry water and snacks
- Dress warmly for winter mornings
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Pilibhit district, Terai, along the Nepal border
- Time needed
- One to two safaris; overnight if combining
- Best time
- Cooler months; confirm season and gate details with the reserve
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Safaris are seated, but access roads and gate facilities can be basic. Plan on early starts and cold mornings in winter.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is by permit through the forest authorities. Check the current booking arrangements and seasonal dates before travelling.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Safaris are seated, but access roads and gate facilities can be basic. Plan on early starts and cold mornings in winter.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Pilibhit part of Dudhwa?
No. It is a separate tiger reserve in Pilibhit district, notified in 2014, in the same Terai landscape.
Can I combine it with Dudhwa?
Yes, on a longer itinerary, but give the drive a day of its own.
What can I see there?
Tigers, deer, birds including the sarus crane, and reptiles such as the gharial.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
