The short answer
Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Go after the monsoon, July to October, when the Rajdari and Devdari falls are running, or in cooler winter weather. Take a taxi for the day, start early, and confirm the gate hours and charges, because published figures differ.
History and context
The story behind Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary was established in May 1957 on the Naugarh and Vijaigarh hillocks in Chandauli district. Asiatic lions were brought here in 1958 and numbered eleven by 1969, but they were later found missing and have not been successfully reintroduced.
The area was previously a hunting ground of the rulers of Varanasi.
Useful facts
Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Chandauli district, Kaimur hills, Uttar Pradesh
- Experience type
- Waterfalls, forest drive, birdwatching
- Known for
- Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls
- Established
- 1957
- Distance
- About 65-70 km from Varanasi
- Best season
- July to February; falls strongest July-October
Why it matters
Why Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is worth your time
Chandra Prabha is the nearest forest-and-waterfall outing to Varanasi, which makes it an easy contrast to the ghats and temples. The sanctuary was established in 1957 on land that was once a hunting ground of Varanasi's rulers, and it covers roughly 78 square kilometres of hill forest on the north slope of the Kaimur range.
It is known for its waterfalls and for more than 150 bird species, plus leopards, sambar, chital, nilgai and other animals in the forest. Asiatic lions were introduced here in 1958 but are no longer present, so do not expect them. The place rewards people who want a green day in the monsoon rather than a wildlife safari.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Rajdari and Devdari falls
Two waterfalls on the Kaimur slopes are the reason most people come, at their best in and after the monsoon.
- 02
Birdlife and forest
More than 150 bird species are listed, and the forest holds deer, nilgai and other animals.
- 03
A day out of the city
It is a green, cooler break from the crowded ghats and a manageable day trip by taxi.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Hire a taxi for the day from Varanasi and set out early; the sanctuary is about two hours away by road. Opening is commonly given as 6 am with closing at 5 pm, so plan to leave the falls well before the afternoon. Confirm the rates at the entry gate, because published figures are not consistent.
The main draws are the Rajdari and Devdari waterfalls, which are at their best during and just after the monsoon. Walk the short approaches slowly, as the rock is slippery when wet, and keep children close to the water's edge. The surrounding forest is home to deer, nilgai and many birds, but wildlife sightings from the roadside and falls are modest rather than reliable.
Bring water and food, as shops are few. A visit in winter is easier on the legs but the waterfalls may be thin. Return before dusk, since forest roads are not well lit.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Hire a taxi for the day and leave early
- Confirm gate hours and charges, which sources report differently
- Wear shoes with grip; rock is slippery after rain
- Carry water and food
- Plan to leave the sanctuary before dusk
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Chandauli district, on the Kaimur hills, about 65 to 70 km from Varanasi by road
- Time needed
- A full day with the drive of about two hours each way
- Best time
- July to February; the falls are fullest from July to October, while April to June is very hot
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The drive is long and the falls involve short walks on uneven ground that gets slippery in the monsoon. There is limited shade and few facilities, so older visitors should keep to the nearest viewpoints and bring water.
- Tickets and access
- Fees and hours are reported differently by different sources; some list a modest ticket for Indians and a higher one for foreigners, plus vehicle charges. Check the current rates and times at the gate, and avoid arriving late in the day.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The drive is long and the falls involve short walks on uneven ground that gets slippery in the monsoon. There is limited shade and few facilities, so older visitors should keep to the nearest viewpoints and bring water.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Chandra Prabha from Varanasi?
About 65 to 70 km by road, roughly two hours by taxi.
When are the waterfalls best?
July to October, during and after the monsoon. Falls are thinner in winter and spring.
Can I see lions here?
No. Asiatic lions were introduced in 1958 but later disappeared, and there is no current lion safari.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
