Take a tour of the first — and only — wildlife sanctuary for Indian wolves

They rarely hunt in large packs, and they almost never make the headlines—unless, of course, there’s conflict. Deforestation, loss of prey, and growing urbanisation have pushed them into closer contact with humans, often resulting in tragedy. Conservationists list the species as endangered, but in places like Mahuadanr, there’s still hope.

Unlike their more famous Himalayan cousins or the cinematic howlers from the West, the Indian grey wolf is smaller, leaner, and far more elusive (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

What it’s like to visit Mahuadanr

If you’re picturing plush safaris and Instagrammable lodges, think again. Mahuadanr is raw—this is wildlife tourism the way it was before luxury tents and curated forest experiences. The best time to visit is between October and June, especially during the breeding season from November to February, when wolves are more active.

There are a couple of Forest Rest Houses in Mahuadanr and Aksi where travellers can stay, but most people who come here also explore Netarhat, a misty hill station nearby, or visit the spectacular Lodh Falls, the tallest waterfall in Jharkhand. Betla National Park, another biodiversity hotspot, is also close by.

Interestingly, the sanctuary’s survival hasn’t just come from government protections. Local tribal communities—who live close to the land and hold deep reverence for nature—have quietly played a role in the wolves’ preservation.

According to a Down To Earth’s Nature’s Scientific Reports, traditional practices like not entering certain forest areas during denning season or revering specific trees like Sal have created safer habitats for wolves to breed. Recent ecological studies also suggest that wolves prefer to den in areas with steep slopes, thick shrubs, and—yes—Sal trees.

If you’re someone who loves the road less travelled—or just wants to witness a rare chapter of Indian wildlife history—Mahuadanr might be worth putting on your list.