by Located about 10 km from Jamshedpur in Jharkhand, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important elephant habitats in eastern India. Established in 1975, the sanctuary spreads across approximately 193–195 sq. km. of forest area covering parts of East Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan districts. It runs parallel to NH-18 and rises up to 915 meters above sea level in the scenic Dalma Hills.
The sanctuary is nearly 15 km from Jamshedpur and around 100 km from Ranchi, making it easily accessible for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
Forest & Ecology
Dalma forests fall under the categories of Dry Peninsular Sal and Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest. The region is dominated by Sal trees along with bamboo and other native vegetation. Most parts of the forest shed leaves during summer and regain lush greenery with the onset of monsoon.
Dalma is especially famous for its significant population of Indian elephants and serves as a vital migratory corridor connecting adjoining forest divisions.
Historical & Cultural Significance
The sanctuary is named after “Dalma Mai,” a local tribal goddess deeply respected by surrounding communities. According to local belief, Dalma Mai entered a sacred cave on the hilltop and never returned. Every year in the month of Asarh, a religious gathering is organized at Dalma Hill where devotees pay homage to the goddess.
Before being declared a protected area, some upper slopes experienced shifting cultivation, while foothills had scattered settlements. After notification, systematic forest protection, boundary demarcation, and habitat management significantly strengthened conservation efforts.
Flora & Fauna
Here is the complete and properly organized list of wildlife and vegetation found in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary:
Animals
Dalma is especially famous for its large population of Indian Elephants, which use the sanctuary as an important migratory corridor. Other commonly found mammals include:
- Indian Elephant
- Indian Giant Squirrel
- Sloth Bear
- Barking Deer
- Mouse Deer
- Wild Boar
- Porcupine
- Pangolin
- Mongooses
The sanctuary provides a natural habitat of dry deciduous forest ideal for these species.
Birds
Dalma is also a paradise for bird watchers. Some of the commonly spotted bird species include:
- Falcons
- Golden Oriole
- Indian Tree Pie
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Grey Hornbill
- Indian Peafowl
- Kingfishers (various species)
- Herons
- Egrets
- Pigeons
- Racket-tailed Drongo
- Magpie Robin
- Red-whiskered Bulbul
- White-browed Bulbul
- Red-vented Bulbul
- Brahminy Myna
- Common Myna
- Asian Koel
The rich biodiversity makes Dalma an ideal destination for bird photography and nature observation.
Trees & Vegetation
The sanctuary mainly consists of Dry Peninsular Sal and mixed deciduous forests. Important trees and plants found here include:
- Sal
- Bamboo
- Mahua
- Mango
- Guava
- Lemon
- Jamun
- Sheesham
- Neem
- Baabul
- Arjuna
- Karanj
- Kanail
- Kadam
- Timber species and other native forest trees
These trees not only support wildlife but also play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Administrative History
| Year | Milestone | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 | Sanctuary Notification | Officially notified to protect elephant corridors and forested hills around Jamshedpur. |
| 1980 | Boundary Demarcation | Forest boundaries surveyed and strengthened to regulate human activities. |
| 1990 | Strengthened Protection | Anti-poaching, wildlife monitoring, and habitat management enhanced. |
| 2001 | Eco-Sensitive Management | Community participation and eco-development committees introduced. |
| 2010 | Tourism Streamlining | Visitor routes, watchtowers, and interpretation centres developed. |
| 2015 | Elephant Corridor Conservation | Focus on protecting migratory elephant corridors. |
| 2020 | Digital Surveillance | Camera traps, GPS monitoring, and digital systems installed. |
| 2024 | Digital Era | Online booking system introduced for safari and visitor facilities. |
Entry Fees & Visitor Facilities
Canopy Walk (10% Discount Applied)
- Adult: ₹90.00
- Children / Student (Sub-Adult): ₹45.00
Experience breathtaking views of forest landscapes from elevated walkways through the canopy.
Daily Guide Assistance
- Per Ticket: ₹300.00
Approved guides assist visitors with interpretation, safety, and wildlife awareness inside the sanctuary.
Nature Interpretation Centre
- Adult: ₹10.00
- Children: ₹5.00
Educational exhibits on biodiversity, elephants, and conservation initiatives.
Still Camera
- Per Ticket: ₹100.00
Permission for personal photography inside the premises.
Videography
- Per Ticket: ₹500.00
Allowed after security verification for carrying videography equipment.
Book Safari
Experience the thrill of exploring the forest landscapes and elephant corridors of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary through a regulated safari program designed for wildlife conservation and visitor safety.
Important Rules & Guidelines
Before booking your safari, all visitors must agree to the following rules:
- I/We will not enter any protected forest area with firearms, explosives, or alcohol.
- I/We will ensure that the vehicle driver does not enter prohibited roads, does not blow the horn, play loud music, or violate park regulations.
- All visitors must strictly follow the guidelines provided by the Forest Department.
- Photography is allowed only in designated areas.
- Littering inside the sanctuary is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in penalties or cancellation of the safari without refund.
Safari Price Breakdown
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Safari Charges (Online) | ₹600.00 |
| Offline Charges (Payable at Gate) | ₹2200.00 |
| Total Amount | ₹2800.00 |
It is recommended to book safari online for convenience, transparency, and smoother entry procedures.
Why Choose Dalma Safari?
- Explore scenic forest routes across Dalma Hills
- Chance to spot Indian Elephants and other wildlife
- Guided eco-tourism experience
- Safe and regulated forest entry
Visitors can book their safari and gate pass online through the official portal to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Dalma Wildlife Trek
Experience nature up close with the Dalma Wildlife Trek, a beginner-friendly trekking route designed for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Trek Details
- Distance: 3 KM
- Elevation: Approx. 1000 meters
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Terrain: Forest trails across scenic Dalma Hills
This trek offers panoramic hill views, fresh forest air, and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna along the route.
Trekking Ticket Price (Per Person)
| Category | Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Student | ₹2.00 |
| College | ₹50.00 |
| Senior Citizen | ₹50.00 |
| General | ₹50.00 |
Important Notes
- All trekkers must follow Forest Department guidelines.
- Littering is strictly prohibited.
- Trekking is allowed only during permitted hours.
- Entry may require prior booking or gate pass verification.
Dalma Wildlife Trek is perfect for beginners looking to explore Jharkhand’s natural beauty in a safe and eco-friendly environment.
Online Booking
Visitors can conveniently Book Your Gate Pass online through the official portal: https://www.dalmawildlife.com/login
Online booking ensures transparency, easy access, and better visitor management.
Why Visit Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?
Dalma stands as a proud symbol of Jharkhand’s ecological heritage. Its hills echo with elephant movements, its forests preserve tribal traditions, and its landscapes offer a perfect blend of spirituality, biodiversity, and eco-tourism.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, nature lover, or spiritual traveler, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary offers an unforgettable forest experience.
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