Which Tiger Reserve Was The First In Uttar Pradesh?

Uttar Pradesh is home to several protected areas, but Dudhwa Tiger Reserve holds the distinction of being the state’s first tiger reserve. Declared under Project Tiger in 1987–88, it was initially established to protect the endangered swamp deer ( barasingha ). Over time, it became a vital habitat for Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, leopards, and countless other species, making it a cornerstone of wildlife conservation in the Terai region.

Early History and Establishment

The Dudhwa region’s journey in conservation began in 1958 as a wildlife sanctuary, focusing on preserving barasingha. By 1977, it was upgraded to Dudhwa National Park , reflecting its growing ecological importance. With Project Tiger’s inception, Dudhwa became Uttar Pradesh’s first tiger reserve, attracting wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and photographers from across India.

Location and Geography

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located in Lakhimpur Kheri district, extending partially into Bahraich district, near the India–Nepal border. This international boundary makes Dudhwa an essential wildlife corridor, allowing free movement of tigers, elephants, and other animals between Indian and Nepalese forests.

The reserve covers approximately 2,201 square kilometres, including a core zone of 1,093 km² strictly protected for wildlife and a buffer zone of 1,107 km² where limited human activity is allowed. Its diverse landscape includes dense sal forests, grasslands, and wetlands, creating an ideal habitat for predators, herbivores, and migratory birds.

Read More: 10 Best Elephant Reserves In India For Wildlife Lovers

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity, supporting:

• Royal Bengal Tigers
• Barasingha (swamp deer)
• Indian one-horned rhinoceros
• Elephants and leopards
• Over 400 bird species

These features make it a hotspot for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and ecological studies.

Importance of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve

Dudhwa is more than the first tiger reserve of Uttar Pradesh—it is a critical ecological zone that balances predator-prey dynamics, preserves endangered species, and maintains wetlands and forests essential to the region’s environmental stability. Its cross-border location enhances conservation connectivity with Nepal, strengthening wildlife protection efforts in the Terai belt.