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The buzzword these days amongst millennials is travel. Don’t be surprised by the growing number of travellers who want to travel beyond the usual office and back route. As we spend a good chunk of time honking, maneuvering and cursing through the urban traffic, the gypsy soul within us is always craving for a journey that nourishes, rejuvenates and becomes an endearing experience. After all, our jobs fill our pockets, but experience and adventure fill our souls.

But should the soul curry be served only to those who can afford it? Or are there still some choices for us commoners with meager leisure kitty that we managed to build by outsmarting our EMIs, household expenses, fuel hikes, medical bills, etc?

In the past decade, as a journalist and producer, I had the opportunity to travel far and wide across several nations. But I can assure you that nothing can match the diverse culture, customs, and cuisine of our country.  India is a philosopher’s gunny bag, where you can chance upon a rare gem every time you dive into it. One such rare gem that is there for the taking for both well-to-do and a commoner who wants to experience the thrill of wildlife is Katarniya Ghat wildlife sanctuary.

Situated on the banks of river Girwa, Katarniya Ghat is one of the most beautiful wildlife destinations in the country.

In the sanctuary, the day starts with scores of endangered birds waking you up with their chirping and calls, while the serene waters of Girwa become a mosaic of glittering pearls as the first rays of sun fall on it piercing through the early morning mist. Difficult to leave such a surreal morning scenery but wait till you hear a tiger’s call in the distance.

Nestled in the naturally lush district of Terai of Bahraich in the upper Gangetic plain of Uttar Pradesh, Katarniya Ghat is well-connected via rail and road with the major cities. The sanctuary is located at a distance of 205 km from Lucknow, 60 km from the Bahraich–Nanpara route, and about 7 km from the Nepal border. Government and private transporters operate buses from Lucknow to Katarniya Ghat with one side fare of Rs 600 – Rs 1,300.

The nearest major railway station is Dudhwa (4kms) and the railway station in the sanctuary are Kakraha, Murtiha, Nishangarah, and Bichhia, on the Gonda-Bahraich Branch railway line ( meter gauge) of NER. A train ride from Lucknow to Dudhwa will cost you between Rs 320 – Rs 400.

The tiger habitats of Dudhwa in India and Bardia in Nepal are provided with strategic connectivity by the forests of Katarniya Ghat.

Spread across an area of 400.09 sq. km with the characteristic complex of sal forests, tall grasslands, and inland streams of the Ghaghra river, it is a thriving habitat for both prey and predators.

It is a common sight to find swamp deers, barking deers, and nilgais munching on the lush grass just a few meters away, from the visitors who are having breakfast at the lodge while being mesmerised by the amazing sight.

Governed by the ecotourism initiative of the Uttar Pradesh government, the entry fee in the sanctuary is Rs 50 and the accommodation at Tiger Camp and Leopard Huts starts at Rs 1,800.

The largely untouched forest area is home to several endangered species including leopards, tigers, honey badgers, deers, elephants,  spot-billed pelicans, white Ibis’,  Indian Long-billed Vultures, etc.

The herpeto-fauna of Katarniya Ghat includes the extremely rare Burmese rock python, the yellow speckled wolf-snake, and the paradise flying snake. The cost of a safari ride to see these animals up close is Rs 2,000. But Katarniya Ghat’s story can’t be complete without mentioning its three most rare and special inhabitants—Dolphins, Crocodiles, and Ghadiyals.

As you take the popular riverboat ride facility at Katarniya Ghat, don’t forget to look off the boat. Through the crystal clear waters of the river, you might find dolphins, crocodiles and gharials swimming alongside the boat.

The pristine water of Girwa is home to a large number of rare and elusive freshwater dolphins. It is one of the very few places in the world where river dolphins can be seen in their natural habitat. These extremely shy creatures have become accustomed to boats and chances are you can get a glimpse from a close quarter.

Katarniya Ghat also boasts one of the highest numbers of Ghadiyal population in the country. This rare species was declared critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, a conducive environment and strict administrative supervision have led to a significant increase in its number in the sanctuary. The breeding center in the sanctuary allows visitors to understand the species and encourages them to take part in its conservation.

From my own experience, having several crocodiles swimming alongside your boat is enough to get your heart racing. On any given occasion you would find half-a-dozen crocodiles swimming, hunting, or frolicking in the river while several others sunbathing on the sandbanks. Watching these evolutionary masterpieces in their true wild self is indeed an endearing experience. So don’t forget your binoculars.

I believe that no journey is complete until one indulges in the local culture. The indigenous tribe of Tharu is the guardian of these forests since the time immemorable. The tribe maintains a fine balance between man & wildlife boundaries in the region. Their cornerstones of life are simple living and regard for nature. So, make an entry in your bucket list to spend some time with the village elders. I am sure they will regal you with their stories of wildlife adventures and who knows they might offer you their local cuisine, as a bonus.

In the words of Ibn Battuta “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” I hope, your travel to Katarniya Ghat leaves you with endearing experiences and stories to tell.

Remember, life is short and the world is wide. The more you travel, the more you will grow. To fulfill your traveling goals, save and invest. Start with little but make sure you do. For investment trends, tips, and options log on to www.money9.com