Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 13kms from Siliguri and comes under the Darjeeling Wildlife division.
The place was declared as a sanctuary in the year 1959 so as to protect the highly endangered species of Royal Bengal Tiger and the Indian Bison. It is a perfect place for all those who want to enjoy the beauties of Mother Nature far away from the hustle & bustle of the city life.
There are various hides, glades and watchtowers being built near the streams & saltlicks so as provide a better view of the wild animals. The abandoned railway cabin within the core area has been transformed in to the watchtower. The height of the sanctuary varies from place to place and the highest point in the sanctuary is at Latpanchar. Latpanchar is at a height of 4000ft above the sea level and provides the perfect view-point for viewing various types of wildlife.
Flora- The sanctuary has a varied type of vegetation that differs from place to place due to the difference in altitudes. The vegetation mainly comprises of Riverain forests and mixed wet forests.
Fauna-The sanctuary is a home to various species of animals like Royal Bengal Tiger, sturdy Indian bison, gigantic elephants, lesser cat, leopard, clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, barking deer and many more.