The Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve located in the Little Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, India. The sanctuary covers an area of approximately 4,953 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The sanctuary was established in 1972 to protect the last remaining population of the Indian wild ass, also known as the khur. The Indian wild ass is a highly endangered species that is native to the arid regions of India, Pakistan, and Iran. The sanctuary is now home to more than 4,000 Indian wild asses, making it one of the largest wildlife populations of the species in the world. Apart from the Indian wild ass, the sanctuary is home to a variety of other wildlife species such as the chinkara, desert fox, jackal, caracal, wolf, and many others. The sanctuary is also a paradise for bird lovers, as it is home to over 200 species of migratory and resident birds such as the Houbara bustard, desert wheatear, and Indian roller.
The sanctuary is open to visitors from October to May, as the summer months can get extremely hot and dry, making it difficult to explore the sanctuary. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between December and March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are at their best. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on a guided jeep safari, which takes them through the rugged terrain and salt pans of the Little Rann of Kutch. The safari offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the Indian wild ass in its natural habitat and to see the diverse range of wildlife and bird species that call the sanctuary home.