Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, near the border with Nepal. It is a popular destination for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts who want to explore the Terai region's rich biodiversity.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Katarniaghat, covering train, bus, and car travel options. You will also find practical travel tips, a step-by-step plan, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Major Cities to Katarniaghat – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a common and affordable way to reach the nearest railway stations to Katarniaghat. It suits travelers who prefer comfort and want to avoid road traffic.

• The closest railway station to Katarniaghat is Bahraich Railway Station, about 50 km away, connected by regular trains from Lucknow and Gorakhpur. Trains take around 3 to 5 hours depending on the route.

• From Bahraich station, you can hire a taxi or take local buses to reach Katarniaghat Sanctuary. Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are also available for the last leg of the journey.

• Train fares from Lucknow to Bahraich typically range from ₹100 to ₹300 for sleeper and second-class seats, making it an economical option for most travelers.

• During monsoon season, some trains may face delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so check IRCTC updates before booking your tickets.

• Trains are usually less crowded on weekdays; weekends and festival seasons see higher passenger volumes, so book tickets early to avoid last-minute hassles.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and those who want direct road access to Katarniaghat. State-run and private buses operate on this route frequently.

• Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) runs regular buses from Lucknow and Bahraich bus stands to Katarniaghat area, covering around 150 km in 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

• Private buses and shared taxis also operate from Bahraich to Katarniaghat, offering flexible timings but varying comfort levels and fares between ₹150 and ₹400.

• Bus routes mostly follow NH927 and SH26, passing through towns like Nanpara and Payagpur, with several rest stops offering local snacks and tea.

• During the monsoon, road conditions can worsen, causing delays, so plan extra travel time and carry water and snacks.

• Evening buses are less frequent; it is advisable to travel during daylight for safety and easier navigation in rural areas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Katarniaghat offers flexibility and the chance to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. It is suitable for travelers comfortable with Indian road conditions.

• The route from Lucknow to Katarniaghat is approximately 150 km via NH27 and NH927, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Major toll plazas on this route include the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway toll and the Bahraich bypass toll; keep some cash handy for toll payments.

• Rest stops with basic amenities and dhabas are available along the highway, especially near towns like Nanpara, where you can enjoy local cuisine.

• During monsoon, some stretches may have potholes or waterlogging; drive cautiously and avoid night driving in rural areas due to limited street lighting.

• Car rentals with drivers are widely available in Lucknow and Bahraich; app-based services like Ola and Uber operate mainly in cities but not in remote areas near Katarniaghat.

Flight

There is no airport near Katarniaghat, so flying is not a direct option. The nearest airport is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow.

• From Lucknow Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bahraich or directly towards Katarniaghat; the road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available at Lucknow Airport, but fares to Katarniaghat can be high due to distance and limited availability.

• Booking a taxi in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals, to avoid last-minute price surges.

• Flight schedules to Lucknow are frequent from major Indian cities, making it a convenient entry point for travelers coming from afar.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Katarniaghat to make the journey smooth and stress-free.

• Book your train or bus tickets online via IRCTC or UPSRTC websites at least a week in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Arrive at your departure station or bus stand early, at least 30 minutes before departure, to navigate crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• If traveling by train, confirm your arrival at Bahraich station and pre-arrange a taxi or shared jeep to Katarniaghat to avoid waiting long for local transport.

• Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a power bank for your devices, as amenities near Katarniaghat are limited and mobile signals can be weak in forest areas.

• On arrival, use prepaid taxi counters or trusted local drivers for onward travel to your accommodation or sanctuary entry points to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• Keep a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmations and identification documents handy for verification during travel and entry into protected areas.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in rural or forest areas to prevent stomach infections common in Indian countryside travel.

• Book your train or bus tickets early during festival seasons like Diwali or Holi, as these periods see heavy travel and limited availability.

• Use official prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs where available to avoid overcharging and ensure driver accountability.

• Pack light but include rain gear and insect repellent, especially if traveling during monsoon or visiting forested areas around Katarniaghat.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, as remote areas may have limited police presence.

• Local food options near Katarniaghat are basic; carry some dry snacks if you have dietary restrictions or prefer familiar tastes.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Katarniaghat is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are easier. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip during dry months ensures safer roads and comfortable journeys.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of July to September due to heavy rains causing roadblocks and slippery conditions.

• Festival periods like Diwali and Eid see increased traffic on highways and crowded trains, so plan your travel dates accordingly.

• Early morning departures are ideal to avoid city traffic and reach Katarniaghat before dark, as forest roads have limited lighting.

• Winter fog in December and January can reduce visibility on highways, so drive carefully and allow extra travel time.

Arrival at Katarniaghat & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Katarniaghat, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-booked taxis or local jeeps are the best way to reach the sanctuary entrance. The area is rural with basic facilities.

Accommodation options are mostly eco-resorts or forest rest houses near the sanctuary. Local transport within the sanctuary is usually arranged by tour operators or forest officials. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are not available inside the sanctuary, so plan your last-mile travel accordingly.

Conclusion

Traveling to Katarniaghat is best done by train to Bahraich followed by a taxi or bus for the final stretch. This option balances cost, comfort, and convenience for most travelers. Self-driving is suitable if you prefer flexibility and are comfortable with Indian highways.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport in advance. With these tips, you can confidently explore Katarniaghat’s rich wildlife and natural beauty without travel hassles.