DNH Wildlife Sanctuary (Satmaliya Deer park)

Satmalia Deer Park is located inside DNH wildlife sanctuary on the Khanvel-Silvassa road near Dapada, in the Dadra and Nagar Haveli district. It is home to a diverse collection of deer and antelope species including blackbuck, chital (spotted deer), sambhar deer, nilgai, chinkara, and four-horned antelope. Along with these mammals, the park supports a rich variety of birds: peacocks, woodpeckers (e.g. flame-back woodpecker), thrushes and other forest birds making it a good spot for wildlife and bird-watching. The park features mud trails, a waterhole, and a watchtower (machan) near the waterbody from which visitors can get a panoramic view of the sanctuary and even the nearby Madhuban Dam. Visitors can go around the park in government-operated vans which helps maintain a calm, disturbance-free environment for wildlife.

The ecotourism potential of Satmalia Deer Park is significant due to its accessible location and it draws local and migrant tourists looking for a quick wildlife experience. As a sanctuary that houses several deer/antelope species and diverse birds in a relatively natural, forested habitat it provides educational value. Visitors especially students, families, nature lovers can learn about native fauna, forest ecosystems, and conservation. Given its tranquil setting, biodiversity, and potential for wildlife observation, Satmalia forms part of a broader eco-tourism circuit in Dadra & Nagar Haveli, especially when combined with nearby attractions (lakes, forest trails, cultural/tribal sites), offering visitors a mix of nature, wildlife, and local heritage.