Experiencing the National Parks of Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, showcasing a remarkable diversity of fauna within its lush and varied landscapes. With 44 per cent of the total area comprising forests, Chhattisgarh is among the states which has the maximum land under forest area. Therefore, the state has immense possibility for wildlife and eco-tourism. The state’s extensive forest cover provides a conducive environment for a wide range of wildlife species. Among the notable inhabitants are majestic mammals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, and bison, which roam freely in the protected areas and sanctuaries. Chhattisgarh’s three National Parks—Indravati, Kanger Valley, and Guru Ghasi Das—stand as vital conservation zones, harbouring a plethora of wildlife species. Apart from this there are 10 wildlife sanctuaries as well.

Chhattisgarh boasts an abundance of pristine natural resources, encompassing diverse ecosystems such as mountains, plateaus, and plains. The state’s lush and untouched forests serve as the origin of significant rivers, including Mahanadi, Narmada, and Indravati, housing a rich variety of exotic flora and fauna. The rivers and wetlands contribute to a thriving avian population, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Wetland areas like Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary attract a host of migratory birds. The vibrant birdlife includes species like the Indian Pitta, Hill Myna, and the state bird of Chhattisgarh, the Bastar Hill Myna.

KANGER VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Located in the long and scenic Kanger Valley, a biosphere reserve, the Kanger Valley National Park is one of the most beautiful and picturesque national parks in India. Known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, Kanger Valley became a national park in 1982. Besides wildlife and flora, there are many tourist attractions inside the park such as the Kotumsar Caves, Kailash Caves, Dandak Caves and Tiratgarh Waterfalls.

The Kotumsar Caves are a mesmerizing underground network of limestone caves. Known for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, these caves offer a unique and fascinating exploration into the subterranean wonders of nature. Tirathgarh Falls is a picturesque waterfall cascading from a height of approximately 300 feet. Surrounded by dense forests and serene landscapes, Tirathgarh Falls is a captivating destination that offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts.

INDRAVATI NATIONAL PARK

Indravati National Park is one of the finest wildlife destinations in Chhattisgarh and is located in Dantewada district. The park derives its name from the Indravati River, which flows from east to west and forms the northern boundary of the reserve with the state of Maharashtra. It is also a tiger reserve.

GURU GHASIDAS NATIONAL PARK

Previously Sanjay Gandhi National Park, this park was renamed after the Satnami reformist hero, Guru Ghasidas. Today, Guru Ghasidas National Park is a scenic destination in Korea district. Lush with sal, bamboo and mixed forests, it is home to tigers and other large mammals.

BARNAWAPARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

This sanctuary, named after Bar and Nawapara forest villages which lie at its heart, features undulating terrain dotted with numerous low and high hillocks and lush forest of sal and mixed trees in the north-eastern corner of Raipur district. The tributaries of the Mahanadi are the primary water source here. The Balamdehi River forms the western boundary and the Jonk River forms the north-eastern boundary of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is famous for the frequent sighting of the Indian bison (Gaur), Cheetal, Sambhar, Nilgai, and Wild Boar. Sloth Bear, Wild Dog, Porcupine, Jungle Cat, Fox, Striped Hyena, Barking Deer are also found here. The Balar reservoir situated inside the sanctuary supports a number of wetland birds and fishes. Barnawapara boasts over 150 species of birds including several migratory species. Some of them are Peafowl, Jungle Fowl and Crow Pheasant.

ACHANAKMAR TIGER RESERVE

This tiger reserve features a mix of tropical moist deciduous and tropical dry deciduous forest. The reserve is also a part of the much larger Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. Sal, bija, saja, haldu, teak, tinsa, dhavara, lendia, khamar and bamboo flourish here along with over 600 species of medicinal plants. The winding Maniyari River that flows right through the heart of the reserve is its lifeline. Wild fauna found here includes the tiger, leopard, bison, flying squirrel, Indian giant squirrel, chinkara, wild dog, hyena, sambar, chital and over 150 species of birds.

The wildlife and sanctuaries of Chhattisgarh stand as a testament to the state’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship. Rich in flora and fauna, the sanctuaries not only provide a safe haven for endangered species but also offer a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the intrinsic value of wildlife. The diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to lush grasslands, showcase the state’s ecological resilience. Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike find solace in exploring the diverse habitats and observing the fascinating fauna that call Chhattisgarh home.

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