Kanger Valley National Park- Where Nature Unfolds Its Secrets
Kanger Valley National Park
Kanger Valley National Park is a beautiful national park located in the Bastar region, southern part of Chhattisgarh, near Jagdalpur. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and dense vegetation. It is home to various species of trees, plants, and medicinal herbs. Sal forests dominate the landscape. The park is inhabited by diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, and various species of primates such as langurs and macaques.
Kutumsar Cave
One of the unique attractions in the park is the Kutumsar Cave, also known as the Bats Cave. It’s a limestone cave system and is considered one of the longest caves in the world. Visitors can explore its chambers and witness impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
A vertical fissure in the wall of a hill serves as the main entry for the cave. A concrete path has been made extending to the end of the cave. The main tunnel of the cave is nearly 200 m long with several lateral and downward passages. Various types of speleothems offer panoramic views.
Kanger Valley National Park map
Kanger Valley National Park is situated 24 km, Southeast of Jagdalpur district, on Jagdalpur -Darbha Road. The National Park derives its name from the Kanger River, which flows centrally from the Northwest to the Southeast direction.
Kanger Valley National Park Safari
Kanger Valley National Park offers safari experiences for visitors to explore and observe the wildlife in its natural habitat. These are the Safari options at Kanger Valley –
Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are a popular way to explore the park and observe wildlife.
Open jeeps are typically used for better visibility and a more immersive experience.
Trained guides accompany visitors during the safari to provide information about the park’s flora and fauna.
Duration
Safaris in Kanger Valley can vary in duration. They may last for a few hours, allowing visitors to cover specific zones within the park.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to various species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, deer, bison, langurs, and numerous bird species. The safari provides an opportunity to witness these animals in their natural habitat.
Booking and Permits
Visitors usually need to obtain permits for the safari, and these can be obtained through the forest department or relevant authorities. It’s advisable to check with the park authorities or the local forest department for information on booking procedures, availability, and any specific requirements.
Also Read- Sirpur Chhattisgarh- A Guide to Ancient Treasures
Best Time for Safari
The winter months, from October to March, are considered the best time for safaris when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more likely.
Trekking Safari
Some areas within the park may be explored on foot, offering a trekking safari experience. Trekking safaris allow for a more intimate connection with nature, and visitors may come across smaller wildlife and unique plant species.
When planning a safari at Kanger Valley, it’s recommended to contact the local forest department or park authorities in advance to inquire about current regulations, availability, and any special considerations. Following safety guidelines and respecting the natural environment contribute to a positive and responsible safari experience.
Tirathgarh Waterfall
Located near the park, Tirathgarh Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction. It cascades down from a height and offers a picturesque setting. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery.
Kanger Valley National Park Resorts
Kanger Valley National Park is a protected area known for its biodiversity and natural beauty. While the park itself may not have resorts within its boundaries, there are accommodation options available in nearby towns, especially Jagdalpur, which is a common base for visitors exploring the park.
Jagdalpur is the main town near Kanger Valley National Park, and you’ll likely find a range of accommodation options there, including resorts, hotels, and guesthouses.
Utilize online travel platforms like Booking.com, TripAdvisor, or similar websites to search for accommodations near Kanger Valley. These platforms often provide reviews and ratings to help you make informed decisions. Check the official tourism website of Chhattisgarh or local tourism boards for information on recommended accommodations in the area.
How to reach Kanger Valley National Park
The nearest airport is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, which is approximately 300 kilometers from Jagdalpur. From Raipur, you can either take a domestic flight or hire a taxi to reach Jagdalpur. Jagdalpur also has a railway station that is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train to Jagdalpur from various cities like Visakhapatnam, Raipur, and Bhubaneswar.
Jagdalpur to Kanger Valley National Park
The distance between Jagdalpur and Kanger Valley is approximately 27 kilometers by road. The travel time by car or other modes of transportation should be around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the specific route taken and the prevailing road conditions.
Car/Taxi
Many visitors choose to hire a car or taxi to travel from Jagdalpur to Kanger Valley National Park. This provides flexibility and convenience. Local transportation options, such as buses or shared vehicles, may also be available, depending on the local infrastructure.
