India /Jharkhand /Palamu /Betla National Park
Betla National Park is located in the Palamu district of the state of Jharkhand. This place has the distinction of being the first park to gain the status of a tiger reserve under the new project known as Project Tiger. Tigers are the main attraction in this place and tourists come here to catch a glimpse of the endangered animal. Some of the animals that can be seen in the park are rhesus monkeys, owls, mouse deer, drongos, civets and elephants. The best way to get around the park is through the safaris that are arranged for tourists. There are daily safaris that are usually conducted in jeeps that belong to the forest department and they are safe as they are equipped with protective grills. The park is covered by thick forest; however sighting wildlife is not a problem. There are a few hot springs and waterfalls in the park as well and these are also included in the safaris. One of the most popular activities here is the elephant ride and these are available for short distances. However since they are popular, they might have to be booked in advance. There is a tree house located near a watering hole that is used to watch animals. The winter season is during the months from December to February.
Betla National Park
Quick Facts-Edit
Category : Wildlife
Time Zone: UTC + 5:30 Hours
Pincode: 822111
STD Code: 6562
Info Website: www.hcn.org
Best Time to Visit: Oct – Apr
HistoryEdit
Betla is one of the first national parks in India located in the Chotanagpur Plateau of the Palamau district of Jharkhand, India. Palamau wildlife Sanctuary was initially created with an area of 980 sq km. Later in 1989 with an area of 227 sq km of Palamau Sanctuary was declared as Betla National Park. Palamau forests are covered with raw jungles with above 969 species of plants. The forest is abode of about some 36 tigers, 61 leopards, 211 elephants, 250 bison and 174 species of birds. There have five rickety observation towers for watching wildlife in Betla Park. The sanctuary has also several historical monuments and forts, inside the Betla forests. This park is a great attraction to tourists. Large herds of Gaur and Chital are commonly seen. Elephants are seen mostly after the monsoons up to the time when water holes begin to dry up in March. Tiger, Panther, Sloth Bear, Wild Bear, Sambhar, Nilgai, Kakar, Mouse Deer, Peacock are also spotted. Large families of langurs are an ever-present attraction. It has waterfalls and hot springs too. Once the seat of Chero Kings, it also has some historical monuments and a fort Betla Fort of 16th century inside the forest. There are two rivers, Koel and Burha, which eventually empty into the famous Sone River. There are five Watch Towers from where animals can be easily observed and photographs taken.The park, at an average elevation of 100ft is open throughout the year although February, March and April are the best months to visit.
Places to VisitAdd
How to ReachEdit
By Air : The closest airport is located at Ranchi and there are frequent flights from places such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Patna. Three airline operators offer services to the airport. Since this is the only airport in the region, it is the most suitable option. Taxis are available from the airport and they charge Rs 7 per kilometer. One can also book taxis through the resorts and hotels and these are a safer option.
By Train : The closest railhead is located at Barwadih. The station is connected to Ranchi with frequent and tourists can opt for this. Tickets prices vary between Rs 120 and 170 depending on the train. The other option is the Ranchi Railway Station and this is connected to Delhi, Varanasi and Howrah.
By BUS : Buses are also available from the town of Barwadih to Betla National Park.
By Taxi : The Betla National Park is located at a distance of around 140 kilometers from the city of Ranchi. One can reach the place using taxis.
By Other : N.A
Top HotelsAdd
Top RestaurantsAdd
- Lazeez Restauran ; Daltenganj, JH 822101 ; M – N.A ; Food Serve : Indian
- Madhuban ; Daltenganj, JH 822101 ; M – N.A ; Food Serve : Indian
Must Eat FoodAdd
Must Do ActivitiesAdd
Elephant Safari ; Betla National Forest and village ; Cost – 4 people Rs. 100 ; Visiting Time – N.A; Closed Time : N.A
Must ShopAdd
Nightlife (Pub / Disc / BAR)Add
SpaAdd
FestivalAdd
Safety / WarningEdit
N.A
HelplineEdit
- Police : 100
- Fire : 101
- Ambulance : 102,108.
ItineraryEdit
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