Betla National Park, "The First National Parks in India"

 

Betla National Park

Betla National Park is a national park located in the Latehar and Palamu district of Jharkhand, India. It is spread over an area of 226.32 km² (87.38 sq mi) and is a part of the Palamu Tiger Reserve.  It was declared a national park in 1986. The park hosts a wide variety of wildlife.

Geography:

Betla was one of the first national parks in India to become a tiger reserve under Project Tiger Reserve, in 1974. It was declared a national park in 1986. It is spread over 226.32 km² (87.38 sq mi) area in Palamu and Latehar district and is a part of Palamu Tiger Reserve, which comprises a total area of 1,129.93 km² (436.27 sq mi). The tourist zone area is 53 km² (20 sq mi) in the buffer zone. Betla is an acronym for bison, elephant, tiger, leopard and axis-axis which are found in the Park. The park is under the administration of the Forest Department.

Ecotourism

The park provides several opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife at close range. Jeep safaris are available with guides for venturing inside the park. Watch towers have been constructed to view the wildlife.

Betla National Park is a gem of Jharkhand—rich in wildlife, natural beauty, and history:

Overview

·         Located in Latehar & Palamu districts, the only national park in Jharkhand, covering roughly 226 km², and part of the larger Palamau Tiger Reserve (~1,130 km²)

·         One of the first Project Tiger reserves (since 1974) and declared a national park in 1986

·         Name ‘Betla’ comes from Bison, Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Axis deer—key wildlife in the park

Flora & Fauna

·         Dominated by sal and bamboo forests, interspersed with grasslands, rivers (Koel and tributaries), waterfalls, hot springs, and rich medicinal flora

·         Wildlife includes tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, wolves, gaur (Indian bison), deer (sambar, chital, barking, four-horned), as well as pangolins, civets, and monitor lizards.

·         Birdlife is diverse—180–200 species, including hornbills, peafowls, drongos, serpent eagles, and more.

Visitor Experiences

·         Jeep Safaris: Morning (6–10 AM) & evening (2–6 PM), ₹100–200 per person; guided by knowledgeable forest staff.

·         Elephant Safaris: Around ₹80–500 per head, morning only; great for spotting elusive wildlife.

·         Watchtowers & treehouses offer serene wildlife viewing opportunities.

Attractions & Nearby Sights:

·         Palamu/Chero Forts: 16th–17th-century ruins nestled in dense forest.

·         Hot Springs: General wellness retreats within the reserve.

·         Lodh Falls: One of Jharkhand’s highest waterfalls (~468 ft), ~95 km south.

·         River Confluences: Koel–Auranga confluence (Kechki Sangam) ~10–17 km away, perfect picnic spots.

Best Time to Visit

·         October–March: Ideal for calm weather and better sightings.

·         May–June: Forest foliage thins out, increasing animal visibility—though it can          be  hot.

·         Monsoon (July–September): Park remains closed.

Access & Accommodation

·         By Road: 170 km from Ranchi via NH‑75; also accessible from Daltonganj (25 km) and Barwadih (15 km).

·         By Rail: Nearest stations are Barwadih and Daltonganj .

·         By Air: Closest is Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport (~170 km).

·         Stays: Forest Rest Houses, tree houses, log huts, lodges in Betla or Daltonganj; bookings via Jharkhand Tourism. (Click here to book Room)

Tips for Visitors

·         Book safaris in advance, especially during peak season.

·         Hire a local guide.

·         Wear earth-toned clothing, carry repellent, and respect wildlife.

·         Follow park rules and timings, and carry valid ID

Betla is a must‑visit for wildlife lovers, offering well‑managed safari options, rich biodiversity, historical ruins, and cultural immersion with nearby tribal communities.