Indravati National Park

Indravati National Park In Chhattisgarh, India

Indravati National Park, located in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, is one of the most prominent National Parks in India Known for its dense forests and rich wildlife, it is the only tiger reserve in the state and forms part of the Dandakaranya forests. It is named after the Indravati River that flows along its northern boundary. Covering an area of 1,258 square kilometers, it is the only tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh and was declared a national park in 1981 before being designated as a tiger reserve in 1983 under Project Tiger.

The park is known for its dense forests, rolling hills, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems, making it one of the most diverse and ecologically significant protected areas in the Deccan Plateau region. The landscape is dominated by tropical moist and dry deciduous forests, with key tree species like sal, teak, bamboo, mahua, and tendu, which provide essential habitat and food for various herbivores and carnivores.

Indravati National Park is home to the elusive Bengal tiger, Indian leopards, sloth bears, dholes (Indian wild dogs), striped hyenas, and jungle cats, making it a critical site for large carnivore conservation. It also houses a significant population of Indian gaurs (bison), nilgai (blue bulls), blackbucks, chital (spotted deer), sambar deer, and four-horned antelopes, ensuring a rich prey base for predators.

The park is one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered wild water buffalo, which is considered the state animal of Chhattisgarh. Additionally, Indravati supports numerous bird species, including peacocks, herons, eagles, hornbills, and vultures, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Reptiles and amphibians, such as cobras, pythons, and freshwater turtles, can also be found in its wetlands and riverbanks.

However, due to security concerns linked to Naxalite activities, tourism in the park remains limited, making it one of India’s least-explored but ecologically valuable national parks. Despite its tourism challenges, Indravati National Park In Chhattisgarh remains an essential wildlife sanctuary, offering pristine natural beauty, incredible biodiversity, and immense conservation significance, making it a crucial stronghold for India’s tiger and wild buffalo populations.

Flora And Fauna

• Wild Buffaloes
• Tigers
• Hill Mynas