The Parks of Chattisgarh
The Famous National Parks In Chattisgarh
1. Guru Ghasidas National Park - Near Sidhi, Manendragarh, Chirimiri
Facilities
Restrooms: Available at the entrance and key points within the park.
Cafes: Limited, but small local eateries and food stalls may be found near the entrance.
Clinics: Basic medical facilities and first aid available at the park entrance. For more advanced medical care, visitors should seek hospitals in nearby towns.
Visitor Centers: Information desks and guides available at the entrance.
Hotels
- On-site Accommodation: Forest Rest Houses and lodges within the park.
- Nearby Hotels: Options available in Manendragarh and Chirimiri with a range of budgets from budget lodges to mid-range hotels.
Events
- Wildlife Safaris: Regularly scheduled safaris for wildlife viewing.
- Nature Walks: Guided nature walks and bird-watching tours.
- Local Festivals: Events aligned with local cultural and tribal festivals.
Activities
Wildlife Safaris: Jeep safaris for spotting animals like tigers, leopards, and deer.
Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers with many endemic and migratory species.
Trekking: Trails available for nature walks and trekking.
Photography: Excellent opportunities for wildlife and nature photography.
Famous For
The park is famous for its population of tigers and other wildlife like leopards, elephants, and various species of deer.
Plant/Vegetation/Climate
Vegetation: Known for its dense Sal forests, mixed deciduous forests, and bamboo groves.
Climate: The climate is tropical with hot summers and moderate winters.
Restaurants
- Within the Park: Limited options, primarily small eateries or food stalls.
- Nearby: Various dining options in nearby towns such as Manendragarh and Chirimiri, offering local and Indian cuisine.
Recommended Activities
Wildlife Viewing: Best done through organized jeep safaris.
Bird Watching: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for bird watching.
Trekking: Several trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Photography: Ideal for capturing the park's diverse flora and fauna.
2. Indravati National Park - Near Dantewada
Facilities
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available within the park. However, for more amenities, you might need to head to nearby towns or designated park entry points.
Cafes: There are limited food options within the park itself. Visitors typically need to bring their own food or rely on local eateries outside the park.
Clinics: There are no clinics within the park. For medical emergencies, it is advisable to travel to Dantewada or other nearby towns.
Hotels
Available Hotels: Several hotels and lodges are available in Dantewada and the surrounding areas. Options range from budget accommodations to more comfortable stays. Some popular choices include:
- Hotel Geetanjali
- Hotel Sunbeam
- Hotel Hukumchand
- Forest Rest House (for a more rustic experience)
Events Planned
Events: The park does not typically host large-scale events. However, local festivals and cultural events may take place in nearby villages and towns.
Activities
Activities Done: Visitors to Indravati National Park can engage in:
- Wildlife Safaris: Guided jeep safaris are available to explore the park’s diverse wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers with a variety of bird species.
- Nature Walks: Guided nature walks and treks are offered to explore the park’s flora and fauna.
- Photography: The park is a great spot for nature and wildlife photography.
Famous For
What Is It Famous For: Indravati National Park is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is also known for its remote and less disturbed environment, making it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts.
Animals
What Animal Is It Famous For: The park is particularly famous for its population of the rare and endangered Wild Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee). It is also home to other wildlife like tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various deer species.
Plants/Vegetation/Climate
Plant/Vegetation: The park features lush tropical forests with a mix of sal, teak, and bamboo. The vegetation is dense and supports a rich diversity of wildlife.
Climate: The climate is tropical, with a hot and dry season from March to June and a monsoon season from July to October. Winters are mild and pleasant.
Restaurants
Restaurants Available: Dining options within the park are limited. For meals, visitors usually rely on local restaurants in Dantewada or packed meals.
Recommended Activities
Safari Tours: To spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty.
Bird Watching: For enthusiasts looking to see diverse bird species.
Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing the park's landscapes and wildlife.
Cultural Visits: Explore local tribal cultures and traditions in nearby villages.
3. Kanger Ghati National Park - Near Jagdalpur
Facilities
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available at some of the major entry points and popular spots within the park. They may not be very sophisticated, so it's good to be prepared.
Cafes: There are limited options for cafes inside the park. Visitors often bring their own food and water.
Clinics: Basic medical facilities are available in Jagdalpur. There are no major clinics within the park itself, so it's advisable to carry a first aid kit and seek medical help in town if needed.
Hotels Available
Jagdalpur has several hotels ranging from budget to mid-range options. Some popular ones include:
- Hotel Mewar: Known for its comfortable stay and good service.
- Hotel Green Palace: Offers a decent stay with necessary amenities.
- Hotel Kanker Palace: A more upscale option, providing a unique experience.
Events Planned
The park does not have a regular schedule of events, but special eco-tourism and wildlife awareness programs may be organized periodically. It’s a good idea to check with local tourism offices for any upcoming events.
Activities Done
Activities Done: Visitors to Kanger Ghati National Park can engage in:
- Trekking: There are several trekking trails with varying difficulty levels.
- Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to spot various animals, including the unique species found in the park.
- Photography: The diverse flora and fauna make it a great spot for wildlife and nature photography.
- Nature Walks: Guided walks are available to explore the park's biodiversity.
Famous For
What Is It Famous For: Kanger Ghati National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine natural beauty. It’s part of the Bastar region’s unique ecosystem.
Stunning Landscapes: The park features picturesque landscapes, including waterfalls, dense forests, and rugged terrain.
Animals
What Animal Is It Famous For: The park is famous for the Bastar Giant Squirrel, a rare and endangered species. It is also home to a range of other animals, including tigers, leopards, and several species of deer.
Plants/Vegetation/Climate
Plant Diversity: The park boasts a wide variety of plant species, including sal trees, bamboo, and different types of shrubs.
Vegetation: It features dense tropical forests and is part of the Eastern Ghats’ rich vegetation.
Climate: The climate is tropical, with a hot and humid summer, a monsoon season with heavy rainfall, and a relatively cool winter.
Restaurants Available
Dining options inside the park are minimal. Visitors typically dine in Jagdalpur, where there are various restaurants offering local and regional cuisine. In Jagdalpur, you can find restaurants like Hotel Mahendra and Rameshwar Mess that serve local delicacies.
Recommended Activities
Guided Wildlife Tours: To maximize your chances of spotting rare animals and to learn more about the park’s ecosystem.
Photography Tours: Capture the park's natural beauty and wildlife.
Exploring Waterfalls: The park has several scenic waterfalls worth visiting.