Dholpur Karauli Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Dholpur–Karauli Tiger Reserve, notified in 2023 as India’s 54th Tiger Reserve, is located in eastern Rajasthan. The reserve protects a unique landscape of ravines, dry deciduous forests and the Chambal riverine ecosystem, strengthening habitat connectivity between Ranthambore and other forests of eastern Rajasthan.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Rajasthan
Districts	Dholpur and Karauli
Tiger Reserve Notification	2023
Total Area	1,075.72 sq km
Core Area	approximately 537 sq km
Buffer Area	approximately 539 sq km
Landscape	Vindhyan Plateau and Chambal Ravines
Forest Types	Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests and Thorn Scrub
Major Rivers	Chambal and Parvati
Best Time to Visit	October to March

Location

The reserve spans Dholpur and Karauli districts in eastern Rajasthan.

History

The reserve was notified in 2023 under Project Tiger, becoming Rajasthan’s fifth Tiger Reserve and India’s 54th Tiger Reserve.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The landscape comprises rugged plateaus, deep Chambal ravines, dry deciduous forests, scrublands and riverine habitats that support a wide variety of wildlife.

Flora

Dhok, khair, salar, ber, babul, neem, bamboo in patches, native grasses and thorny shrubs dominate the vegetation.

Fauna

Important wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Striped Hyena, Sloth Bear, Wolf in surrounding areas, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Mugger Crocodile and numerous bird species.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Chambal River and its tributaries provide perennial water and important aquatic habitats.

Other Attractions

Chambal river safaris, birdwatching, ravine landscapes and historic forts nearby enhance visitor appeal.

Weather & Climate

Summers are extremely hot, monsoons bring moderate rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Jaipur. Nearest railway stations: Dholpur and Hindaun City. Good road connectivity is available from Jaipur, Agra and Kota.

Best Time to Visit

October to March offers the most comfortable weather.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Rajasthan Tourism accommodation are available at authorised locations with advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

The reserve strengthens tiger conservation in eastern Rajasthan through habitat protection, corridor management, prey recovery and anti-poaching efforts.

Visitor Tips

Book visits in advance, wear muted colours and follow Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• Dholpur–Karauli became India’s 54th Tiger Reserve in 2023.
• It protects the distinctive Chambal ravine ecosystem.
• It is Rajasthan’s fifth Tiger Reserve.

Last Updated

July 2026