Guru Ghasidas Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, located in northern Chhattisgarh, is India’s 56th Tiger Reserve. Notified in 2021, it forms an important part of the Central Indian forest landscape and provides habitat connectivity with the forests of Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand. The reserve comprises the Guru Ghasidas National Park and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary, protecting extensive sal forests, plateaus, valleys and river systems.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Chhattisgarh
Districts	Koriya, Surajpur and Balrampur
Tiger Reserve Notification	2021
Total Area	2,829.38 sq km
Core Area	2,049.20 sq km
Buffer Area	780.15 sq km
Landscape	Central Indian Highlands
Forest Types	Tropical Moist and Dry Deciduous Forests
Major Rivers	Hasdeo, Rihand and seasonal streams
Best Time to Visit	November to June

Location

The reserve lies in northern Chhattisgarh near the borders of Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand and occupies a strategic position for wildlife movement across the Central Indian landscape.

History

Guru Ghasidas National Park was created after the former Sanjay National Park was divided between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In 2021, the National Park together with Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary was notified as Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, significantly expanding tiger conservation in central India.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve spans 2,829.38 sq km, including a core area of 2,049.20 sq km and a buffer of 780.15 sq km. It contains undulating plateaus, forested hills, valleys, perennial streams and extensive sal-dominated forests that provide habitat for large carnivores and herbivores.

Flora

Major tree species include sal, saja, bija, dhaora, mahua, tendu, bamboo, arjun, jamun and numerous medicinal plants. Rich undergrowth and grasslands support diverse wildlife.

Fauna

The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant (seasonal movement), Sloth Bear, Dhole, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar and many smaller mammals. Birdlife includes hornbills, eagles, owls, woodpeckers and numerous forest birds. Indian Rock Python, Cobra and Monitor Lizard are among the reptiles.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Hasdeo and Rihand river systems along with numerous perennial streams maintain water availability throughout the year.

Other Attractions

Dense forests, scenic valleys, waterfalls in the surrounding landscape and opportunities for nature tourism under regulated conditions.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm, the southwest monsoon brings substantial rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airports: Raipur and Prayagraj (for some sectors). Nearest railway stations include Baikunthpur Road and Ambikapur, with road access from major towns in northern Chhattisgarh.

Best Time to Visit

November to June offers favourable weather for wildlife tourism, subject to park regulations.

Accommodation

Forest Department inspection bungalows and Government accommodation are available in selected locations subject to prior booking.

Conservation Highlights

The reserve strengthens tiger conservation by securing a vast contiguous forest landscape, improving habitat connectivity, reducing fragmentation and supporting scientific monitoring and anti-poaching measures.

Visitor Tips

Travel only through authorised routes, respect wildlife, avoid littering, wear muted colours and follow Forest Department instructions.

Did You Know?

• Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla became India’s 56th Tiger Reserve in 2021.
• It is among the largest tiger reserves in the country.
• The reserve enhances connectivity across the Central Indian tiger landscape.

Last Updated

July 2026