Mukandra Hills Tiger Reserve

Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, formerly known as Darrah Tiger Reserve, is located in Rajasthan’s Kota, Bundi, Chittorgarh and Jhalawar districts. Notified as a Tiger Reserve in 2013, it protects the Mukundra Hills range and serves as an important conservation landscape connecting forests of southeastern Rajasthan.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Rajasthan
Districts	Kota, Bundi, Chittorgarh and Jhalawar
Tiger Reserve Notification	2013
Total Area	759.99 sq km
Core Area	417.17 sq km
Buffer Area	342.82 sq km
Landscape	Vindhyan Hills
Forest Types	Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
Major Rivers	Chambal, Ahu and Kali Sindh
Best Time to Visit	October to March

Location

The reserve extends across southeastern Rajasthan and includes Mukundra Hills National Park and adjoining protected forests.

History

Originally protected as Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, the landscape was upgraded to Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in 2013 under Project Tiger to restore a viable tiger population.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve covers 759.99 sq km, including a 417.17 sq km core and 342.82 sq km buffer. It comprises rugged hills, escarpments, valleys, dry deciduous forests, scrublands and riverine habitats.

Flora

Dominant vegetation includes dhok, salar, khair, ber, bamboo in patches, acacia, neem and native grasses.

Fauna

Wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Wolf in surrounding landscapes, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Mugger Crocodile and over 250 bird species.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Chambal River and its tributaries, including the Ahu and Kali Sindh, provide important aquatic and riparian habitats.

Other Attractions

Mukundra Hills, Chambal river scenery, wildlife safaris, birdwatching and historic Darrah landscapes attract visitors.

Weather & Climate

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

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Jaipur. Nearest railway station: Kota Junction. Excellent road connectivity from Kota and Bundi.

Best Time to Visit

October to March offers the most pleasant weather for wildlife viewing.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Rajasthan Tourism accommodation are available near authorised tourism zones with prior booking.

Conservation Highlights

The reserve supports tiger recovery through habitat restoration, prey augmentation, anti-poaching patrols and scientific monitoring while strengthening connectivity across southeastern Rajasthan.

Visitor Tips

Book visits in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, avoid littering and follow Forest Department guidelines.

Did You Know?

• Mukundra Hills was formerly known as Darrah Tiger Reserve.
• It was notified under Project Tiger in 2013.
• The Chambal River forms part of its landscape.

Last Updated

July 2026