Palamau Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand is one of the original nine tiger reserves established under Project Tiger in 1973. Located within the Chota Nagpur Plateau, it encompasses Betla National Park and the Palamau Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve is known for its dry deciduous forests, scenic hills, waterfalls and historical forts, and remains an important conservation landscape in eastern India.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Jharkhand
District	Latehar
Tiger Reserve Notification	1973
Total Area	1,129.93 sq km
Core Area	414.08 sq km
Buffer Area	715.85 sq km
Landscape	Chota Nagpur Plateau
Forest Types	Tropical Dry and Moist Deciduous Forests
Major Rivers	North Koel, Burha and Auranga
Best Time to Visit	November to April

Location

The reserve lies in Latehar district of Jharkhand and forms part of the forested Chota Nagpur Plateau.

History

Palamau was among the first nine Project Tiger reserves in 1973. Betla National Park, one of India’s earliest national parks, forms its tourism core.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Spread over 1,129.93 sq km with a core of 414.08 sq km and buffer of 715.85 sq km, the reserve contains undulating hills, valleys, bamboo brakes, dry deciduous forests, perennial streams and grasslands.

Flora

Teak, sal, bamboo, mahua, tendu, arjun, jamun, palash and numerous shrubs, grasses and medicinal plants dominate the vegetation.

Fauna

Wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Dhole, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Rhesus Macaque and over 170 bird species. Reptiles include Indian Rock Python, Cobra and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The North Koel River and its tributaries provide vital water resources throughout the reserve.

Other Attractions

Betla National Park, Palamau Forts, waterfalls, elephant sightings and birdwatching attract visitors.

Weather & Climate

Summers are hot, monsoon rainfall is moderate to heavy and winters are cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Ranchi. Nearest railway stations: Daltonganj (Medininagar) and Barwadih. The reserve is well connected by road from Ranchi.

Best Time to Visit

November to April is ideal for tourism and wildlife observation.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Jharkhand Tourism accommodation are available near Betla and other authorised locations, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Palamau remains a key tiger landscape in eastern India, with ongoing habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, camera-trap monitoring and corridor conservation.

Visitor Tips

Book safaris in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, maintain silence and follow Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• Palamau was among the original Project Tiger reserves.
• Betla National Park is one of India’s earliest national parks.
• The historic Palamau Forts lie within the reserve landscape.

Last Updated

July 2026