Palamu National Park is in the Palamu district of Jharkhand, India. Covering over 1,000 square kilometres, the national park boasts varied species, such as the elusive Bengal tiger, leopards, and many birds. The dense forest, complemented by hilly terrain, makes it an idle backdrop for some adventurous activity including an enthralling safari and mysterious nature walks. The national park is about a lifetime experience and daring with a lot to explore and discover adventure for a wildlife explorer or a laid-back nature lover.
Location
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The national park is in the district of Palamu, in the state of Jharkhand, India, in a setting that presents an authentic wilderness experience over a vast expanse of more than 1,000 square kilometres amidst dense forests and rough terrain of the Chotanagpur Plateau. Combining an extended large area with diversified landscapes guarantees a great diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, making it a destination of choice.
How To Reach
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By Road: You can reach the national park by road from major cities such as Ranchi or Patna. It is well connected through state highways.
By Train: The second option is rail, as the nearest railway station is Daltonganj, 40 km from the park. Many trains connect this railway station to other important cities.
By Air: The nearest airport is Ranchi, about 160 km from the park. A taxi can be hired from there, or the park can be reached by bus.
Things To Do
From witnessing a variety of endangered species to taking serene walks, there are a lot of activities you can indulge in at the park.
1. Wildlife Safaris
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Indulge in exciting wildlife safaris at the national park, home to the diverse forest of this place, and spot the rare Bengal tiger, leopard, and numerous deer species. Expert insights about the park’s ecology and wildlife behaviour are made known with the help of guided tours, thereby deepening the experience. To get the best opportunity to see the most varied selection of wildlife, it is recommended that you go out during the morning and evening safaris.
2. Nature Walks
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Have a nature walk in the park, which is an eye-opener to the tranquil beauty of the reserve. One of the main highlights of this trek is the variety of ecosystems inside the park, forming dense forests and scenic hills. On this trek, one can observe rich flora and fauna, along with detailed knowledge about the uniqueness of the plant species and their ecological roles inside the park. On the other hand, nature treks bring you closer to the environment.
3. Bird Watching
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The nature experience gained at this park is more heightened, particularly for the budding ornithologists. The Park provides strong bird life with several avian species. Please spend some time bird-watching your day to see the various species of beautiful and unique birds in their natural habitats. The varied ecosystem of the park attracts many species of birds, both resident and migratory. The best time to watch birds is in the early morning when many species are active.
Places To Visit In And Around Palamu National Park
The national park is a storehouse of natural bounty and wilderness. Some of the places that should not be missed out when in and around the park are:
1. Betla Fort
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Betla Fort, amid the vast national park, is a spectacular historical site that adds a distinct dimension to your visit. The ancient fort, set smartly on a hilltop, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s surrounding forests and wildlife habitats. The historical significance and beauty place Betla Fort into the category of captivating sites for historians and naturalists. A visit to the fort adds to your experience of the national park.
Location: Palamau Fort (New), Medininagar, Jharkhand 822111
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Hariharganj
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The beautiful village of Hariharganj, close to the national park, is a lovely place to take a cultural tour, and the park’s natural beauty is excellent. With its serene surroundings and the conventional way of living, Hariharganj allows visitors to truly live the culture amidst the scenic beauty of the neighbouring countryside. A visit to this charming village complements your adventure at the national park by providing an insight into rural life and traditional practices that enrich the exploration of the region.
Location: Hariharganj, Jharkhand 822131
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
3. Lohardaga
Photo: Rupesh Kumar Sahu / Wikimedia Commons
Lohardaga town is almost near to the park. The city is very vivid regarding its rich cultural heritage and peace. This hustle-bustling town offers a vibrant experience with the markets in full swing, local handicrafts, and scenic beauty. The visit to Lohardaga adds to your understanding of the the national park, especially in terms of familiarising you with the Said culture and community lives because it provides a drastic yet dynamic difference to the serene yet wild beauty of the park. Lohardaga is, in every respect, a benefit to the value of your travel.
Location: Jharkhand 835302
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Stay
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When visiting the national park, various accommodation options are available to suit individual tastes and budgets. The Forest Rest House is inside the park, offering basic facilities with easy access to the wildlife viewing areas. If you want to stay in style and comfort, the Palamu Tourist Lodge offers modern amenities amidst scenic surroundings. In both instances, you are always very close to the park’s natural attractions, which adds immensely to your experience.
Where To Eat
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Several local eateries and restaurants around the park offer glimpses of the regional cuisine for you to enjoy. The most preferred place is Hotel Roshni in Daltonganj due to its variety of food dishes and the comfort of the place. It serves Indian and international cuisine. The Chandni Restaurant serves local food and traditional meals to taste the local flavour.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Palamu National Park in Jharkhand, India, is generally from October to March. The place is more comfortable during this time, with little humidity and cooler temperatures, and is ideal for wildlife spotting and exploring the features of the park’s natural beauty.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip
The average cost of the trip can range anywhere between ₹3,000 – 5,000 per person, which includes food, stay, and transport. Keeping spare cash in hand is also advisable in cases of unforeseen circumstances.
Tips For Travellers
- Try to carry cash mostly as ATMs are only available in some places.
- Book accommodation and safari in advance.
- Refrain from going near any animal and respect the park’s law.
- Carry water and consume it while on an expedition.
The Palamu National Park is a fantastic site that is a must-visit for everyone interested in witnessing the beauty of natural India. Those who like to plan can keep track of the timings to ensure they experience the best of the park. The Palamu National Park photos give an essence of its landscape and wildlife, preparing you for the beautiful sights in advance. Plan a trip with TripXL for a hassle-free experience amidst nature’s lap.
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