Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a heaven for wildlife and is situated in Chhattisgarh State of India. It is part of larger Achanakmar Biosphere Reserve.
The tiger reserve spans over 914 sq.km it spans over Mungeri District of Chhattisgarh State and over Anuppur and Dindori District of Madhya Pradesh. Its status as wildlife sanctuary was upgraded to National Park in the year 1975 and subsequently it was notified as tiger reserve in the year 2009.
The tiger reserve is divided into core zone which is critical habitat and an outer protection layer notified as buffer zone. The area of the core zone is 626. 19 sq.km. The outer layer or the buffer zone is 287.882 sq.km.
The population of tigers in the reserve is now 18 rising from 5 whence they were translocated from other reserves. Tigers are breeding well at Achanakmar Tiger Reserve with a population of ten adults and 8 cubs.
Best time to visit Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is November to December although the park is open from October onwards. The park is closed for tourism from July to September every year.
Onfoot safari is not allowed in the park the best means of safari in the park is on open jeep. An entrance fee and forest guide charge has to paid apart from jeep cost for the safari. The cost can be shared or the jeep hired privately for the family. Most of the wildlife photographers or film makers hire the safari jeep privately. The accompaniment of the forest guide is a must for the safari. The guide is designated in the permit issued at the entrance gate along with the route. The prescribed route is fixed and cannot be changed.
Nauradehi is slated to be the country's 3rd Cheetah Site. Thus tiger conservation at Nauradehi has been integrated with Cheetah conservation giving a further boost to over all conservation efforts encompassing Rani Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.
Nauradehi is a mixed dry deciduous forest but also encompasses extensive grasslands that is most suited habitat for the fleet footed black buck. The diverse habitats thus supports a wide range of species very few tiger reserves exhibit such amazing range in India.
Though not very popular as a tourist destination with the introduction of tigers and the proposed introduction of Cheetah the park so far hidden away from limelight is once again regaining its lost glory.
Veerangana Tiger Reserve of which Nauradehi is a part is managed by a field director and a DFO along with a retinue of staff ranging for deputies to forest guards.
Conserving the tiger reserve is not easy as it is compounded by a number of villages in the periphery. As a programme of Project Tiger Reserve the villages are being relocated after due compensation. A number of villages have been already shifted outside the reserve and the process is being continued.
Ranthambore is one of the most
charismatic parks in India famous for its wildlife and birds. Ranthambore has a
history as well. Long ruled by the Rajput clans that created magnificent
structures some of which still remain intact. While on safari you can see
manmade lakes, a fort, and the famous Ganesh Temple.
Tiger at Ranthambore
The Ranthambore fort is now
devoid of humans and only the tigers inhabit it. On a tiger safari tourists see
tigers sheltered in the ancient structure and ruins which makes the safari not
only exciting but romantic as well.
Ranthambore National Park
The park was first established as
Sawai Madhopur Game century in the year 1955. The former hunting ground of the
Maharaja or Jaipur the last ruler was declared a Tiger Reserve in the year 1973
and a National Park in the year 1980.
Tigers of Ranthambore
The park was made famous by
Machli the tigress who had developed a hunting method in water. She would hide
near the lakes in the bushes to wait for the deer to come to the lake
to browse aquatic plants. At an opportune moment, she would rush into the
waters to kill the panicked deer and drag them into the shores to consume. This
is not the end of the story for many times her prey would be grabbed by the
crocodiles and an exciting tussle would ensue. This made Ranthambore famous all
across the globe and major documentary makers and wildlife photographers
arrived on a filming spree to Ranthambore.
Tiger in Lake
Many documentaries have been made
of Macchli hunting the deer and a tussle with crocodiles has also been filmed.
Ranthambore is famous for its tigers and some of the tigers like Macchli,
Ustad, Sundari, Bina, Romeo, Laila, Dollar, Zalim, have become legendary and
famous for the period of their rule.
Ranthambore National Park is
famous not only for tigers it is host to a number of enchanting mammals. On a
tiger safari, you can find leopards, sloth bears, deer, Nilgai, langur monkeys,
rhesus macaque, wild boar, wild dogs, and more. There are more than two hundred
and fifty avian species that make the park their home.
The park is situated near Sawai
Madhopur township at a distance of 14 km. Sawai Madhopur is 175 km from Jaipur the capital city
of the State of Rajasthan in India. Jaipur is well connected to New Delhi by,
rail, road, and air.
A number of hotels are situated
in Sawai Madhopur for accommodation. Ranthambore National Park is famous not only for tigers but it is hosting a
number of enchanting mammals. On a tiger safari, you can find leopards, sloth
bears, deer, Nilgai, langur monkeys, rhesus macaque, wild boar, wild dogs, and
more. There are more than two hundred and fifty avian species that make the
park their home.
The park is situated near Sawai Madhopur
township at a distance of 14 km. Sawai Madhopur is 175 km from
Jaipur the capital city of the State of Rajasthan in India. Jaipur is well
connected to New Delhi by, rail, road, and air.
A number of hotels are situated
in Sawai Madhopur for accommodation. The hotels range from budget lodges to
high-end hotels. For enjoying a tiger safari at Ranthambore a safari permit is a must. Along with the permit a zone is allotted in the tourism area. You have to keep to the zone.' Remember to book
the permit in advance. The rides are conducted two times a day one in the morning and the other in the evening. The safari excursions are conducted on open jeeps and canters.
Seooni Hills! Kipling referred to
this mountain range in Satpuras as the abode of human-like creatures he penned
so vividly in his book "The Jungle Book". These hills now comprise
Pench National Park and the tiger reserve. Kipling's esoteric emotions can be
well understood once you experience the panoramic grandeur of these mixed
forests. Hardwood comprising tall trees like teak and its associates dominate
the tiger landscape.Mowgli is no more,
but you see thousands in the villages around living in harmony with the
wilderness around.
Tiger Safari Photo It is here at Seooni Hills that
Mowgli the wolf child was born and reared by the wolves. He was first
discovered by Lt.Moor of the British Army in 1800 AD. The child was reared by
his foster parents - a pair of wolves who led the pack. He virtually existed as
a naked hunting human among the canids.
Elephant Safari
Except for Sher Khan with a
propensity to kill humans, especially Mowgli, the rest of the animals had
become extremely possessive of the human child living among the wolf.Despite all the myths and depictions in
shikar tales, Sher Khan is no more a bloodthirsty human killer in this esoteric
land. He is under the aegis of Project Tiger a program designed to save the big
cats of India. He is the pride of India as the National Animal.
Tiger Conservation Story
A country steeped deep in
conservation ethos since the Vedic Times paradoxically managed to lose 90% of
forest land and the tiger. Although the country lived with roots disabled by
the invaders and foreign rulers still respects all life forms. Nevertheless,
the Royal elites with priestly invocations were also responsible for the
massacre of the tigers in India.
Barely 1400 tigers survived the onslaught of
the hunters and poachers in the seventies whence the Project Tiger was
launched. The merciless onslaught on wildlife was ongoing even after
independence. Fortunately, India managed to stem the rot thanks to The Wildlife
Protection Act of 1972. Fast-spreading
agriculture, an imperative to feed teeming millions ravaged most of the
ecosystems in the country. This impacted the very existence of the tiger in
India but thankfully Project Tiger was launched in the year 1973. The
notification of protected areas happened with the inviolate core. The core was
a blessing in disguise for the beleaguered species as they could breed in
complete privacy devoid of human interference. Only 20% of the core is open to
regulated tourism and the big cats are flourishing in the zones.
Pench National Park
Today you explore Pench
Wilderness by booking a tiger safari on the jeep in this Indian paradise. If
your imagination surpasses Kipling's then you will see living creatures
everywhere. They are like humans perhaps more gentle and kind. Do not forget a
pat on Mowgli's back in the nearby village and say "Hello" to the
wolves as you come across the pack. Remember to book the safari permit in advance. Vehicle entry is limited in the tourism zones. You can book online at MPOnline Portal belong to Madhya Pradesh Government in India.
Uday has worked as a naturalist and loves to write about tigers and other wildlife forms. He also provides SEO Services and Content for Digital Marketing. He can be contacted at :
For regular visitors to
Bandhavgarh appears to be pristine forests and grasslands but if you notice the
niche habitats it will create a liking for the National Park. Niche habitats
bring a deeper understanding of the Bandhavgarh ecosystem works.On my tiger safaris, I always keep an eye on
unique intrigue. These niche habitats add to the charismatic beauty of the
park.
Sidha Baba
In the Chakradhara swampy meadow,
the holy site of Lord Shiva Lingam is first to greet you it is called Sidh
Baba. This is the frequented by the tigers on the hunt favored by the slush
created. Tourists and guides often stop
here to pray to Shiva. The Shiva lingam dates back 2000 years and is perhaps as
old as the fort at the top.
Chakradhara Meadow
Chkradhara is a swampy grassland
and is close to Charanganga River this is the finest example of a marshy
meadow. The swamp grassland is frequented by the prey species which are often
hunted by the hungry tigers here. This offers an ideal moment to film or
photograph the hunted and the hunter encounters. There is a stream at one side
of the grassland which is the rivulet that is perennial and the big cats come
to rest here in the cool shade in the hot summer.
Gopalpur Pond
If you wish to spot water and shore
birds This is an ideal place and you can also watch the Palearctic migrants
that land here in the winter. This is a favorite pond for the big cats during
the hot summer and they come to rest here. Many big cats and other wild animals
have made Gopalpur pond their regular haunt. You can see interesting wildlife
if you wait here silently.
Badi Gufa – The Big Cave
For bat lovers, this is the best
multi-chambered cave. you can see the Brahmi script etched on the walls of the
cave that acted as court chambers in the 10th Century AD. The walls contain a
colony of bats hanging upside down as they usually do. The cave is grilled so
wild animals do not enter.
Sesh Shayya
The reclining idol of Lord Vishnu
is carved out of an igneous rock that is 20 feet long. The pool on the right is
inundated by trickles from the mountain River Charanganga that seep downs from
Bandhavgarh Hill. The surrounding canopy comprises dense thickets of shrubs and
is an ideal breeding ground for the big cats.
Ketkiya Breaks (Aromatic Kewara)
The aromatic Kewara plants have a
distinct niche habitat. The tall stands of Arjun and Jamun Trees act as shade
from the Sun and encourage the growth of the shrubs.
Bhitari Bah Niche Habitat
Fed by Bhitari rivulet the slush
formation is supported by grass and a thicket of dense herbs. The niche is
supported by tall trees. The d grassland
is preferred by the herbivores to forage giving ample opportunity for big cats
to hunt. This spot is frequented by herbivores and big cats hide in the tickets
to hunt for them.
Sita Mandap (Stone Arch)
The arch is a unique geological
formation due to erosions under which water flows. A number of rock and cave
formations give the place a unique importance. Though closed to visitors one
can look down from the top to sight the big cats arriving here to drink. This
tigers inhabit is inaccessible to tourists.
Bandhavgarh National Park abounds
in niche habitats throughout the park. An extensive survey of Bandhavgarh could
result in amazing finds. The formation of Bandhavgarh National Park and its
declaration as a protected area under the wildlife protection act 1972 has been
a big boon.
All the wonderful geologic
formations add to make tiger safari interesting and exciting. One must visit
the park on safari. Please remember to book the safari permit online before you
arrive. Bandhavgarh can be reached from
Jabalpur Airport after driving 170 kilometers.
==========================
Uday has worked as a naturalist and loves to write about tigers and other wildlife forms. He also provides SEO Services and Content for Digital Marketing. He can be contacted at :
There is a huge assemblage of the tribal at the shrine of Taru, a legendary figure who sacrificed his life fighting a tiger. The assemblage at the shrine takes place during the Hindu month of Pausha. The shrine lies under a large tree at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) and is venerated by one and all.
Photo Tadoba Tiger Reserve
The reserve was once ruled by the Gond Tribal worshippers of Lord Shiva and local deities. Like all indigenous people's inclination for nature, nature worship is hence common among the tribal, but it is based on sound logic and promotes nature conservation.
For eons, since humans arrived or evolved on Earth, the locals have been living at Tadoba in perfect harmony with the tigers and other wild inhabitants. Man-animal conflict in tiger habitats of India is minimal and on most occasions accidental or due to rare cases of a mental aberration among wild animals.
Humans are injured or killed but the incidences are far less or negligible when compared with any other cause of death. At Tadoba humanity has engulfed the ecosystem, and there are frequent cases of infringement bringing the animals and man too close for comfort. However, the tourists are completely safe and can enjoy the tiger landscape on safari holidays and go back unscathed. Ha!
Tadoba Tiger Landscape (TATR) in Chaimur Hills
TATR is an amalgamation of the Tadoba and Andhari forests near Chandrapur District in the State of Maharashtra. The Andhari River (Wainganga Basin) is the lifeline of the ecosystem along with many other wetlands. A large Tadoba Lake separates the forests from the farmlands in the southwest acting as a natural wall of protection from human interference.
The National Park is also a tiger reserve under Project Tiger a program to save the endangered big cats. But along with the conservation of the big cats, the ecosystem as a whole and all wild animals in a particular benefit the most. The area of the reserve is 625 sq. km plus, but a large extent of surrounding dense forests and scrub holds incredible wildlife and equally good sighting of tigers and leopards takes place outside the core.
The tropical dry deciduous forests create a magical tapestry of green in the tiger landscape. Unlike Kanha and Bandhavgarh, Sal does not dominate here being a mixed forest, but Saj and its associates are found in abundance in areas with thick crown cover besides bamboo and grasslands. Harwood Teak dominates, but other species found here are semal, dhawa, bija, jamun, tendu, tinsa, ber, pipal, banyan, mahua, hirda, gurar, salai, arjun, palas and karaya gum to name a few.
One of the notable floral elements found here is kach katchauli a climber that grows extensively in the park. It is used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Tiger Biodiversity Jewel at TATR
Tiger! Well, for the uninitiated the mention always slithers down from fables, poems, songs, fictional stories, hunting books, myths, and lore. Projected as an oversized predator with huge claws, deadly long canines, and a nasty roar Grrrrrrr, the animal is also associated with magical power and unmatchable strength. We see it as a deadly man-killer or man-eater always after human blood. Shikaris or hunters always justified the mass killing of this predator on the basis described above.
Nothing stands far from the truth. The tiger is an apex predator part of forest and grassland ecosystems in India. It is a tertial carnivore along with the leopard and at some places like Nauradehi Tiger Reserve with the wolf. It is extremely wary of humans and in my experience frightened to the core.
We are not in the food chain of this apex predator excluded by the fright of the two-legged merciless creature that walks erect for ages. In preserves like Tadoba, a robust prey base is enough for the big cat to subsist on. All reserves in India focus on the prey base so large numbers of these predators can survive and live for eternity.
Tiger at Tadoba
The prey base inhabiting the Tadoba is as follows;
Sambar
Chital
Chausingha
Barking Deer
Wild Boars
Nilgai
Marsh Crocodile
Hanuman or Gray Langur
Rhesus Macaque
Porcupine
Civets
Mongoose
Wild Dog (Co-predator)
Leopard (Co-predator)
Jackal (Co-predator)
Fox (Co-predator)
The last few can hardly be terms as prey base, but the big cats kill all life that moves. I have seen them chewing grass and eating sand probably to aid in digestion or to fulfill mineral deficiency. With such a large prey base being conserved in India, man-killing is accidental or as described a rare instance of mental aberration.
With over a hundred and fifteen tigers, the reserve offers one of the best chances to see the big cats in wild natural surroundings. A trip to Melghat, Pench, and Kanha National Parks can be organized in a package tour for Tadoba Tiger Reserve or TATR. This will accord a greater wildlife experience and offer sightings of the Central Indian landscape.
Birds of Tadoba
More than two hundred species of avian can be found at the National Park. The number includes Pale Arctic Migrants that arrive in the winter.
Some of the noted species are:
Paradise Flycatcher
Peacock Pheasant
Orange-headed thrush,
Golden Backed Woodpecker
Indian pitta,
Crested treeswift,
Shama
Alexandrine Parakeet
White Rumped Vulture
Egyptian Vulture
Honey Buzzard
Crested Serpent Eagle
Crested Hawk Eagle
White Eyed Buzzard
Mottled Wood Owl
Barn Owl
Scops Owl
Jungle Owlet
Stone curlew
Bronze-winged jacana
Black-naped blue flycatcher
Brown Fish Owl
Brown Cheeked Fulvetta
Plum Headed Parakeet
Wire Tailed Swallow
Tickell's Flower Pecker
Thick Billed Flowerpecker
Hume's Warbler
Greenish Warbler
Paddyfield Warbler
Booted Warbler
Pipits
Larks
Nightjars
The list is endless please refer to a hand guide of Indian birds for reference to the region.
How to Explore Tadoba on Tiger Safari?
TATR comes under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra State Government. A permit is mandatory for excursions in the park. The safari can be booked online at: https://booking.mytadoba.org/safari/
Or you can request your package tour operator for Tadoba for game rides at Tadoba. He will also help organize your travel to the National Park. Please discuss all before making a tour.
It is advisable to book a safari much in advance as entry may be limited. It is also advisable to book accommodations and make travel arrangements after your safari has been booked.
Uday has worked as a naturalist and loves to write about tigers and other wildlife forms. He also provides SEO Services and Content for Digital Marketing. He can be contacted at :
Bandhavgarh National Park UNESCO Heritage Probable
The purpose of designating a reserve as a UNESCO Heritage Site is to highlight the conservation impetus, and sustainable usage of natural resources, and acknowledge the harmonious existence of humanity in the surroundings.
In the year 2020, one of our tiger reserves at Panna was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve. Though rightly placed in the global network of biospheres the buck should not stop here. Another of our amazing tiger reserves Bandhavgarh National Park also situated in Madhya Pradesh is deserving the same status. The 1500 sq. km reserve holds more than eighty tigers and is home to enchanting Central Indian mammalian and reptilian species. More than 250 avian species are found here.
Under the aegis of Project Tiger, Bandhavgarh as a biodiversity hub has an excellent record of tiger conservation in India. The ecosystem was declared a National Park in the year 1968 and subsequently declared a tiger reserve in the year 1993. The erstwhile hunting reserve of the Maharajahs of Rewa is one of the most popular tiger landscapes in India. Not only famous for the tiger the reserve encapsulates an amazing storehouse of architectural remains that depict Hinduism in India.
A fragmented corridor exists between Sanjay Dubri National Park and Bandhavgarh. The former is a reserve where the World's first and only white tiger was discovered by the Maharajah of Rewa. It is one hours drive by road.
Story of Ancient Tribal Civilization
The central structure is the fort complex with the main edifice in complete ruins. Yes, the fort has crumbled with the passage of time to naught. Much remains in the complex to intrigue and enchant visitors. Unfortunately, the fort has no archeological status of historical worth since a visit to the fort complex is barred due to rules that govern excursions or safari in the reserve.
No effort has been made to accord the status of a separate entity to the historical fort that is a place of religious significance as well for the Hindus. Visitors are not allowed here but on some religious occasions, Hindus are allowed to trek on foot to the fort's confines. It is a strenuous trek of 11 km on a rugged jungle road inhabited by tigers.
From the foothill of the Bandhavgarh Mountain (800 MSL), a steep climb takes visitors on a jeep to Sesh Shaiyaa or reclining Vishnu. A reclining idol carved out of igneous rocks situated amongst a fairy pool surrounded by a grove is a mesmerizing spectacle. A place where battle-worn soldiers on horseback came to rest under the cool shade. Even in hot summers, the place remains cool and shady. The fort as the name suggests is a gift by Lord Rama to brother Laxman. A Ram Laxman Janki Temple is situated on the tabletop and is manned by a priest who arrives here almost every day to pray.
Blue Bull
From Shesh Shaiyya the climb to the fort complex on Bandhavgarh Hill is steep and exhausting, but thankfully short. Amidst the dense vegetation, a rugged jungle road leads to the top. The access is through a massive wooden gate with a huge metal lock. Hence the name of the range is TALA (Lock). The arched gateway leads to zoomorphic idols of Lord Vishnu among them most captivating is the one looming tall on the precipice. The time comes to a standstill here and the dazzling drop is mesmerizing, it offers a magnificent view of the panoramic reserve. A number of zoomorphic idols are scattered all around beside remains of small domed chattris, temples, gateways, and small structures. The most prominent are the twelve man-made reservoirs that surround the tribal fort which is in complete ruins. The space all around though engulfed by vegetation is an archeological treasure. The expanse of the tabletop is said to be 4 km square and comprises grasslands that harbor tigers and all wild animals found in the park. In Central India, the Bandhavgarh Hill fort complex is one of the most esoteric places and not to be missed. The National Park is home to a number of historic and religious relics scattered all along with the forests besides man-made caves, stables, courtrooms, and small domed cenotaphs.
The Land of the Tiger
The land of the tiger comprises dense SAL, mixed forests, and mountain rivers that snake through marshy grasslands in the plains. The unique feature of the destination is the thirty-two hillocks with bamboo-covered slopes and bare or scarred at places on the descent as well. The maze of inaccessible hillocks and glens has proven to be an ideal place for the big cats to breed. No wonder the reserve is one of the most picturesque in India and saturated with tigers. Recent conservation measure has been the remarkable comeback of wild cattle gaur by translocation which had become extinct some time back to due disease.
While the tiger is the apex predator in the food chain, the conservation measures gave a lease of life to all endangered species, and have preserved the ecosystem. For wildlife enthusiasts and botanists the microforms of life dwelling in niche habitats are a matter of intense study. The destination with millions of trees and vegetation creates an environmental equilibrium and helps in minimizing carbon footprint. The reserve is a fine example of sustainable resource management with responsible guidelines being followed by the department, rural habitation, and the hotel industry alike.
A lot of ecodevelopment work is being carried out by the forest department. Community initiative by some resorts is reducing man-animal conflict besides harmonizing wild animal existence with humans. While the core is completely inviolate the buffer is a fine example of the coexistence of humans with the surrounding wilderness.
Bandhavgarh is already in the international limelight but a UNESCO status will boost conservation measures, and community initiatives. The status will draw crucial revenue for conservation by attracting a greater number of visitors.
Visitors to Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh receives thousands of overseas and domestic visitors every year. It is one of the preferred destinations for wildlife documentary makers besides photographers., researchers, naturalists, and wildlife enthusiasts. It is a major contributor to foreign exchange as well as receiving money for conservation.
The core area of the preserve is 716 sq. km and twenty percent is reserved for tourism. Safaris are available only to permit holders in the core and the buffer area. The excursions and the visit to the interpretation centers are the best means of exploring and learning about charismatic biodiversity and how the ecosystem functions.
The best way to reach the park is from Jabalpur Airport which is at four hours drive. Umaria railways station is at a distance of 32 km and is connected to Jabalpur. Road connectivity via bus and car is excellent and the destination can be accessed from Kanha National Park and Khajuraho Temples.
Uday Freelances as Naturalist in Central India. He is an avid birder and tiger enthusiast. He blogs on tigers, wildlife, and birds. He also writes on the environment and conservation.
Uday also provides SEO Services and Website Content in English. He teaches Digital Marketing in Jabalpur in Summer Holidays.--------Contact: pateluday90@hotmail.com09755089323
Nowhere is the onslaught of the developmental spree more apparent than against remaining small green pockets of towns and cities. These are mini-ecosystems that act to preserve and provide fresh air and water, and hence are invaluable assets in preserved form.
Most such green patches that still survive to this day have been fortunate enough to escape the wrath of concretization due to remote placement or exclusivity. Though much reduced in size and composition these are invaluable assets for rapidly expanding towns and cities of India.
Easy Acquisition of Invaluable Greens
It is ironic that even in these times of suffering from imminent ecological failure and climate change, natural places are not being spared. On the contrary, they are under intense scrutiny as lucrative developmental prospects - ready for concretization perhaps due to ease of acquisition? Another reason that seems apparent and facilitates concretization is the lack of humanity or rather the ubiquitous public ownership which makes acquisition an easier prospect.
For developers, the eyes are always on these reclusive patches of vacant lands irrespective of their natural worth to the cities. But this should not apply to green corridors and patches they should be preserved for eternity. It is nigh impossible to regenerate natural forests after destruction.
Save Dumna Plateau & Ecology
Take Dumna for example. A much-neglected elevated green plateau of Jabalpur which holds an airport built during the British Era and subsequently expanded, it is now a subject of intense scrutiny. As a matter of pride, the ecosystem stands as a fine model of urban conservation and displays impressive synergy between man and the surrounding wilderness, all this will be destroyed if urban projects devastate the home of other life forms.
These forests border the city confines and are home to Dumna Nature Reserve with an enclosed area of 1800 acres. It is well protected and receives a large number of visitors every year. The reserve is home to a large population of spotted deer, wild boars, jungle cats, jackals, foxes, and reptiles including marsh crocodiles, and other small mammals most of which are nocturnal. But please note the forests expand far beyond the reserve and form a corridor. The terrestrial diversity comprises mixed forests, grasslands, herbs, shrubs, and scrub each invaluable on its own, and together, in this fragile ecosystem.
The crocodiles find shelter in the large catchment of Khandari Reservoir within the reserve that supplies potable water to the city. Few leopards and perhaps hyenas survive within and outside the reserve. The ecological niche spreads out beyond the confines of the Nature Reserve and comprises invaluable species of flora and fauna, it is visited by avian migrants from the Palearctic and the Himalayas as well.
The forests in Jabalpur's outskirts are interconnected and act as corridors for migration for the diminishing wilderness that still survives. The last remaining patch of green in Jabalpur is least capable of taking on the projects slated, being an ecologically sensitive area with a preservation history that dates back more than 150 years. The forests support a number of water bodies in the surroundings neighboring the villages.
Planned Projects in A Leopard Habitat
The plan for a man-made tiger safari in the nature park would have wreaked havoc on the floral elements and the fauna in the nature reserve, and the visitor numbers would have been stressful on this ecosystem. Thankfully as it appears, it is nowhere in the picture now perhaps due to litigation that ensued? A number of PIL have been filed in Jabalpur High Court against the developmental spree in this ecologically sensitive area.
The establishment of IITGM on 100 acres was the first alarm that set in among the nature lovers of Jabalpur, a number of citizens who are sizeable and active in conservation initiatives. The establishment of IITGM is encroachment into natural land, the barbed wire wall prevents the free movement of wild animals besides enhancing prospects of man-animal conflict.
Besides IITGM a number of projects are slated here which is not at all desired keeping the nature of the land in consideration. From amusement parks, and public offices to a five-star hotel all bode ill for one of the last remaining pieces of natural land in the town. Wise counsel should prevail to prevent this concretization and the projects should be planned elsewhere since there is no dearth of vacant land on the outskirts.
Although the reserve was subject to exploitation in earlier times, the status has accorded some much-needed protection. Spread all around the protected area are forests mostly mixed with scattered patches of bamboo, much exploited and ravaged in the past. The network thus forms a greater ecosystem that once flourished in totality but as of now is badly fragmented but still invaluable for climate stability and for humanity.
Following the establishment of IITGM at Dumna a large number of projects are slated in this invaluable eco-niche one of the few remaining lungs of the city. The overzealous developmental zeal which is clearly evident in this beleaguered urbanity that is Jabalpur is not leaving this ecosystem a mini patch of green unscathed.
The article does not target a particular dispensation, but it urges the planners' future and present to avoid places with biodiversity however small that which have ecological importance. Hence the plea is to leave Dumna untouched and prevent the scars that concretization will eventually bring in.
Dumna Source of Potable Water & Fresh Air
By urbanizing Dumna, one of the last remaining green patches we are sure to lose the green lungs that the city strives for in times of intense pollution and hectic biotic activities. The hills do not have the capacity to bear the reckless establishment of structures that will come up eventually under the projects that are slated to target this valuable eco-niche.
Khandari Dam is a wetland ecosystem that sustains fast-vanishing terrestrial and aquatic species in and around Jabalpur. It is a valuable source of water for the town, though not under direct threat destruction of the surrounding biome would have a negative impact on the catchment area.
Uday works as a freelance naturalist and loves to write on related issues. He also provides SEO and content writing services. He runs classes on digital marketing in his home town Jabalpur.
The singsong was like a magical utterance! We had tracked this big cat when an alarmed rhesus macaque cried out loud and was frequent.
All I could see were buttocks dancing in front of me as he uttered! He was leaning on the windshield of the open jeep pointing his ah towards me. I stood up! Subash handed me the binoculars, which I forwarded to Mr. Neelash Agarwal the owner of Indiafootprints Adventure & Courtyard House Kanha.
I could see clearly the blotch of white against the cryptic green of disheveled grass.
"The tiger is looking straight at us," Neelesh Bhai whispered barely able to conceal his excitement.
We were inside Sanjay National Park and tiger reserve in the Seedhi District of Madhya Pradesh. This was an exploratory visit for Indiafootprints Tours and to establish a new property like Courtyard House Kanha.
Our first safari was in the company of Seedhi Naturalist Subash Singh and HomebyBanas owner Ajeet Mishra. The energetic young lads did not falter in introducing the tiger reserve to us as we started the Home Stay. This tiger called T5 was a middle-aged male in his prime and quite handsome. He was wary of us and thus got up walked over a ridge and then came down to rest a little distance away. This was at Mandova at the Dubri Zone.
Watch Tower
Banas Forest River
The long river stretch between tropical forests bordered by the sandy beach had us gasping for breath literarily speaking. Like a necklace, it inundates the reserve from all sides and connects perennial streams within the reserve creating an invaluable life support system.
Banas River along with Son River forms a large catchment in this region and nurtures tropical moist deciduous forests which stretch through to Chhattisgarh State bordering East. The waterway is clean, unpolluted by industrial effluents, and pristine. Gharial, the endangered crocodile species is found in Son River at a distance of hundred kilometers.
Banas River SDTR
The river intersects the National Park creating an enigmatic splendor and panoramic excellence that makes safaris in the park a captivating experience. The place is a promising destination connected by good roads and major towns. It is ideal for animal and bird-watching holidays in Central India.
SDTR ForestScape
I stood on the bridge to capture images of this panoramic spread. Tiger reserve engulfing pristine ecosystems always creates a mesmerizing experience and the tigers within add to it all to make your journey memorable. In some places, ancient ideological structures narrate India's extensive Hindu past and add an esoteric charm to the destinations. The tribal excelled in creating Hindu temples and idols out of rocky outcrops and igneous slabs....we will search for them on our next visit.
Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve - A Paradise Found
Forest & Tiger
A long stretch of forest connected with Bandhavgarh National Park and Guru Ghasidas Wildlife Sanctuary in the neighboring state of Chattisgarh Sanjay Dubri is a paradise found. Tigers are flourishing here but a big gap exists. There are estimated to be around twenty-plus big cats here, and this is anybody's guess. Our safari in the Dubri Zone resulted in a tiger sighting on the first visit and only one species of deer namely Chital, wild boar, rhesus macaque, Hanuman langur, and Nilgai Antelope. Tiger sighting seems to be good here with a ratio of one sighting in four safaris. The sloth bear is frequently seen here.
Gate SDTR
The jungle roads were full of pug marks and we heard big cats in one place. There are supposed to be three breeding females one in Dubri Zone. Females from ensuing litter are about little over two years and maybe more, and reaching breeding age. They have not seen cubs yet.
The habitat in the core is a complete ecosystem with an amazing network of perennial streams as per the naturalist and homestay owner. We came across many water bodies and they looked promising enough to face the extreme heat of summer.
The core stretches for over eight hundred square kilometers and is riddled with human intrusions. Though admirable work is being done at Sanjay Dubri the intractable local lords are stemming the process.
For those who will put a question mark here, let me tell you that tigers and other life form need inviolate areas to survive. Human onslaught on our forest ecosystems does not take long to fathom after one visit to most of our tiger reserves.
This idea of man animal coexistence is chimerical and shaped mostly by human greed leaving no space for precious wilderness. If we do not relent our nextgen will pay the price of living in isolation.
Tiger is gaining a foothold again in India and the inviolate protected areas are indispensable for its survival.
Forest in Core
Limited Entry
Unfortunately, the human hold is visible everywhere and with only nine vehicles allowed in one ride, there seems to be no scope for future ecotourism ventures here. If you visit Kanha and Bandhavgarh you will see how robust the local economy is with jobs for local communities and small business opportunities and empowerment of the population as a whole.
Long hidden from the public gaze, an open approach here will be helpful in addressing our unemployment problem. An ecotourism-friendly policy that keeps the sanctity of this ecosystem in mind and takes vulnerable species' survival into account need not be constricting depriving people of valuable inheritance benefits. Our parks depend much upon the humanity around for preservation, and the people can be the best guardians if they see a future as stakeholders here.
History - White Tiger - Mohun
The white tiger was found here along with normal-colored cubs within the confines of Sanjay National Park. This was brought to the notice of then Maharajah of Rewa HH Martand Singhji a hunter-turned-conservationist, he immediately took the orphaned cubs in his care at Govindgarh Fort. The white tiger cub survived and was named Mohun (a captivating one in Hindi). Mohun can be seen in the preserved form at Maharani Kothi at Tala in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. All white tigers survive in captivity all over the World and carry the genes of Mohun.. for only one white tiger carrying this recessive gene was ever found in the wild...
Seedhi was in the jurisdiction of Maharajahs of Rewa and was famed for its big cats. The Maharajahs have built a Kothi here which has been taken over by the Government. Remains of hides are found scattered in the forests. HH Martand Singhji was very popular among his subjects and in later life, he focused on getting rid of troublesome big cats.
Subash Singh Naturalist
Enthusiasm bubbles over all his countenance and the rotund gait are hardly suggestive of a man of the wilderness look. But there he is and conducts his discourses on nature very well. He was enthusiastic about meeting us and accompanied us on the wildlife safari at Sanjay Tiger Reserve. He is well-versed in ornithology and loves his job. He has penned a book on the reserve and it is a valuable resource.
Ajit Mishra - Owner HomebyBanas
The name HomebyBanas is a suggestion by Neelesh Bhai the real name is Shri Sai Resort. We suggested he keep the Lord in his heart and soul and accord a more ecotourism-friendly name.
The homestay location cannot be better for a wilderness resort. It is one of the best situations for a wildlife resort I have ever come across. Right next to an enviable stretch of Banas River you can take a nature walk on the beach in the company of big cats. The spot is ideal for high tea and picnic or just to take a leisurely walk. Serenity and peace rule here.
The three-room structure is neat, spacious, and well-appointed with climate control (AC) and an attached bathroom. A garden in the front, forest onside, what more does a person on safari holiday can expect. The accommodation serves local varieties of cuisine often cooked on firewood.
Yes, the place is homely pleasing, affordable, and worth a stay if you are happy with simple surroundings and no star appeal. Ajeet Mishra the owner is a wildlife enthusiast and loves his business. We received much cooperation from him. He lives in Seedhi Town an hour's drive away.
How to Reach?
Sanjay Tiger Reserve is well connected with Benaras and Allahabad two major UP towns with air connectivity. The distance is approximately 250 km by road. The reserve is an hour's drive from Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Umaria District.
The route we followed: Jabalpur Airport to Kundum - Shahpura - Umaria Town - Tala - Beohari - STR. The drive took us four hours non-stop through a smooth road all along.
Vanishing Ecosystems
Can humans take over any piece of land in India to acquiesce to our developmental and urbanization goals? Will the highest courts in India and the ministries stamp their foot down to see that development should not hinder?
Should we repeat after a few decades because development is not contemporary anymore and ravage and ravage till all other lifeforms cannot survive except some in zoos, herbariums, and botanical gardens?
Are we going to see the naked face of humanity and contend with evolving medical resources, artificial environmental dromes, and organized manicured floral landscapes?
Yes, humanity will survive till armageddon, and few will escape to another kingdom in celestial oblivion to continue to ravage again and again till the whole Universe is lost. Nauradehi Tigers
It started with Nauradehi? Barely aged eleven, I was witness to a huge male tiger being skinned right on my porch. My first tiger sighting was a dead one. I could see the cobbler assiduously collect fat. "This is good for joint pains," he explained to us without any expression on his countenance.
The hero stood around nearby devouring accolades. "I shot him sitting on a bullock cart - point blank. Could see his face lit up by the moonlight, and I aimed right without fear and trepidation."
He was from Mumbai a rich man who came every year for the hunt to Jabalpur along with the entourage of the Sahibs. They shot sloth bears, and sambars and spotted deer from amongst a fast-depleting lot of wild species in India. For a paltry sum in rupees as my father many times lamented.
Tiger By Uday Patel
The accolades continued. Brilliant! I too was admiring the brave hunter. He got rid of the vermin - a bloodthirsty beast. It took me a decade to realize what grave error was being committed. This was in independent India, the Sahibs had left, and the barbaric Mughal invaders had been vanquished a long time back. This was us the Brown Sahibs. We took over immaculately from where they had left.
Fox
The plunder was unprecedented, and forests and grasslands were being destroyed at a rapid pace. The burgeoning population needed food to be cultivated on thousands of acres, and there was no check on plunder and ravage of our ever-depleting ecosystems.
There were no tigers left in Nauradehi and the surrounding regions. All the remaining big cats had been shot dead not only by the Sahibs but by anyone with clout. Today Nauradehi the kingdom of cats is devoid. No tiger no leopard. The wolf rules the roost! It is the indicator species.
Waterbody
A few years back a lady DFO had come across a tigress with cubs and recently a tigress was found dead because of old age. It is conjectured that big cats somehow cross over to Nauradehi from the nearby Panna Tiger Reserve at a distance of 250+ km. Well, it is anybody's guess since there are inaccessible quarters in this forest itself for animals to hide and breed.
Recently a pair of tigers were relocated here in order to kick-start the process. If the predators breed successfully the cats may permanently find heaven in Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary again. Situated near Jabalpur City in MP the distance is about 100 km. The area is about 1000 + sq. km and comprises of mixed forests and pockets of the grassland ecosystem. The undulating landscape actually encompasses more than 5000 sq. km of tiger habitat but the crown cover may not be adequate.
Bengal Tiger - Uday Patel
Fauna & Cheetah Relocation Some of the key fauna found here are the nilgai, chital, sambar, barking and four-horned deer, black buck, tiger, sloth bear, and small predators jackal, fox, civet, porcupine, and mongoose. The leopard is conspicuous by its absence but sooner or later will find a place here thanks to the protection offered. There is a proposal to shift African cheetahs to the grasslands of Nauradehi but this at present is only in the news.
Crocodiles and smooth Indian otters, turtles, and tortoises can be found in the river systems and the water bodies of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is a heaven for avian species and delightful prospects await the birders. No extensive survey has been carried out but the specific number may be more than 200.
There are more than 60 villages in and around the WLS and plans are to shift them outside...some of them have already been shifted as per the news. Relocation is badly desired here since humans have occupied space reserved for other life forms and some are a big nuisance. Albeit under control, pilferage, and wood logging is still underway. I hope the relocation will solve the problem to a great extent. A lot of constructive work has been done by the forest department here. For those interested in visiting Nauradehi can contact DFO office at Sagar at a distance of eighty km. There is a permit required for wildlife safaris for a charge. One has to organise the trip usually from Jabalpur airport or railhead. An open jeep is the best recourse on the rough jungle roads. There are two rest houses for accommodation but need prior reservation. It is good to carry lot of provisions as well.
Marsh Crocodile
Early morning and evening drives could be planned from Jabalpur in Central India. The jungle is worth exploring hence organize at least two or three safaris. Jabalpur is a conduit for other tiger reserves like Kanha and Bandhavgarh hence Nauradehi WLS could be included in a circuit. Jabalpur accommodation is very good so there should be no problem with a stay here.
