Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, situated in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh, India, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Established in 1975 and later designated as a Tiger Reserve in 2009 under the Project Tiger initiative, the reserve covers an expansive area of 914.591 square kilometers. It forms a significant part of the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, which spans over 3,835 square kilometers and includes parts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The reserve's topography is diverse, featuring a mix of sal and teak forests, bamboo groves, and grasslands, which create a vibrant habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and numerous water bodies, including the Maniyari River, which flows through the reserve, enhancing its ecological richness.

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, the apex predator of the region. Besides tigers, the reserve hosts a plethora of wildlife species, including leopards, Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, wild boars, and various species of deer such as chital, sambar, and barking deer. The avian diversity is equally impressive, with over 150 species of birds recorded, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

The reserve is also notable for its role in the conservation of endangered species and its efforts to maintain ecological balance. Conservation initiatives focus on habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement, ensuring the sustainable management of the reserve's resources.

For visitors, Achanakmar offers a range of eco-tourism activities, including guided safaris, birdwatching tours, and nature walks. These activities are designed to provide an immersive experience while minimizing human impact on the environment. The scenic beauty, combined with the thrill of spotting wildlife, makes Achanakmar Tiger Reserve a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Overall, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is not just a sanctuary for wildlife but also a critical area for ecological research and environmental education, contributing significantly to the conservation efforts in central India.

Flora

The reserve is a verdant tapestry of tropical moist deciduous forests, with a blend of Sal (Shorea robusta) and Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus) as the predominant species. Sal trees, towering majestically, form dense canopies that provide shelter and sustenance to numerous species. Bamboo groves, interspersed throughout the forest, add to the ecological diversity and serve as crucial resources for the local wildlife.

Among the trees, species like Teak (Tectona grandis), Saja (Terminalia tomentosa), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and Mahua (Madhuca indica) are also prevalent. These trees not only contribute to the region’s rich biodiversity but also play a significant role in the livelihoods of local communities, who depend on them for various forest products.

The undergrowth is dense with a variety of shrubs, herbs, and grasses, including medicinal plants like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), which are valued for their therapeutic properties.

Fauna

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is renowned for its impressive population of Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris), the apex predators that symbolize the reserve's conservation success. In addition to tigers, the reserve is home to Indian leopards (Panthera pardus fusca), Indian bison or gaur (Bos gaurus), and sloth bears (Melursus ursinus).

The herbivore population includes species such as sambar deer (Rusa unicolor), chital (Axis axis), and the Indian muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), which are critical prey for the reserve's carnivores.

The reserve is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 150 avian species recorded, including the Indian pitta (Pitta brachyura), crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela), and the Malabar pied hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus).

By Air:

Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Bilaspur Airport (Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport), located approximately 55 kilometers from the reserve.
Alternative Airports: You can also consider Raipur Airport (Swami Vivekananda Airport), about 175 kilometers away.
From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other available road transport services to reach the reserve.

By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: The closest major railway station is Bilaspur Junction, around 60 kilometers from the reserve.
After reaching the railway station, taxis and buses are available to take you to the reserve.

By Road:

From Bilaspur: The reserve is about 60 kilometers from Bilaspur. You can drive or hire a taxi. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Raipur: The reserve is around 175 kilometers from Raipur. The road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.
From other nearby cities: Well-connected roads lead to the reserve, and you can use state transport buses, private buses, or taxis to reach the destination.