Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar, India, spans 899 square kilometers of diverse habitats including tropical forests and grasslands. Named after sage Valmiki, it hosts Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, and over 250 bird species. Entry gates include Valmiki Nagar and Bankatti, offering jeep safaris and bird watching. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and community involvement to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Valmiki Tiger Reserve provides a serene environment for eco-tourism, showcasing Bihar's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage amidst the tranquil landscapes of the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands biome.
Bihar, East India
Gypsy / Jeep, Canter / Bus, Other (Elephant, Boat)
Valmikinagar Road
Morning, Evening
Jay Prakash Narayan Airport
Tigers, Sloth Bear, Leopard, Gaur, Hyena, Wild Dogs
2,000 - 3,000 Average Safari Price *
July, August, September
2,000 - 3,000 Average Safari Price
Safari Price depends on operators and services and may exceed the average price shown
Currently Closed
Core Zone Open
Buffer Zone Open
Valmiki Tiger Reserve, situated in Bihar, India, covers an expansive area of approximately 899 square kilometers in the West Champaran district. It is recognized for its rich biodiversity and serves as a crucial habitat for several endangered species.
The reserve is particularly renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, which are the apex predators in this ecosystem. Alongside tigers, Valmiki Tiger Reserve is home to other carnivores such as leopards, jungle cats, sloth bears, and Indian wild dogs. The herbivore population includes Indian elephants, spotted deer, sambar deer, nilgai, and several species of primates like langurs and rhesus macaques. This diverse array of wildlife thrives in the reserve's varied habitats, which range from tropical moist deciduous forests to grasslands and riverine ecosystems along the Gandak River.
Valmiki Tiger Reserve is also a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting a rich avian diversity with over 250 species recorded. The reserve supports a variety of birds including the majestic Sarus crane, Bengal florican, and numerous species of eagles, vultures, and waterfowl.
Conservation efforts at Valmiki Tiger Reserve are robust and multifaceted. They focus on habitat preservation, wildlife monitoring, and community engagement in sustainable livelihood practices. Measures include anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration initiatives, and promoting eco-tourism to ensure the protection of the reserve's natural resources while benefiting local communities.
In conclusion, Valmiki Tiger Reserve stands as a significant stronghold for wildlife conservation in Bihar, contributing to the preservation of India's natural heritage. Its diverse flora and fauna, coupled with effective conservation strategies, underscore its importance in global biodiversity conservation efforts. By maintaining a delicate balance between conservation and sustainable development, Valmiki Tiger Reserve continues to be a sanctuary for wildlife and a destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to experience the wonders of India's wilderness.
The reserve's vegetation includes tropical moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems along the Gandak River. Key tree species found here are sal, teak, semal, mahua, and bamboo. These forests provide vital habitats and food sources for the wildlife, contributing to the ecological balance of the region.
Valmiki Tiger Reserve is famed for its population of Bengal tigers, which are the apex predators in the reserve. Other carnivores include leopards, jungle cats, sloth bears, and Indian wild dogs. The herbivore community is diverse and includes Indian elephants, spotted deer, sambar deer, nilgai, and several species of primates like langurs and rhesus macaques. The presence of such a variety of wildlife indicates the health and robustness of the reserve's ecosystem. The reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting over 250 species of birds. This includes the endangered Sarus crane, Bengal florican, and a variety of eagles, vultures, and waterfowl that thrive in its wetlands and forested areas. The diverse avian fauna further enriches the biodiversity of Valmiki Tiger Reserve, offering enthusiasts and researchers ample opportunities for observation and study.
By Air The closest airport to Valmiki Tiger Reserve is the Jayprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna, approximately 289 km away. The Jayprakash Narayan International Airport is well-connected to major cities across India, making it a convenient choice for air travel. By Train • Nearby major railheads - • Patna Junction - 288 km • Valmiki Nagar Road Railway Station - 34 km • Gorakhpur Junction - 119 km • Muzaffarpur Junction - 236 km Valmiki Tiger Reserve is located along the Gorakhpur – Muzaffarpur (via Narkatiaganj) rail route. Travelers from major cities across the country can reach the sanctuary by taking direct trains. Additionally, daily or weekly trains are available from New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Dehradun, and Amritsar to reach Bagaha (for the western part of the sanctuary) and Narkatiaganj (for the central and eastern parts of the sanctuary). Muzaffarpur and Gorakhpur are the nearest major junctions that offer passenger/mail/express trains for Bagaha and Narkatiaganj. By Road Opting for a road trip from Patna is a viable option. The journey takes approximately 7 -8 hours, covering scenic landscapes and towns across 290 km. Hiring a private vehicle or taxi ensures flexibility and comfort during the road trip. Road Distances from significant cities to Valmiki Tiger Reserve 1. Lucknow - 407 km 2. Kushinagar - 96 km 3. Deoria - 135 km 4. Gorakhpur - 119 km 5. Ayodhya - 273 km 6. Patna - 290 km 7. Muzaffarpur - 238 km 8. Bettiah - 107 km