Kanger Valley National Park

Kanger Valley (Kangerghati) National Park, 30 km south-east of Jagdalpur (headquarter of Bastar) is located near the Kholaba River in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh State. One of the densest forests areas in India, it is located amidst the 34 km long and scenic Kanger Valley, a Biosphere Reserve. Established as a National Park in 1982 under Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, it covers an area of approximately 200 sq km. 

Villages such as Netanar, Milkulwada and Nangalsar (north) , Kakalgur and Kandanar (south) , and Tirathgarh, Chindawada, Pakhnar, Bispur and Munaga (west) are falls in this National Park. The Park derives it name from Kanger River which flows through it. The park is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers, researchers and anthropologists (the park has a sizeable tribal population).

Flora

Comprises mainly of hilly terrain, it is one of the finest and picturesque national parks in India. Sal, Teak and Bamboo trees are in predominance at the National Park.  Kanger Valley is the only region in the Peninsular India where one of the last surviving virgin and untouched forests still left. 

Fauna

The wildlife includes Tigers, Leopards, Mouse Deer, Wild Cat, Chital, Sambar, Barking Deer, Jackals, Wild Pig, Langurs, Otter, Civet, Rhesus Macaque, Sloth Bear, Flying Squirrel, Wild Boar, Striped Hyena, Rabbits, Pythons, Cobra, Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Python, Cobra and Crocodile. The avian fauna at the Park includes Hill Myna, Spotted Owlet, Red Jungle Fowls, Racket-tailed Drongos, Peacocks, Parrots, Steppe Eagles, Red Spur Fall, Phakta, Bhura Teeter, Tree Pie and Heron among many others.

Tourist Attractions of Kanger Valley National Park

Besides its rich flora and fauna, there are many tourist attractions inside the park such as the Kutamsar Caves, Kailash Caves, Dandak Caves and Tiratgarh Waterfalls.

Tirathgarh Fall 

Also called as 'Milky Fall' because of its white colour it looks like milk is falling. Tirathgarh is surrounded by greenery and there are steps provided to reach the falls. The surrounding areas makes this as a good picnic spot.

Kutumsar (Kotamsar)

Known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations it provides nice panoramic view.  Approximately a depth of 215 ft and 1.5 km long, it is situated at an altitude of 560 meters.  Discovered in 1900, Kutumsar Cave is considered as one of the world's largest natural caves in Asia. It has five natural irregular chambers and several blind wells. Forest guards are available here for guidance. It's deepest zones are always filled with water so visitors are not allowed there. 

Kailash Gufa (Cave)

Located at top of mountain, Kailash Gufa is a dark caves with a narrow entrance. Named after a natural mark in the rock, located 30m from the entrance, which resembles the idol of Lord Shiva, it also has stalactite and stalagmite formations similar to Kutumsar cave. It was discovered in 1993, . There is a stalagmite formation in the shape of a Shivlinga at the end of this cave. It has big chambers and stones which produces musical sounds when struck by hand. TThere are guides available to assist the visitors.

Dandak Gufa

A beautiful cave similar to Kutumsar Cave. Here also one can see the stalactites and stalagmites in fantastic formations.

Bhainsa Darha

Surrounded by mountains with thick greenery from all sides, Bhainsa Darha is a beautiful lake. The watch tower is situated at Bhainsa Darha gives an awesome view of lake. Note : The forest has crocodiles so enter at your own risk.

Kanger Dhara

It is a beautiful waterfall lies on the Kanger River. The location of the falls in a salubrious setting makes it a good picnic spot. Nice small cascading falls, is an ideal to bath and enjoy.