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Nature & Landscapes

Valmiki Tiger Reserve

Bihar's only national park and tiger reserve, in West Champaran, bordering Nepal's Chitwan National Park.

Tall forest along a safari track in Valmiki Tiger Reserve
Photo: Indianroots5, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Valmiki National Park and Tiger Reserve covers about 898 square kilometres in West Champaran district. It is Bihar’s only national park and was the 18th tiger reserve declared in India.

The forest was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1978 and a national park in 1990. To the north it borders Nepal’s Chitwan National Park. The Gandak river forms the western boundary of the sanctuary and enters India at Valmikinagar.

Rivers, streams, swamps and grasslands run through the forest, which shelters tigers along with many other species.

Getting there

The reserve is in the far north-west of West Champaran district, around Valmikinagar on the Gandak river.

Visitor information

Entry, safaris and stays are regulated by the forest department and depend on the season. Check current rules before planning a trip.

Timings, fees and access can change. Please confirm with official sources before you travel.

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