Betla National Park, Jharkhand — India's only tiger reserve in Jharkhand. 226 sq km of forests with tigers, elephants & a 16th-century fort. Open October to June. Book safaris.
Attractions
Jeep Safari: Morning and evening jeep safaris through tiger and elephant territory — bookable at Betla gate
Old Palamu Fort: 16th-century Chero dynasty fort ruins inside the forest — mentioned in Tagore's 1882 travelogue 'Palamau'
New Palamu Fort: 17th-century extension with larger ramparts and riverside views along the Koel River
Koel River Trail: Nature walk along riverbank — prime elephant sighting and birdwatching corridor inside the reserve
Kamaldah Talab: Lotus-filled pond inside the reserve — historically where the Chero queen used to bathe