A signboard outside the Betla National Park proclaimed ‘ B for Bison, E for Elephant, T for Tiger, L for Leopard, A for Antelope,’ clearly spelling out what Betla had in store for its visitor. Although not much illustrious like Jim Corbett or Kaziranga National Park but Betla has the unique distinction of being the site for the first tiger census in the world in 1932, that paved way for the Palamau forests to be notified as a wildlife preserve. By 1974, it became one of the earliest tiger reserves under Project Tiger. Littered with forts and monuments of the Chero kings and abundant sal, Betla is motley of Jim Corbett and Ranthambore.

The drive from Netarhat to Betla cuts through the fields of paddy like a scythe in long sweeping arcs. Just before the forest checkpost at Baresand, a 2 km diversion leads to the scenic Sugabandh falls. After crossing the bridge at Garu where the Koel river runs alongside the road and swerves off into the jungle, 3 km from the Garu is Mirchaiya, a 100 ft waterfall perhaps named after its slender shape before entering the jungle of Betla.

Flora And Fauna

The forest is blessed with vast range of vegetation. The lower reaches are covered with tropical evergreen forests, deciduous forest in the middle and temperate alpine forests in the upper reaches. The forest is mainly of Sal and Bamboo as the major components along with number of medicinal plants. River flowing area is dominated by grasslands and the area embellished with waterfalls and hot springs. Deep inside the forest there are two historical forts, belongs to Chero kings. The main sentinel of the old fort is visible high up on the hill.

The fauna of the park also very diversified. The wide ranging eco system promotes a varies types of fauna including elephant, panther, leopard, wild boat, tiger, gaur, sloth bear, sambar, nilgai, mongoose, jackals, porcupine, ant eating pangolin etc. most of the wildlife can be seen during the dry period when animals comes outside from deep to look for water source. Jackal and hyena are common scavangers. Apart from wild animals, park has also numerous avi-fauna species. Birds like hornbill, pea fowl, red jungle fowl, black partridge, white crested serpent eagle, forest owls, the pied born bill, swamp grey, wagtails, white necked stork and other are prominent here. For the enjoyment of children there are common langurs and rhesus monkey.

Sights And Activities

Elephant Safari
The resident elephant Juhi and Anarkali ensures a deeper foray into the dense jungle and you can easily sight some exciting wild animals. The watchtowers at Chaturbathwa, Hathbajhwa and Madhuchuan give you better chance to see tiger. Early morning is ideal for birdwatchers. Elephant safari starts in the early morning and you have to book in advance your ride. Apart from elephant safari there is also option of jeep safari.

The Old Fortress
The Palamau Quila is located 5 km from the Kutumu More, north of the park entrance. The whole of area abounds with the legends of the generous Medini Rai, under whom the kingdom prospered. Within the old fort you will find the remains of stables, the royal area and a well with underground chamber used by royals to draw out water. The fort’s 40 feet high walls had resisted invaders for over two centuries.

Excursion To Maromar
Kusumi tree house is the main attraction, built in 1993. The twin room wooden structure, has a balcony that opens out to a forest that offers the luxury of birdwatching. The Hulukpahad mountain dominates the landscape, with watch tower that affords magnificent views of the forests of Betla.