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Exploring the Biodiversity of Kanger Valley National Park

A Glimpse into Chhattisgarh's Natural Heritage

Exploring the Biodiversity of Kanger Valley National Park

  • 27 Dec, 2025
  • 271

Kanger Valley National Park: A Natural Treasure

The Chhattisgarh government is intensifying efforts to protect the renowned Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar, which is on the path to achieving UNESCO World Heritage Site status. This move highlights the park's ecological and cultural significance.

About Kanger Valley National Park

Situated in Jagdalpur, in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, the park is named after the Kanger River, which flows through it from northwest to southeast. This river is a tributary of the Kolab River, eventually merging with the Godavari River. Covering an area of approximately 200 square kilometers, the park's diverse topography includes flatlands, gentle slopes, steep inclines, plateaus, deep gorges, and winding streams.

Natural Wonders

One of the park's highlights is the mesmerizing Tirathgarh Falls, which cascades from a height of 150 feet, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Additionally, Kanger Valley is home to more than 15 limestone caves, with notable ones including Kotumsar, Kailash, and Dandak caves.

Flora and Fauna

The park showcases a blend of mixed moist deciduous forests, predominantly featuring Sal, teak, and bamboo. Its rich biodiversity includes a variety of wildlife. Major animal species found here are tigers, leopards, wildcats, sambar deer, chital, barking deer, and langurs. The park is also a habitat for several birds, including common hill mynas, red jungle fowl, spotted owlets, and racket-tailed drongos.

Conservation Efforts

With increasing awareness and initiatives for wildlife conservation, Kanger Valley National Park plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and preserving unique species. Efforts are being made to enhance its status as a tourist destination while ensuring the protection of its diverse ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Kanger Valley National Park?
Answer: Kanger Valley National Park is significant for its rich biodiversity and is on the path to achieving UNESCO World Heritage status, highlighting its ecological importance.

Q2. What types of flora are found in Kanger Valley National Park?
Answer: The park features mixed moist deciduous forests, primarily consisting of Sal, teak, and bamboo, contributing to its rich plant diversity.

Q3. Which animals can be spotted in Kanger Valley National Park?
Answer: Visitors may encounter tigers, leopards, sambar deer, chital, and various bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Q4. How can one reach Kanger Valley National Park?
Answer: Kanger Valley National Park is accessible from Jagdalpur, which is well connected by road and rail to major cities in Chhattisgarh.

Q5. Why is Tirathgarh Falls a popular attraction?
Answer: Tirathgarh Falls, with its impressive 150-foot drop, offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What river gives Kanger Valley National Park its name?
A) Godavari River
B) Kolab River
C) Kanger River
D) Mahanadi River
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: Which animal is NOT commonly found in Kanger Valley National Park?
A) Tiger
B) Elephant
C) Leopard
D) Sambar Deer
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many limestone caves does Kanger Valley National Park have?
A) More than 5
B) More than 10
C) More than 15
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is the height of Tirathgarh Falls?
A) 100 feet
B) 150 feet
C) 200 feet
D) 250 feet
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which type of forest is mainly found in Kanger Valley National Park?
A) Coniferous forests
B) Mixed moist deciduous forests
C) Evergreen forests
D) Tropical forests
Correct Answer: B

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