Wild Animals

Ranipur’s Big five: Bear, Deer, Ground Pangolin, Tiger and Leopards with other unique species.s

Gypsy Safari

Explore Ranipur’s landscapes and wildlife up close on an exciting Gypsy Safari.

Birds Watching

Ranipur hosts hundreds of bird species, including the waterfall and many more.

Cultural and Ecological Heritage

Ranipur Tiger Reserve, nestled in the Vindhya hills of southern Uttar Pradesh, is a rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature. At its heart lies the mystical Bedakh forest, an ancient, untouched woodland linked to the epic tales of the Ramayana, one of India’s most revered scriptures. The very name 'Bedakh' evokes the image of a pristine forest, reminiscent of the landscapes where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman took refuge during their exile. Today, the Bedakh forest not only shelters wildlife such as tigers and leopards but also stands as a living testament to India's deeply rooted heritage. These sacred woods, once walked by Lord Ram, still preserve the rich biodiversity of the region through their hills, rivers, and trees. This unique confluence of myth, history, and conservation makes Ranipur Tiger Reserve a place where India's past seamlessly blends with its present natural landscape, symbolizing both cultural and ecological preservation.

There are 3 Main Attractions

Facilities for tourists
Religious site
Jungle Safari

How to Reach Ranipur Tiger Reserve?

By Air

The airport at Devangana, approximately 12 km from Chitrakoot district, has been operational since March 2024. It offers connecting flights from New Delhiand Mumbai, as well as direct flights from Lucknow.

By Road

  • Route from New Delhi to Chitrakoot: Yamuna Expressway and Bundelkhand Expressway.
  • Route from Lucknow to Chitrakoot: via Raebareli or Fatehpur Unchahar, Manjhanpur (Kaushambi).
  • Route from Prayagraj to Chitrakoot: via Shankargarh or Manjhanpur (Kaushambi).
  • Route from Jhansi to Chitrakoot: via Bundelkhand Expressway.
  • Route from Kanpur to Chitrakoot: via Fatehpur or Banda.
  • Route from Jabalpur to Chitrakoot: via Katni-Maihar or Katni-Kalinjar.
  • Route from Satna to Chitrakoot.

By Rail

  • From Hazrat Nizamuddin to Chitrakoot.
  • From Lucknow to Chitrakoot via Kanpur.
  • From Mumbai to Chitrakoot via Bhopal, Jhansi or via Lalitpur, Khajuraho.
  • From Prayagraj to Chitrakoot via Chiwaki or via Naini, Manikpur.
  • From Jhansi to Chitrakoot via Banda.
  • From Satna to Chitrakoot.

Geographical Location of Chitrakoot.

Chitrakoot, often referred to as "the hills of many wonders," is a unique gift bestowed upon Uttar Pradesh by nature. Located along the banks of the Payasvani/Mandakini River in the northern part of the Vindhya mountain range, its name derives from the Sanskrit word "Chitra," meaning Ashoka, and "Koot," meaning peak or summit. It is believed that this area was once abundant with Ashoka trees in ancient times. Chitrakoot is renowned not only for its religious and cultural significance but also as an environmentally and historically vital part of the Bundelkhand cultural region. Ranipur Tiger Reserve, situated in this area, adds to the geographical importance of Chitrakoot. Nestled in Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh, the reserve borders Banda and Prayagraj to the north, while to the southwest, it adjoins the districts of Satna and Rewa in Madhya Pradesh. Set in the lap of the Vindhya mountain range, the reserve features dense forests, vast valleys, and rolling hills. The area's dry deciduous vegetation and diverse topography make it geographically rich and unique. The Mandakini River and other water sources provide a lifeline to the region. Located on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the reserve plays a crucial role in connecting the ecosystems of both states, making it an ideal location for the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. Overall, the region encompassing Chitrakoot and the Ranipur Tiger Reserve is significant not only from an environmental perspective but also for its cultural, religious, and natural beauty, securing a distinctive place in the geography and history of the country.


Key Information for Tourists


  • Maintain patience and calmness during jungle safari tours and visits to the Tulsi complex.
  • Wear dark-colored clothing during forest visits. Avoid carrying valuable items like jewelry. Travel in small groups.
  • Swimming and bathing in the waterfall area are prohibited and considered a punishable offense.
  • If possible, carry a pocket diary or notebook to write about your travel experiences and memories.
  • Do not use plastic, cans, or any such items in the forest area, and ensure that you do not litter anywhere.
  • Taking selfies in risky places can be life-threatening.
  • Smoking and consuming alcohol in the forest area are strictly prohibited and considered punishable offenses.
  • It is mandatory to take a nature guide for jungle safaris and visits to the Tulsi Waterfall complex.