How To Reach Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh is the Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary which is also a part of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. The Sanctuary came into existence in 1975 and the region was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2009 and is home to the Bengal Tiger. Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary is located far from the airport, but easy to reach by rail and road. This sanctuary spreads over two states, namely Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, with most of the area in Chhattisgarh itself. The sanctuary spreads over 551 sq km and is huge and therefore the sanctuary has jeeps to take people around as well. Below are some of the best ways to reach Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary is a vast wildlife sanctuary and is situated away from airports therefore the nearest airport is 4 hours away from the reserve. The closest airport to the sanctuary is Swami Vivekananda International Airport in Raipur. This airport is located at a distance of 198.7 km from the gates of Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary. This airport is well connected with airports of other cities in the country as well as destinations abroad. Flight carriers like Indigo, Air Asia, Air India and many others fly to and fro, transporting passengers from different cities to Raipur. After you reach the airport, you can easily avail public transportation to reach your hotel or resort near the sanctuary.

If you want to have a fantastic road trip, you must drive to Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary. There are well maintained roads and highways that connect to the sanctuary and can be driven on. When you are closer to the sanctuary you will find the landscape getting more scenic and natural; you can see occasional deer running in the forest right beside you. But if you don’t want to drive, you can always take the bus. Busses that are run by the state provide service for passengers to reach the sanctuary from different parts of Chhattisgarh. You can find overnight buses that will bring you from neighbouring states like Madhya Pradesh in a comfortable manner.

Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary is close to Bilaspur district and hence the closest railhead is also in this district. Bilaspur Junction Railway Station is located at a distance of 74.8 km from the sanctuary and takes about 2 hours to reach. This is a great option to travel as trains are not too expensive and are quite comfortable too. There are several trains that frequent this station and take passengers from Bilaspur to other cities in the country. Once you get off the train, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to your destination near the forest.

Since the region of the sanctuary is huge, the place has made proper provisions for people to explore the forest area. The best way to get around is to ride the several jeeps that go around the sanctuary along with guides who will show and educate you on all the areas of the forest. Other than jeeps, you can hire a bicycle and ride in the safe zone. You can even walk for some fresh air and exercise, but you must be accompanied by a group. You can even take elephant rides and see a part of the sanctuary.