Valmiki Tiger Reserve
The Valmiki Tiger Reserve forms the easternmost limit of the Himalayan Terai Forest in India. Situated in the Gangetic Plains bio-geographic zone of the country, the forest has a combination of bhabar and terai tracts. Boulder and pebble deposits by the Himalayan Rivers in the foothills characterize the Bhabar tract, while the finer sediment deposits feature terai lands.
The Valmiki National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the north-westernmost West Champaran district of Bihar. The name of the district has been derived from two words Champa and Aranya – meaning Forest of Champa trees. In the north, the protected areas are bordered by Nepal while the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh bounds the Wildlife Sanctuary from the western side.
Valmiki National Park has a variety of activities to muse the tourists:
1. Nature Walk
The rich wildlife and the diverse topography make for wonderful nature walks through the forests. The volunteers are taken on a guided walking tour spanning 4 - 5 km to give them an idea of the flourishing ecosystem of the forests. These groups of 5 - 6 people are guided by professionals and children below the age of 15 years are not allowed.
It is a must-experience activity when at the sanctuary to witness the plenteous flora and fauna, and to be awed at the grand and cozy forests brimming with wondrous bounteous nature.
2. Border Trek
Located at the brink of the India- Nepal border with the Someshwar Range as the border between the two countries, the wildlife sanctuary facilitates beautiful treks in the region. From the top of the hill peaks, one can take a mesmerizing bird's eye view of the tiger reserve and the national park, in addition to the parallel Chitwan National Park in Nepal.
The trek is a day-long activity, conducted from 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Besides testing your fitness agility and grit, the trek takes you through a wonderland of steep slopes, settling riverine, meandering streams, and narrow passes in the forests. The package includes packed meals en route. This trek is conducted in groups of 10 - 15 people led by a professional guide. Children below the age of 15 years are not allowed.
3. Jungle Camp
This is one of the most thrilling activities at the camp which is conducted in the anti-poaching camps or one of the watchtowers. The package includes beds, spotlights, and night vision devices. Special care is taken not to disturb the natural habitat of the plants and animals. Midnight creeks and howls of the wild animals are sure to get up your adrenaline rush. In a group, 2 - 4 people can be accommodated and children below 15 years are not allowed.
4. Tiger Trail
One of the most exciting highlights of Valmiki National Park is the Tiger Trail activity. The trek starts early at dawn under the supervision of the tiger trekkers where you follow the trails walked by the king of the forest- Bengal tigers. In case it is your lucky day, you might get to see a kill or the spoils of the tigers.
The trek is also very informative where the participants are taught how to identify various pugmarks, scratches, and scents. The group consists of 4 - 6 participants and children below 15 years are not allowed.
5. Watchtowers
There are several wooden watchtowers housed in the forests from where the tourists can take a peek into the privacy of the wildlife. Besides the towers offer enchanting views of the rivers, the confluence, and the majestic Himalayan ranges. These watchtowers are also installed at Thori, Bajani, Singha Sonbarsa, Bherihari, and Bhaluthapa.
