Stretching between the towering Himalayan foothills and the enchanting Vindhya range, Uttar Pradesh has many dense forests creating a haven for a rich tapestry of life. Travellers are enticed to delve into the captivating wildlife treasures within the state's forest reserves and sanctuaries. Recently it was announced that the Uttar Pradesh government is taking steps to transform the Ranipur Tiger Reserve in Chitrakoot into a vibrant eco-tourism destination. A detailed action plan has been developed, and the Forest Department has initiated the project implementation.
According to reports, approximately INR 38 lakh has been earmarked for enhancing the tourist facilities within the reserve and upgrading the infrastructure in the surrounding buffer zone. The Deputy Director of the Ranipur Tiger Reserve/Divisional Officer in Chitrakoot has been instrumental in driving forward these initiatives.
The Ranipur Tiger Reserve is the fourth tiger reserve in Uttar Pradesh and the 53rd in India.The reserve is located around 150 kilometres from Madhya Pradesh's Panna Tiger Reserve. Recognising the significant tourism potential of the region, the Uttar Pradesh Government is intensifying its developmental efforts within the tiger reserve. The development blueprint emphasises sustainable growth while maintaining rigorous adherence to environmental regulations.
Officials have often spotted pugmarks in the area, credited to tigers who venture into the area from the nearby Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. As per a report by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), RWS is an important corridor for the movement of tigers.
Home to animals like blackbuck, chinkara, bear, leopard and wolf, the Ranipur Wildlife sanctuary was founded in 1977 and is part of the government's concentrated efforts for the protection and conservation of India's tiger population. A Ranipur Tiger Conservation Foundation will also be established in the region. The other tiger reserves in Uttar Pradesh include Dudhwa, Pilibhit, and Amangarh (a buffer of Corbett Tiger Reserve).
The nearest airport is in Allahabad, and Allahabad railway station is the nearest railhead to Ranipur Tiger Reserve. From there, you can get to the place by bus or a private cab. If you are travelling by road, the area is well-connected to other major cities like Lucknow and Varanasi.