The Valmiki Tiger Reserve, nestled in the northwest corner of Bihar, India, beckons wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers with its pristine forests and captivating biodiversity. Planning your journey to this sanctuary requires a strategic approach to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach Valmiki Tiger Reserve:
The closest airport to Valmiki Tiger Reserve is the Jayprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna, approximately 289 km away. The Jayprakash Narayan International Airport is well-connected to major cities across India, making it a convenient choice for air travel.
• Nearby major railheads -
• Patna Junction - 288 km
• Valmiki Nagar Road Railway Station - 34 km
• Gorakhpur Junction - 119 km
• Muzaffarpur Junction - 236 km
Valmiki Tiger Reserve is located along the Gorakhpur – Muzaffarpur (via Narkatiaganj) rail route. Travelers from major cities across the country can reach the sanctuary by taking direct trains. Additionally, daily or weekly trains are available from New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Dehradun, and Amritsar to reach Bagaha (for the western part of the sanctuary) and Narkatiaganj (for the central and eastern parts of the sanctuary). Muzaffarpur and Gorakhpur are the nearest major junctions that offer passenger/mail/express trains for Bagaha and Narkatiaganj.
Opting for a road trip from Patna is a viable option. The journey takes approximately 7 -8 hours, covering scenic landscapes and towns across 290 km. Hiring a private vehicle or taxi ensures flexibility and comfort during the road trip.
Road Distances from significant cities to Valmiki Tiger Reserve
1. Lucknow - 407 km
2. Kushinagar - 96 km
3. Deoria - 135 km
4. Gorakhpur - 119 km
5. Ayodhya - 273 km
6. Patna - 290 km
7. Muzaffarpur - 238 km
8. Bettiah - 107 km
From the airport or the nearby major railway stations local buses and taxis are available to Valmiki Tiger Reserve. Shared jeeps are also a common mode of transport.