Mukundara Hills National Park consists of three wildlife sanctuaries: Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, National Chambal Sanctuary, and Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Rajasthan state, India. Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve is a Tiger park inside this national park. Mukundra is also spelt as Mukundra.
Spread over an area of 759.99 square kilometers, Mukundra Hills National Park was officially established in 2004. It forms part of the Khathiar–Gir dry deciduous forest region, which extends over 2,67,000 square kilometers across Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. Historically, this picturesque park was once the royal hunting ground of the Maharaja of Kota, adding cultural and heritage value to its natural beauty.
Mukundara park is situated in the valley in between the Mukundra and Gargola mountains.
Landscape and Rivers
The park’s terrain is a mixture of rolling hills, dense forests, and riverine landscapes. Four rivers—the Chambal, Kali, Ahu, and Ramzan—flow through the park, providing life to its flora and fauna. These rivers not only act as water sources but also enhance the scenic charm of the region, making it an appealing spot for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts. The lush greenery during the monsoon season adds to its charm, transforming the park into a vibrant natural paradise.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
Mukundra Hills is home to a fascinating variety of wildlife. The Bengal tiger, Indian wolf, Indian leopard, sloth bear, and chinkara are among the most prominent species here. Apart from these, the park also shelters striped hyenas, wild boars, sambars, nilgais, and a diversity of reptiles and birdlife. The Chambal river section within the park is especially known for gharials and freshwater turtles, making it an important habitat for aquatic species. With its unique blend of flora and fauna, the park provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Mukundara Hills National Park Location and How to Reach There
Mukundra Hills National Park and Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve lies between the districts of Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, and Chittorgarh in southeastern Rajasthan. The nearest city is Kota, located about 50 km from the park, which serves as the primary gateway.
By Air: The closest airport is Kota Airport (50 km), but it has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport is at the Pink city of Jaipur. Jaipur International Airport is about 250 km away.
By Rail: Kota Junction is the nearest major railway station, well connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and other cities. From Kota, taxis and buses are available to reach the park.
By Road: Mukundra Hills is accessible by road via National Highway (NH 52) and other regional routes. Regular buses and private vehicles connect Kota and Bundi to the park’s entry points.
For visitors, the park offers a perfect combination of wildlife adventure, natural landscapes, and a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past. Safari tours, birdwatching, and nature walks are some of the popular activities that allow tourists to experience the rich biodiversity and pristine environment of Mukundra Hills National Park.