Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve, Kota: A Sanctuary for Wildlife

Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve is Rajasthan’s third tiger reserve after Ranthambore and Sariska, established to protect the region’s wildlife, forests, and historical heritage. Located near Kota, it spans 759 sq km across Kota, Bundi, and Chittorgarh districts, merging three wildlife sanctuaries—Darrah, Jawahar Sagar, and Chambal.

Visit The Place

1. Historical Background

A. Royal Hunting Grounds of the Kota & Bundi Maharajas

Originally part of the Hada Rajput kingdoms (Kota & Bundi).
Used as royal hunting reserves by Maharao Raja Bhim Singh of Kota (18th–19th century).
Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary (now part of MHTR) was a private hunting forest for Kota’s rulers.

B. Colonial Era & Post-Independence Changes

Under British rule, the forests were managed for timber but hunting was restricted.
Post-1947, the area was declared a protected forest.
2004: Darrah, Jawahar Sagar, and Chambal sanctuaries were merged to form Mukundara Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.
2013: Officially declared Rajasthan’s third Tiger Reserve to support tiger relocation from Ranthambore.

2. Ecological & Wildlife Significance

A. Flora (Vegetation)

Dry deciduous forests with dhok, khair, salar, and tendu trees.
Grasslands & rocky terrain suitable for herbivores.

B. Fauna (Wildlife)

Big Cats: Tigers (relocated from Ranthambore), leopards.
Herbivores: Chital, sambar, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar.
Birds: Over 200 species, including peafowl, grey hornbill, and migratory birds near Jawahar Sagar Dam.
Reptiles: Marsh crocodiles (in Chambal River), Indian python.

C. The Chambal River Connection

The Chambal River flows through the reserve, supporting aquatic life.
Jawahar Sagar Dam creates a wetland habitat for birds.

3. Conservation & Tiger Reintroduction

2018: First tigers (T-91 & T-92) relocated from Ranthambore.
2023: Reserve reported 5–7 tigers, including cubs.
Challenges: Human-wildlife conflict, poaching threats, and habitat fragmentation.

4. Tourism & Safari Details

A. Safari Zones

Darrah Zone – Dense forests, historical ruins.
Jawahar Sagar Zone – Scenic dam views, crocodile sightings.
Chambal Zone – Riverine ecosystem, birdwatching.

B. Best Time to Visit

October to March (pleasant weather, high wildlife activity).
April–June (good for tiger sightings but hot).

C. How to Book Safaris?

Online booking via Forest Department website.
Entry Gates: Mukundara, Keshoraipatan, Bhitrawada.

D. Nearby Attractions

Garadia Mahadev Temple (cliffside Shiva temple with Chambal views).
Kota’s palaces & stepwells (Raniji Ki Baori, City Palace).

5. Unique Historical & Cultural Aspects

Ancient Caves & Ruins: Darrah has medieval-era structures linked to Rajput warriors.
Tribal Influence: The Mina and Bhil communities live in buffer zones, contributing to conservation efforts.
Folklore: Legends say Darrah forests sheltered kings during wars.

6. Future of Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve

Expansion plans to connect with Ranthambore for a larger tiger corridor.
Eco-tourism development with better safari infrastructure.

Conclusion

Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve is a unique blend of wildlife, history, and adventure. Once a royal hunting ground, it now plays a crucial role in tiger conservation while offering scenic safaris, ancient ruins, and riverine landscapes. A must-visit for nature lovers exploring Kota and Rajasthan’s wild side.