Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Barnawapara is a compact but rewarding wildlife sanctuary within easy reach of Raipur, its deciduous sal forest home to leopards, sloth bears, deer and a healthy population of birdlife. Its manageable size and proximity to the state capital make it a popular short getaway for wildlife viewing without the longer travel required to reach Chhattisgarh's larger, more remote reserves.

Watchtowers positioned near waterholes offer good opportunities for animal sightings, particularly in the drier months when wildlife concentrates around remaining water sources, and the sanctuary's forest rest houses provide a straightforward overnight base for those wanting an early-morning or late-evening safari.

Established as a wildlife sanctuary to protect a stretch of sal forest within striking distance of Raipur, Barnawapara has functioned for decades as the state capital's most accessible wildlife destination.

About 80km from Raipur, roughly 2 hours by road.