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Palamu shot to fame as early as 1932 for its tiger census -
the first of its kind in the world. In 1974 it became one of the countrys
earliest tiger reserves. Endowed with thick tropical forests and a rich
variety of fauna, the core area of the sanctuary has been declared as
Betla National park (232 sq. kms.). 
This park is a great attraction to tourists. The Park, at an average
elevation of 1,000 ft. is open throughout the year although February to
April are the best months. It is 140 kms from Ranchi.
Large herds of Gaur and Chital are commonly seen. Elephants are present
mostly after the monsoons up to the time when water holes begin to dry up
in March. Tiger, Panther, Sloth Bear, Wild Bear, Sambhar, Nilgai, Kakar,
Mouse Deer are also permanent residents. Large families of langurs are an
ever present attraction. Palamu is now one of the nine Tiger Reserves in
India under Project Tiger
It has waterfalls and hot springs too. Once the seat of Chero kings,it
has many historical monuments and a fort of 16th century inside the
forest. The other rivers which which drain Palamu are Koel and Burha which
eventually empties into the famous Sone river. The forest department has
made arrangements for providing jeeps for viewing the wildlife here. Betla
is easily accessible by road. Itis 25 kms from Daltonganj and 140 kms from
Ranchi. The nearest airport is Ranchi. For accommodation, one can consider
BSTDC's Van Vihar Tel: 06562-86513 or forest department's Rest Houses,
besides other tourist lodges, cottages and hotel