national park, north-central Jharkhand state, northeastern India. The sanctuary is situated on a hilly plateau at an average elevation of 2,000 feet (600 metres), about 55 miles (90 km) north of Ranchi, the state capital. Established in 1955, it covers an area of 71 square miles (184 square km). Its hills are covered by a dense forest of sal (Shorea robusta) that provide habitat for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, black bears, several varieties of deer, wild pigs, hyenas, and many species of birds, including peafowl, red jungle fowl, and green pigeons. Observation towers connected by all-weather roads facilitate wildlife viewing; several salt licks have also been constructed.