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Enchanting Places Near Tadoba National Park You Can’t Miss

Tadoba is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, which gives easy access to nearby attractions. These include national parks, forts, temples, and dams. Erai Dam, Moharli, Khosla Village, and Pench National Park are the prime attractions near Tadoba National Park.

After an enchanting tour at one of India’s most sought-after wildlife destinations, plan a trip to get insight into Maharashtra’s wildlife, heritage, and cultural delight. Sighting tigers, sloth bears, hyenas, wild dogs, and other wild animals in Tadoba National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Travelers cherish it for as long as possible. But once it’s over, you can get immersive experiences by going into the cities and interacting with the locals. Many towns and hamlets near Tadoba Tiger Reserve possess numerous ancient temples and remnants of historic forts that will kindle your interest in India’s history. You can extend your trip and visit nearby touristy destinations to maximize your wildlife tour. Here is the list of top places to visit while exploring Tadoba National Park.

Here are the Popular Places to Visit on your Trip to Tadoba National Park

Tadoba lake.

A paradise for birdwatchers, Tadoba Lake is located inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Around 200 species of birds, including white-eyed buzzard, paradise flycatcher, Indian roller, and India Pitta, hover around Tadoba Lake. It acts as a buffer between the forest of the park and the farmland that extends up to the Irai water reservoir. Not to mention, Tadoba Lake is the eternal water source, providing a home to the Mugger crocodiles. Three endangered bird species are the Crested Serpent Eagle, the Grey-headed Fish Eagle, the Changeable Hawk Eagle, and 195 other species found in Tadoba National Park.

Moharli is a village whose border also serves as an entry gate for the Moharli zone in the national park. You can enjoy a wildlife safari from Moharli Gate. It allows entry of nine vehicles each morning and evening for tiger safari. The gate is famous for tiger sightings and unique species. Thus, this is the most visited by tourists. You can witness a tiger on a jeep safari, which is unparalleled. That is why Moharli is among India’s primary wildlife and biosphere reserves.

Moreover, Moharli Gate gives access to most of the tourists in the area, which has yet to be fully discovered. Also, Tadoba National Park has a massive tiger reserve area. Therefore, the gates are interconnected, and finding one another is relatively easy.

Another village near Tadoba National Park, which is by far the latest national park in the country, is Khosla. It is located in the district of Chandrapur near Tadoba and has been given the name ‘Jewel of Vidarbha.’’ The park is over 1,727 square kilometers and houses wild animals and plants. The best time to visit Khosla is during winter, as the weather is pleasant, and travelers can enjoy the greenery and the fresh scent of the mud. To reach here the nearest airport is located in Nagpur, and the nearest railway station is in Chandrapur, about 50 km away. Cabs and buses are also available.

Erai (Irai) Dam

An earthfill and a gravity dam constructed on the Ira River, Erai Dam, is located in Chandrapur, Maharashtra. It is one of the best places to visit near Tadoba National Park due to its beautiful sight. The height of Erai Dam above the lowest foundation is 30 meters, while the length is 1,620 m. Further, the dam’s water storage capacity is 226,500 cubic kilometers, and the volume content is 985 cubic kilometers.

Navegaon National Park

Navegaon National Park is around 193 km from Tadoba National Park. This park is a must-visit for wildlife lovers. Covering an area of 133.88 square kilometers, Navegaon National Park is located in the Bhandara (Gondia) district of the state of Maharashtra. Notably, the neighboring area comes under Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which houses almost 60% of the bird species found in the entire state of Maharashtra. Every year in winter, migratory birds visit Navegaon Lake, which is a sight to behold.

The best way to enjoy your time in Navegaon National Park is by staying in the tree-top house and sailing in a boat in the Navegaon Lake. Gondia is among the famous resorts in the Vidarbha region, established in the 18th century. This wildlife park has a deer park, three landscaped gardens, and an aviary. The watch towers inside this national park are so high that they give the tourists a great view of the entire region. The primary vegetation inside Navegaon National Park will be the southern mixed dry deciduous type, comprising Teak, Haldu, Kawat, Mahua, Jamun, Ain, Bhel & Bhor trees.

Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary

Declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1970, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is a preserved oasis in Maharashtra. It is an important region from a biodiversity conservation point of view. This wildlife sanctuary is encapsulated in the lap of nature. Thus, it offers scenic views of lush vegetation. The total area of this sanctuary is around 152.81 square kilometers, and it is situated in the Bhandara and Gondia District of Maharashtra. Many endangered species reside inside the sanctuary, including jackals, palm civets, small Indian civets, panthers, and flying squirrels. Also, a significant number of eagles, drongos, ground thrushes, and grey-headed fish eagles are found at Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary.

Pench National Park

Home to rocky trails, wooded hills, pristine rivers, and gushing streams, Pench National Park is one of the best places to visit near Tadoba National Park, which is around 220 km away. It is so extensive that it lengthens into Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra states. There are more than 300 varied species of flora and fauna in this national park that attracts many wildlife lovers from around the world. Flocks of resident and migratory birds also reside here. Pench National Park is located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh. The beauty of this park is so mesmerizing that it sparked one of the best creations of Rudyard Kipling – The Jungle Book. Visitors can see the renowned Royal Bengal Tiger at India’s finest sanctuary, Pench Tiger Reserve.

Sevagram is known for being the headquarters of Mahatma Gandhi and different experiments from 1934 to 1940. Mahatma Gandhi, also known as “Bapu,” lived as a local villager without electricity or telephone. Gandhi built this ashram in Sevagram with materials available in the locality. On your visit, you will see the kitchen of Bapu. Many residences have been constructed inside the ashram. The first is Adi Nivas, which was built and used as a prayer ground.

Another hut is Akhiri Nivas (Last Residence), where Mahatma Gandhi spent a few days before leaving Noakhali and has yet to return. Next is Parchure Kuti, the hut of Shri Parchure, a Sanskrit scholar and a construction worker. Mahadev Kuti was the home of Gandhi’s secretary, Mahadev Desai. Kishor Nivas was the residence of Kishorlal Mashruwala. It was the only hut built with brick and cement. Lastly, there is Rustom Bhavan, a guest house with four rooms. So tourists who visit Tadoba National Park must visit Sevagram as it is one of the best tourist places located 110 km from the national park.

Mahakali Mandir in Chandrapur

After covering 30 km from Tadoba National Park, you will reach Mahakali Mandir. The temple is located near the Zarpat River and is among Chandrapur’s most important religious places. Mahakali Temple has two doorways; one is near the Lord Hanuman’s shrine, and the other with the shrines of Ganesha and Shani. The temple is believed to be built in the 16th century by Dhondiya Ram Sah of the Gond Dynasty. Tuesday and Saturday are the auspicious days of the week when the temple gets filled with devotees. Celebrations held during Lord Hanuman Jayanti see hundreds of tourists and devotees visiting from nearby towns to join the festivities. Devotees reach the sanctum sanctorum through a tunnel, which houses the idol of the goddess in a reclining form.

Chandrapur Fort

Chandrapur Fort, located 38 km from Tadoba National Park, is an impressive fort with an ancient history that goes back to the Gond Dynasty. This fort has a massive stone structure adorned with detailed wall carvings. People say Dhondhiya Ram Sah, the Gond King, built it.

Moreover, the magnificent Achaleshwar Temple stands inside the Chandrapur Fort complex, along with two smaller shrines. The prime attraction of the fort is the mausoleums built for the Gond Kings next to the temple. Visit the mausoleum of King Veer Sah, whose Queen, Rani Hirai, ruled around 1704. So, this mausoleum was built in the memory of her husband.

With this list of popular places to visit near Tadoba National Park , enjoy a wonderful tour after your wildlife safari in Tadoba. There are plenty of places near Tadoba National Park, from forts to temples. To make your trip as comfortable and memorable as possible, Indian Visit offers bespoke holidays that will fill your heart with joy and your vacation with unforgettable memories.

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Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve: The Complete Guide

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

Neha & Chittaranjan Desai / Getty Images

Things to Do

  • Best Hikes & Trails

Where to Camp

Where to stay nearby, how to get there, tips for your visit, tadoba-andhari tiger reserve.

If you want to see tigers in the wild, forget Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore National Parks, where sightings aren't guaranteed, and instead book a trip to Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve . This off-the-beaten-track destination has quickly gained popularity due to the high density of tigers in its core zone. The 1,700-square-kilometer reserve delivers many a tiger sighting and is known to provide a view of many. Founded in 1955, Tadoba National Park is the largest and oldest park in Maharashtra , India, located about 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Nagpur and 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Chandrapur. Enveloped in forests of teak and bamboo, and with a magical landscape of rugged cliffs, marshes, and lakes, this diverse ecosystem is chock full of several species of flora and fauna. Hunting was banned in 1947, and today, together with the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, Tadoba National Park makes up the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, which was formed in 1986.

Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve is home to more than 80 tigers, with two-thirds of these predators residing in the park's 625-square-kilometer core area, while the others exist in the buffer zone. There are no villages in the core area and the only way to explore it is by safari, either in a gypsy (open-top jeep) or a canter (open-top bus). Safaris also take place in the buffer area. While your chance of seeing tigers in the buffer is less frequent, you'll be delighted with sightings of the park's other wildlife, including sloth bears, wild dogs, jackals, barking deer, bison, and sambar.

In addition to daytime safaris, there are a number of ways to enjoy nature in the buffer area, too. Eco-tourism activities include nature walks and treks where you can traverse through forests filled with monkeys or hike to viewpoints. Water safaris on a pontoon boat offer a way to view the park's wildlife as they congregate along the banks of Tadoba Lake. You can also see marsh crocodiles and several species of birds near the water.

Viewing wildlife from machans (watchtowers) offers the less adventurous a safe way to experience the wonders of this park, and embarking on a night safari gives you the opportunity to check out the park's nocturnal species, like hyenas, panthers, and owls.

Best Hikes & Trails

Hiking in the core zone of Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve is not permitted, as an encounter with a tiger could be deadly. However, the surrounding area and buffer zone contains several hilly walking paths from which you can view a plethora of species of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife. Don't forget your binoculars as you make your way up Jamunbudi Hill. This short hike, located just outside of the core zone, is a frequented trek made by visitors to Tadoba National Park. It traverses through a dense forest and then rewards you with a view.

Safari excursions take place twice a day (early morning and mid-afternoon) in the core area of the park which is divided into three zones with different access gates: the Moharli (Mohurli) Zone, the Tadoba Zone, and the Kolsa Zone. The Moharli Zone is best known for tiger spotting and has the best offering of tourist accommodations at the Moharli Gate. The Tadoba Zone is a popular zone for those looking to see a diverse array of wildlife and scenic vistas. The Kolsa Zone consists of a densely-forested woodland. For this reason, wildlife sightings are less frequent in this zone.

The best way to experience Tadoba National Park is via a jeep safari. Jeeps, complete with a driver and a guide, accommodate up to six people and offer you a very good chance of seeing a tiger. Bookings should be made well ahead of time through the Maharashtra Forest Department , as the park restricts the number of jeeps to a maximum of 36 per timeslot. Expect to pay an entry fee, a vehicle hire fee, a guide fee, and a camera fee, before embarking on your journey.

Canter safaris are the least expensive safari option, as you will be sharing your experience with up to 22 other people aboard an open-top bus. Canters follow the same route as the jeeps, but offer a less privatized experience. You can book a canter on the spot, on a first-come-first-served basis, at the office of the field director in Chandrapur. Canters depart from the Moharli Gate, the Navegaon Gate, and the Kolara Gate.

Pontoon boat safaris offer the most peaceful way to observe nature. These boats cruise the inlets, islands, and bays of the 51-square-kilometer Tadoba Lake, looking for animals along its banks. Avid birdwatchers will enjoy this boat trip, as it offers the best way to view several different species.

Tadoba Adventure Camp , located in the village of Agarzari, is the only place to tent camp near the park. The facility offers pop-up and permanent tent camping options, alongside adventure activities and meals. Activities include rock climbing, trampolining, boating, hiking nature trails, and safaris. The organization also provides outdoor instructor courses, complete with lessons in route finding, shelter building, and first aid and CPR.

Several different lodging options are located at the Moharli Gate in the park's buffer zone. Those on a budget can choose from a government-run resort stay or dormitory options. Those looking to indulge in luxury can sleep in up-scale cottages or modern family-style bungalows.

  • Maharastra Tourism's Tadoba Jungle Resort : This economical lodging option is conveniently located at the Moharli Gate and offers simple rooms with air conditioning and attached bathrooms. The on-site restaurant serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. This is a great option for those looking for a no-frills experience.
  • Serai Tiger Camp : Also located at Moharli Gate (although much farther away from the park's entrance), the Serai Tiger Camp is situated between two seasonal streams frequented by animals like leopards, sloth bears, bison, cheetah, four-horned antelope, gazelle, and flying squirrels. Sleep in air-conditioned huts with tented roofs or one of 18 economical dormitory beds, located in both air-cooled or air-conditioned units. Three meals a day are included in your stay.
  • Tadoba Jungle Camp : Also located at the Moharli Gate is Tadoba Jungle Camp, an up-scale resort with a focus on conservation, sustainability, and the livelihood of the local community. Choose from one of the resort's twelve elevated cottages built on a platform ten feet off the ground and offering a 180-degree view of the surrounding landscape. Each cottage comes complete with an en suite bathroom, and the dining room offers both a signature buffet and a set menu.
  • The Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge : The Bamboo Forest eco-luxury lodge offers several choices of accommodations, including villas, chalets, and bungalows. The chalets are the simplest option with 850 square feet of living space and a spacious balcony, located on the first floor of the lodge. The 100-square-foot villas are situated lakeside and include a bedroom, powder room, bathroom, and an outdoor shower. The 200-square-foot luxurious bungalows provide enough space for a family, complete with two rooms and two bathrooms.

The nearest airport to Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve is located in Nagpur, about 140 kilometers (87 miles away). Flights arrive from Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkataaway, and it is possible to hire a taxi to the park from the airport. You can also take the train from Mumbai, Delhi, Nagpur, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Jhansi to Chandrapur, and then take a bus or taxi from there. Finally, you can take a bus from Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, and Jalgaon to Chandrapur and hire local transport to the park.

  • Plan your trip well in advance, as the Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve has become a popular wildlife destination. Both the number of places to stay in the region and the number of safaris available per day are limited.
  • When booking accommodations, note that the gates have different locations around the park's buffer zone. Choose an accommodation in the vicinity of the gate you want to enter through.
  • This reserve is one of few tourist destinations in India that charges the same entry fees for both Indian natives and foreigners.
  • The best time for tiger sightings is during the summer months (March through May), although temperatures can be extremely hot.
  • The monsoon season lasts from June to September. During this season travel may be difficult with impassable roads, and safari options may be limited. While the core area closes during the monsoon season, most parts of the buffer area remain open for tourism.
  • Cell phones are not permitted on jeep or canter safaris or anywhere inside the reserve.

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tadoba national park nearest tourist places

Places to Visit Near Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park is a home to numerous species of plants and animals, densely covered forests, river beds, deep valleys, and grassy meadows. It's a booming jungle along the borders of Chimur Hills enwrapping large numbers of flora and fauna. Wildlife buffs can enjoy activities like Tiger safari, lakeside sunset picnics, and nature walks here. After exploring the wildlife of Tadoba, one should visit other national parks like Kanha National Park (322 Km), Pench National Park (256 Km), Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (167 Km), and Navegaon National Park (171 Km), as these are located nearby Tadoba and it gives a wonderful experience of lifetime. It makes one of the best trips ever for wildlife lovers. Other must-see attractions include Vijaydurg Fort (989 Km), Erai (Irai) Dam (51.5 Km), Sevagram (122 Km), Mahakali Mandir in Chandrapur (50.6 Km), Raipur (333 Km), Raigarh Fort (629 Km), etc. You should visit these tourist places at least once as they are enthralling and throbbing with life. Whether it's about national park, forts or any other tourist places; once you are out for a day tour you get plenty of tourist attractions around the Tadoba Tiger Reserve to unfold.

Some key attractions around Tadoba include:

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

About Tadoba

  • Wildlife of Tadoba
  • Birding in Tadoba
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Tadoba Safari information

  • Safari Timings of Tadoba
  • Safari Zones in Tadoba
  • Tadoba Safari Booking
  • Jeep Safari in Tadoba
  • Entry Gates for Safari in Tadoba

Tadoba Travel Information

  • How to Reach Tadoba
  • Best Time to Visit Tadoba
  • Climate and Weather
  • Travel Attractions in Tadoba
  • Nearby Places in Tadoba

Wildlife Resorts in Tadoba

  • Svasara Jungle Lodge
  • Tiger Trails Jungle Lodge
  • Camp Serai Tiger
  • Irai Safari Retreat
  • Tiger Heaven Resort
  • Tadoba Tiger King Resort

Tadoba Tour Packages

  • The Tiger land Safari
  • The Jewel of Vidharbha
  • Wildlife and Nature Trail
  • Weekend Gateway to Tadoba
  • Tadoba Kanha Tour
  • Pench & Kanha Safari Tour

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  • Tadoba Safari Entry Gates
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Tadoba National Park: A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit, permits, hotels

By Ria Gupta

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

The wooded flatlands are a treat to navigate. The grassy meadows are where the predators hide in waiting and the undulating hills curtain the glorious sun behind them. Such is the varied beauty of Tadoba National Park in Chandrapur. The tricky part of the journey, though, lies outside its gates, with all the planning and permissions required to enter the park. So we got naturalist and wildlife tour guide Swanand Deshpande to share insider tips  that will help you navigate through the process and make the most of your next safari trip in the forests of Maharashtra.

In a decade of traipsing through the wild, Swanand has spent six years guiding the guests at Waghoba Eco Lodge (Pugdundee Safaris) in Tadoba. He now leads specialised wildlife trips all across India. Here’s what to know when planning your visit to Tadoba Andhari National Park:

What makes Tadoba National Park special?

What sets Tadoba apart from other national parks is the unique mixture of habitats. There are 20 different zones, allowing tourists to explore the national park from all corners while reducing the pressure on any one particular zone. Each zone here has a different topography, with wooded flatlands, grassy meadows, hilly terrains, and even deep valleys and river beds. High coverage of bamboo thickets and teak wood canopies create the ideal habitat for tigers to roam freely.

Tadoba also offers safaris at night. “Few national parks in India offer safaris after dark. One can spot a plethora of wildlife at night at Tadoba, including the Indian flying squirrel, two species of civets, smaller felines like the rusty spotted cat and the jungle cat, owls and nightjars,” says Swanand.

What to spot in Tadoba-Andhari National Park?

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

Tadoba is the land of Royal Bengal tigers , and spotting one could be a regular sight. But every now and then you could be taken by surprise.  Swanand’s greatest spotting was that of a tiger followed by five cubs at dawn. “We were on our way to the main tar road from where we chart our course of action. Halfway there, and bam! A tiger is spotted in a grass meadow. We figured it was Lara, as she had an unmistakable round face—more like the face of a male tiger. But she wasn’t alone. Following the mother was her cub, and another one, and another two: five of them on the main road, making a move towards us. We kept a distance of about 20 metres. Ultimately after a full memory card and jaw-dropped faces, Lara and the gang exited the road and went into the bushes to head toward the buffer area of the forest."

But apart from tiger sightings, Tadoba is also popular for sheltering a healthy population of Indian leopards (including two black panthers, which are essentially melanistic leopards), Indian wild dogs, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles and the Indian gaur. Among herbivores, the reserve Tadoba has a thriving population of spotted deer, nilgai or the blue bull and northern plains langur.

Tadoba is also a great national park for birding. Close to 250 species of birds reside in and around the park. It’s common to catch sight of the spotted dove, Indian roller, crested honey buzzard, shikra, crested serpent eagle, jungle babblers, spotted owlet, jungle owlet and black hooded oriole, among others. The summer migratory species include blue-tailed bee-eaters, Indian pitta, common hawk-cuckoo, and Jacobin cuckoo, whereas birds like osprey, northern pintails and flycatchers are winter visitors.

“We figured it was Lara, as she had an unmistakable round face—more like the face of a male tiger. But she wasn’t alone. Following the mother was her cub, and another one, and another two: five of them on the main road, making a move towards us.”

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

What's the best time to visit Tadoba National Park?

March to June is the best time to visit. The summers in Tadoba can be unforgiving–with temperatures touching 40 ° C–which means that the smaller channels of water dry up, forcing mammals to converge towards the larger water bodies. So, the scouting area narrows down naturally. But if you can't bear the scorching summer heat, mid-January to mid-March is also a good time to visit. It is also the fruiting season for a lot of trees, turning the forest into a thriving feeding ground for all sorts of critters.

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If you’re interested in birding, head to Tadoba between November to February for winter migrants. This is when the weather is clear and temperatures remain within 20 ° C. March to July is also a good time to spot summer migrants.

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

How many safaris should you do during a three-night stay?

If you want to maximise your animal sightings, a minimum of four to five safaris are recommended during a three-night stay.

What are the safari slots?

At Tadoba, one can book a permit for a regular safari  for a duration of four to five hours. There are two slots–one in the morning and one in the evening. The park remains closed during the monsoon months from July to September. In other months, the timings for each slot vary as per season:

October and November : Morning - 6am to 10am; Evening - 2.30pm to 6.30pm December to February : Morning - 6.30am to 10.30am; Evening - 2.00pm to 6.00pm March and April:  Morning - 5.30am to 10am; Evening - 3pm to 6.30pm May and June:  Morning - 5am to 9.30am; Evening - 3.30pm to 7pm

Apart from this, one can also book a full-day safari. The night safari, which runs from 7pm to 10pm, is popular in the summer. With the grounds burning up at 48°C, animals avoid the infernal outdoors during the day and instead step out at night. To make the best of your trip the forest expert suggests booking multiple consecutive safaris.

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

How to book a safari permit at Tadoba and how much does it cost?

To book a permit, visit the national park’s  official website . The cost of the regular permit ranges between Rs5,000* and Rs6,000*, depending on the gate. The night safari can be booked at around Rs4,200*. Note: you can book normal half-day safaris and night safaris on the official website. For full-day safari permits, contact the forest department office in Chandrapur ( call 9420672791 ) in advance.

How to book a jeep and guide?

The booking for a safari includes the vehicle, guide and entry fees. But the key to a complete experience is when you book it. Bookings open 120 days prior to the date of the safari and are fast sold. Hence, planning the tour in advance is necessary. One can alternatively opt for tatkal booking, which is also available on the website.

At the time of the safari, resorts usually assist you by calling the jeep to the resort itself to take you to the park and back. These transfers are only available if your place of stay is close to the park gate. It could be chargeable if your hotel is located far from the gate. Once you reach the gate, present the permit at the ticket counter. Your guide will be appointed to you by the forest department.

Which zones are the best?

There are 20 different zones or gates in the park, each with its own animal activity. 14 are buffer zones, while the other six are core zones. Buffer is often misunderstood by a lot of people as being an inferior forest. But Tadoba's buffer is quite rich, and in some cases, even prettier than the core area, says Swanand.

The most popular zone in Tadoba National Park is the Moharli zone/gate, followed by Khutvanda, Kolara, and Navagao. These gates have been around for a while now, and several lodges have come up in these areas to cater to tourists. Zari and Pangdi gates are comparatively less visited. Agzarzari and Devada-Adegaon are said to be the best zones for tiger sightings, and night safaris happen in Devada-Adegaon. The buffer gates include Devada-Adegaon, Junona, Agarzari, Ramdegi-Navegaon, Alizanza, Madnapur, Mamla, Pangdi, Sirkada, Kesalghat, Chora Chincholi, Nimdela and Ballarshah.

When you are booking the permit, it’s important to keep accessibility and connectivity from nearby airports and railway stations in mind while selecting a zone. For instance, gates such as Kolara and Moharli are about 75km away from each other. So, if one has a safari permit from Kolara gate, it would be impractical for them to stay near Moharli gate.

Besides jeep drives, what else can you do at Tadoba?

Boat safaris are available but not recommended if you want to spot wildlife.

The boats are motorised and make a lot of noise, so they are typically a joy ride, says Swanand. Apart from this, walking tours are good for bird enthusiasts .

What are the best hotels to stay at?

Svasara Jungle Lodge

Svasara Jungle Lodge

Irai Safari Retreat

Tigress@Ghosri

About six kilometres from the Khutvanda gate stands  Limban Resort  ( doubles from Rs23,000*, book here ), where everything from the tiger-striped chests to the Gond-inspired art adds a touch of local aesthetic to your stay. For a taste of the local life outside the jungle, stay at the  Irai Safari Retreat  ( doubles from Rs14,000*, book here )—about two kilometres from the Moharli gate—where each of the 14 cottages and tents comes with a sit-out. For a taste of local Varadi cuisine, you can head to  Svasara Jungle Lodge ( book here ), which is a stone’s throw away from the Kolara gate.  Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge  ( doubles from Rs23,000*, book here )  is also about 10 minutes from the gate and features open-air bathtubs for you to unwind after a long day of sightings. Set in the buffer zone of the park,  Wagobha Eco Lodge  ( doubles form Rs19,500*, book here ) is your escape into the wild. It has no WiFi or TVs and the highlight of the stay is the vast stretch of grassland extending on all four sides of the property. Tigress@Ghosri ( price on request, book here ) is situated on an untainted forest on the periphery of the park. The green belt is used by wild animals to navigate between various parts of the forest, making it an everyday affair to spot wildlife from the comfort of your room.

Tadoba versus Pench

"Both Tadoba National Park and Pench National Park are only three and two hours away from Nagpur International airport respectively. Tadoba, though, offers a more rustic experience, with even higher end hotels posing an underlying breath of eco-consciousness. At Pench, in contrast, you get to taste all kinds of creature comforts during your stay. Tadoba is currently known to have one of the highest tiger densities in the country, with a chance to view sloth bears and "blackie" the resident panther. In comparison, Pench has fewer tigers in a larger area, some bears and a high number of leopards. The best season to visit both parks depends on what you are looking for," says wildlife enthusiast Aarti Cooper.

How to get there?

Travellers flying in from major metropolitans can land at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur. The park, which is in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, is a three-hour drive from the airport. The closest railway stations are Chandrapur (35km away) and Wardha (118km away). To travel within the city/village, one has to book or rent a cab, which can be done with the help of the hotel/lodge that they are staying in.

How to reach the guide

Contact Swanand Deshpande at  [email protected] . You can also follow his journeys in the wild on his YouTube channel  Naturalist Diaries .

Tadoba National Park A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit permits hotels

*Prices are subject to change.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Places to Visit Near Tadoba National Park

Places to Visit Near Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park is one of the largest national parks in Maharashtra . This national park is rich in flora and fauna with densely covered forests, grassy meadows, and deep valleys. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, there are several activities to enjoy in Tadoba National Park such as enjoying adventurous Tiger Safari, doing lakeside sunset picnics, and forgetting all your worries in the lap of nature.

If you are going to a new place, you should explore all the nearby places. This blog is written to provide you with a list of places to visit near Tadoba National Park to add more fun to your vacations.

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve

The Tadoba National Park is the oldest in the state of Maharashtra. This national park is divided into major 2 zones that are Tadoba National Park and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary. Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for tiger sightings. You can enjoy here the tiger safari to add some thrill to your trip.

Moharli is a village where you will find the entry gate of the Moharli Zone of Tadoba National Park. This village is located at a distance of around 7 km from the national park. You can also avail the opportunity of a jungle safari at Tadoba National Park from the Moharli entry gate.

Moharli is the most favored entry gate by tourists as this area offers the best tiger spotting options in the national park.

Erai dam is one of the most fascinating places to visit near Tadoba National Park . This dam is built on the Erai river. The dam is referred to as an earth fill and gravity dam. Erai Dam is just located next to Tadoba National Park. The height of this dam is 98ft (approx 30 m) and the length is 5310 ft (1620 m).

This dam is located at a distance of around 37 km from the national park and you can reach there very easily.

Mahakali Temple

One of Chandrapur’s most notable iconic icons is the Mahakali Mandir, which is located next to the Zarpat River. Being considered auspicious days of the week, Tuesdays and Saturdays see a lot of devotees at the temple.

Hanuman Jayanthi is a time for special celebrations, and hundreds of people from nearby towns come to Mahakali Mandir to partake in the festivities. The tunnel that pilgrims must pass through to get to the sanctum sanctorum contains a special statue of the Goddess that is resting.

Mahakali Mandir is located at a distance of 38 km from Tadoba Tiger Reserve .

Chandrapur Fort

Built with the enormous stone Chandrapur Fort. Which has stunning and detailed carvings on its walls, is credited to the Gond monarch Dhondiya Ram Sah.

The mausoleums constructed for the Gond Kings next to the temple are what make the Fort noteworthy. Visit the mausoleum of King Veer Sah, whose queen Rani Hirai, who ruled in the year 1704, had it constructed in honor of her husband.

This fort is located at a distance of 27 km from Tadoba National Park.

Final Words

By concluding our discussion, we recommend you least visit these places near Tadoba National Park to enjoy your vacations to the fullest. If you are planning your trip anytime soon and are looking for a tour and travel operator who can offer you the tour package to Tadoba National Park, we can recommend you.

Snaptours is offering the best-customized travel packages to Tadoba National Park at very affordable rates. You can add some additional sparkling stars by hiring them as your travel agency.

Book  Tadoba National Park Tour Package: +91 9910511523

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9 Things to do in Tadoba | 9 Top Activities in Tadoba

Located in Maharashtra, Central India, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve or Tadoba National Park is one of the most preferred tiger destinations in India and the largest in the state. Tadoba has gained immense popularity in recent years as the top park for tiger sightings and is one of India’s forty-seven project tiger reserves.

Landscape of Tadoba National Park

This pristine, wild habitat is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, also referred to as the Vidarbha region. Connectivity to Tadoba is excellent as it is just 2-1/2 hours from Nagpur International airport. A quaint, beautiful jungle with hilly terrain and undulating landscape, Tadoba offers tiger and wildlife sightings galore.

Tiger landscape

Spread across an expansive landscape of 625.4 Sq.km, Tadoba includes the Tadoba National Park , created in the year 1955. The Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was formed in the year 1986 and was integrated with the park in 1995 to establish the present Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve .

Tadoba Andhari National Park derives its name from God “Tadoba” or “Taru” worshipped by the local tribes. Taru was the brave village chieftain and was killed in a fierce encounter with a tiger. Therefore, a shrine was established in his name.

history of tadoba tiger reserve

The name Andhari originates from the Andhari River.

Gond tribals, predominately inhabited the region and their descendants continue to live in the local villages.

Also Read: History of Tadoba National Park

A dry deciduous forest with mostly teak and bamboo trees, Tadoba has a mix of grasslands and dry forests. This type of vegetation allows better visibility throughout the forest and good sightings. The otherwise dry forest boasts of a few lakes and rivers ensuring abundant water sources for the park.

Tigers can be spotted on the tarmac road and even lying languorously in the man-made water sources.

Also Read: Best Gates In Tadoba

The perennial Irai lake is a major tourist attraction offering a residential territory for a wild array of birds and freshwater crocodiles.

The Tadoba Tiger Reserve is rich in flora and fauna. The flora includes: Teak, Ain, Bija, Dhauda, Hald, Salai, Semal, Tendu, Beheda, Hirda, Karaya gum, Mahua Madhuca, Arjun, Bamboo, Black Plum , and many others.

Here is a List of Top 9 Things to do in Tadoba National Park:

1. jeep safari for tiger and wildlife sighting in tadoba.

A jeep safari is the most impressive way to experience nature and wildlife at their natural best. It offers ideal opportunities to sight the elusive tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, and plenty of other fauna that abound in this forest.

Tadoba Tiger Reserve offers jeep safaris and can be accessed via Moharli gate, Khutwanda gate, and Kolara gate.

The other gates are NaveGoan, Pangdi, and Zari.

Safaris booking can be made at https://mytadoba.org/ site .

2. Boat ride in Irai lake

Pugdundee-safaris-Tadoba-Boat-ride

The forest department offers a boating facility on the backwaters of Irai lake. This is an ideal activity for birders and photographers. Some of the birds that can be seen are Crested Poachard, Grey Heron, Stork Billed Kingfisher, Cotton Goose, etc.

There are many migratory birds that also arrive at this lake.

Pugdundee-safaris-Tadoba-lake-boat ride

Boat ride Timing: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Boating is closed in the monsoons (July – October end)

3. Bird Around the Lakes of Tadoba

Pugdundee-safaris-Tadoba-birds-in-lake

Tadoba Lake and River and the Kolsa River wind their way through the reserve. The rivers and lakes of Tadoba are the hot spots for bird watching.

You could find a wide array of birds by the water bodies. Tadoba Lake is a favorite haunt for raptors like White-eyed buzzards, Oriental honey buzzards, and also paradise flycatchers, Indian rollers, Indian pitta, etc. Don’t be surprised if you spot a crocodile or two, while the deers gambol on the fringes of the river with langurs and wild dogs for company.

The lake can be accessed from the core gates and Irai can be done from a buffer zone safari. Irai lake can also be reached from outside the park and one can enjoy walks.

4.  Night Safari in Tadoba

Night safari

Night Safari is the latest addition to an array of activities in Tadoba. Night Safari is available in the buffer zone from Junona Gate and is for about 3 hours starting just after sunset.

It’s a great way to experience the nightlife in Tadoba National Park and has become popular for leopard & tiger sightings.

Good warm clothing for winter months and prior booking is recommended.

If looking for a luxury resort in Tadoba , in close vicinity of Tadoba National Park, Waghoba Eco Lodge by Pugdundee Safaris could be a great choice. This lodge has set new standards in eco-friendly construction with its sun-dried adobe bricks and Guna vault roofs. The lodge has 14 exclusive luxury cottages, done in handmade bricks and local stone. The lodge also has a swimming pool, nature library, and a lounge. The lodge is about 15 minutes drive from Khutwanda gate of Tadoba, and about 30 minutes from Moharli gate.

Waghoba eco lodge the best resort in Tadoba

5. Loghut Stay

Log Hut Board

Simple log huts have been made above forest guard check posts in the buffer zone and are a unique experience of spending a night deep inside tiger country.

Filled with night calls of owls, nightjars, and occasional alarm calls to warn the forest residents of predator movements, this is a night to keep the adrenaline pumping.

Accommodation is basic and toilet facilities are available, authorized jeeps will pick and drop you from the log huts.

Log huts are available in several buffer gates including Junona Gate and Nevada Gate.

Prior reservations and a basic night kit are recommended (torches, water, snack & clothing as per weather).

6. Butterfly Garden

Butterfly Garden in Tadoba

Near Agarzari gate of Tadoba an open-air butterfly garden and information centre have been opened.

This is a great opportunity to learn about butterflies. The garden has several host & nectar plants to attract local species of butterflies.

The butterfly park is on the main road from Moharali to Chandrapur.

7. Visit Ramdegi Temple

Pugdundee-safaris-Tadoba-Ramdegi - Temple

Ramdegi is a charming rural setup in the Chimur Taluk of Chandrapur. An idyllic countryside drive through lush, verdant fields on either side, transports you to the peaceful haven of Ramdegi. A temple dedicated to Lord Rama stands serenely, near the Ramdegi forest. It is also believed to be one of the spots where Rama stayed during his 14 years of exile. Thereby making it a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims alike.

There is a fascinating Buddha sculpture by a banyan tree, some 400 steps away, at Ramdegi, at Buddha Vihar.

It is believed that tigers too can be seen boldly walking into the temple complex under the cover of a dark night.

Ramdegi is also a great habitat for sloth bears and a good population it can be found around the area.

The temple pujari (priests) have many tales to share about the bears.

Ramdegi is a day drive well spent with friends and family, and an ideal outing with a picnic basket in tow.

8. Visit Sevagram, Gandhiji’s Ashram

Pugdundee-safaris-Tadoba-Sevagram-Gandhiji-Ashram-Wardha-govt

Sevagram is a township, located 8 km from Wardha. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, set up the ashram on the outskirts of the village which became his home and residence from 1938, till his death in 1948.

There is a museum here that preserves artifacts from India’s freedom struggle. A disciple of Gandhiji, Seth Jamnalal Bajaj donated about 300 acres of land to the ashram. A picturesque location that brings forth memories from India’s freedom struggle, Sevagram is a fascinating day trip that is a must-do.

It is about 2 hours drive from Tadoba, depending on which gate you are staying at. This visit can be also made when traveling back and forth from Nagpur, as it’s a small detour from the highway.

9. Relish the famous Saoji Cuisine

Pugdundee-safaris-Saoji-Cuisine

A niche cuisine from the Vidarbha region in Maharashtra has gained popularity called the Saoji cuisine.

Primarily known for its non-vegetarian dishes, Saoji style of food is from a community of weavers known as Halba Koshtis, who had migrated to Nagpur from Madhya Pradesh. These people set up small eateries around Nagpur to showcase their fiercely spicy food. Though with its popularity the spice levels have been tempered down.

The masala used is an amalgamation of wet and dry, with over twenty-four ingredients. The proportion in which they are used provides balance to the dish. Each family running a Saoji eatery brings in its own twist to the recipe.

There are a number of outlets selling Soaji cuisine lined across the way to the park. Though guests who are not fond of spicy food should avoid this fiery cuisine.

Next time you plan a trip to the incredible tiger country of Tadoba, do get in touch with our trip curators at Pugdundee Safaris .

Call us at: +91-9718637711, +91-8800637711

Email : [email protected]  

This will be a wilderness holiday you are sure to treasure for times to come.

Written By: Natasha Sinha

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"The land of Tigers in Maharashtra"

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Famous for its natural heritage, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is definitely one of India's most exciting and best protected Tiger Reserve, with most visible tiger sightings in the state of Maharashtra

Tadoba national park is located in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra . This place is an ideal weekend gateway for wildlife and nature lovers. Spotted in this region are rare species of flora and fauna, soothing your very being. Tadoba is famous for Tadoba national park, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Tadoba lake , Erai dam , Moharli and Khosla village. These attractions serves the tourists of an enchanting wildlife experience.

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The Ultimate Guide To Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park is counted amongst India’s finest wildlife destinations. Blessed with rich biodiversity, it offers excellent opportunities for sighting wildlife. It is situated in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, roughly 150 km away from Nagpur city. This guidebook aims to cover all major aspects of Tadoba trip planning. If you are thinking of visiting Tadoba National Park, here is all you should know.

A Quick Glance Through

  • How to Reach

Entry Gates

Approximate cost of safari, safari timings, ideal trip duration, wildlife to explore, birdwatching.

  • Best Time To Visit

What To Wear For Jungle Safari

Where to stay, traveler tips.

  • Tadoba National Park is regarded as the oldest national park in Maharashtra.
  • It was established in 1955 and together with the adjoining Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, it became a tiger reserve in 1995.
  • Officially known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, the combined area of the reserve stands at 625 sq km.

How To Reach Tadoba National Park

The park is well-connected by road from Nagpur and Chandrapur. You can take a flight to reach Nagpur and then rent a cab for the onward journey to the hotel.

Moharli Gate is nearly 3.5 hours drive from the airport, while it takes roughly 2.5 hours to reach Kolara gate.

Chandrapur is the nearest city to Tadoba National Park where the nearest railhead is located. From Chandrapur railway station, it takes less than an hour to reach Moharli.

There are 12 entry gates to Tadoba Tiger Reserve and all are not in proximity to each other. Some of the gates are located almost 100 km apart. So, it is essential to pick the right entry gates that are near your place of stay.

Moharli, Kolara, Khutwanda, Navegaon, Pangdi and Zari gates provide access to the core zones whereas the buffer zones are accessible through Agarzari, Devada-Adegaon, Junona, Kolara, Ramdegi-Navegaon and Alizanza gates.

Moharli is the most popular gate of the reserve followed by Kolara gate. You may also choose Agarzari, Devada-Adegaon and Junona entry gates if your accommodation is near Moharli.

Book your permit for Kolara gate only if you plan to stay in the immediate vicinity. Kolara gate lies over 75 km away from Moharli gate.

Tadoba National Park Safari Booking

Tadoba offers an open jeep safari that can be booked online using the Maharashtra Forest Department website . A limited number of vehicles are allowed to enter the tiger reserve. Make sure to book your entry tickets prior to booking your hotel.

In case you don’t obtain the safari permit, there is absolutely no way to visit the forest. The online safari booking begins 120 days in advance and closes 4 days prior to the date of entry.

Besides the normal quota permit, there is one more permit category, called tatkal quota. Under the tatkal category, the booking opens 3 days before the date of entry and closes the next day.

Tadoba National Park ticket price comprises – gypsy charge (₹ 2,700), guide charge (₹ 350), online processing fee (₹ 50) and entry fee.

The entry fee varies from ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 8,000 depending on how many days in advance you are booking. Weekend safari costs more than that of weekdays.

  • Normal (120-60 days in advance): ₹ 4,000
  • Normal (Less than 60 days in advance): ₹1,000
  • Tatkal: ₹ 4000
  • Normal (120-60 days in advance): ₹ 8,000
  • Normal (Less than 60 days in advance): ₹ 2,000
  • Tatkal: ₹ 4,000

So, the approximate cost of one safari ranges from ₹ 4,100 to ₹ 11,100. All charges mentioned here are as on December 2020.

I would recommend spending 2-4 days exploring Tadoba’s abundant wildlife . Both core and buffer zones are teeming with different forms of wildlife.

Consider taking at least 2 safaris in the core area and 1-2 safaris in the buffer area. You can book more safaris to maximize the occurrence of tiger sightings.

A wildlife lover’s wonderland, Tadoba National Park is endowed with bountiful wildlife and natural beauty. From the elusive big cats to beautiful birds, there is so much to explore that you will never have a dull moment in the forest.

I got to know from my guide that Tadoba is home to over 80 tigers. A majority of guides have been working here for the last many years. They exactly know the sites in the forest where you might spot the wild beast.

In most cases, it’s the warning call that acts as a signal when a tiger is around. Warning calls are nothing but strange sounds made by herbivores like deer when they sense the presence of a tiger or leopard.

Many of the frequently sighted tigers have unique names given by forest officials. Matkasur and Bajrang are the two adult male tigers that are often spotted in the Moharli zone. Besides tigers, the main predators of the Tadoba forest are leopard and dhole (wild dog).

Also Read: 12 Best Places To Sight Tigers in India .

As the gypsy took us deep into the forest, several animals crossed our way including sambar deer, nilgai, barking deer, wild boar and a troop of langur monkeys.

One more popular attraction of Tadoba National Park is the rare mugger crocodiles that are found in Tadoba lake. It’s a huge lake inside the forest that you can’t miss for sure. Our safari halted there for a few minutes when a marsh crocodile showed up near the shore.

Aside from wild animals, Tadoba is a major habitat for water birds, raptors and several other bird species. As soon as our safari entered the forest, we came across a huge mottled wood owl, well camouflaged in its nest.

Crested serpent eagle, Indian roller, peacock and open-bill storks are commonly sighted birds in Tadoba.

You can spot a wide range of waterfowls near the wetland areas of the forest. Pond heron, little egret, black stork and grey heron are some of the water birds that can be sighted here. Tadoba is undoubtedly a birdwatcher’s paradise in Maharashtra.

Also Read: 15 of The Most Beautiful Birds in India .

Best Time To Visit Tadoba National Park

Tadoba falls in a tropical climate zone. It is warm throughout the year but summers are too hot. April to June is the best time for tiger sightings as they are out in search of water.

If you can’t stand the stifling heat of the Vidarbha region, then you should visit between October to March. From July to September, the core areas of the tiger reserve remain closed due to rains.

Wear comfortable cotton or linen clothes to beat the scorching heat of Tadoba. Tracks inside the forest are a mix of concrete roads and dusty pathways. So, it is better to choose a long-sleeved outfit to avoid dust and direct sunlight.

Additionally, pack some light woollen clothes if you are traveling in winters (November to February). You might need those during the morning safari.

Choice of outfit colour also matters when you are packing for a jungle safari. Do not wear bright and flashy clothes.

Choose something that gels well with the forest surrounding, such as dark green, brown or khaki. For footwear, lightweight walking shoes or sports shoes are fine.

There are several jungle lodges and resorts scattered all around Moharli village.

We stayed in Pugmark Jungle Lodge, located near Moharli gate. It is a well-maintained resort, overlooking a scenic lake. In addition, you can see plenty of birds on the premises all the time. It is a mid-range hotel. Check availability, prices and book Pugmark Jungle Lodge .

Another good option in the vicinity of Moharli gate is Tadoba Trails Resort. It is surrounded by dense forests and is a perfect place to unwind amid nature.

The resort offers a rustic ambiance and a peaceful stay. It is a low to mid-range hotel. Check availability, prices and book Tadoba Trails Resort .

Wherever you choose to stay, the safari jeep picks you up from your hotel. You need to hand over the entry permits to the hotel and they arrange safari jeeps.

In case your safari is from Kolara gate, then don’t book your accommodation near Moharli gate.

Tadoba Tiger King Resort is an excellent choice in the vicinity of Kolara gate. The resort is situated right next to the gate within walking distance away.

It is a beautiful resort with spacious rooms. The resort is well admired for its great hospitality including the delicious food they serve.

During morning safari, they provide a packed breakfast which is kept in your jeep. It is a mid-range hotel. Check availability, prices and book Tadoba Tiger King Resort .

  • Remember to carry the original identity proof that was used for entry ticket booking. At the safari entry gate, you need to provide it for verification.
  • Mobile phones are not allowed inside Tadoba forest. You need to switch off your mobile and hand it over to the guide. It is kept in the safari jeep till the ride lasts. So, you will not be able to click pictures with your mobile camera. Carrying a separate camera is a must if you want to capture jungle safari moments.
  • There is no shared jeep safari in Tadoba unlike Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park of Madhya Pradesh. So, you need to book the full jeep.
  • To avoid paying the incremental entry fee, try booking your safari up to 60 days in advance. The downside to it is that all the safaris from popular gates might get booked. There is always a trade-off!

Further Reading

For more national parks travel inspiration, read some of these posts.

  • Corbett National Park – Essential Travel Guide .
  • Gujarat’s 4 Best National Parks .
  • Best Things To Do in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve .
  • 6 Best National Parks in Maharashtra .
  • 5 Most Amazing National Parks in Karnataka .
  • 7 Best Things To Do in Ranthambore National Park .
  • Pench Tiger Reserve – A Complete Guide .
  • A Guide To Visiting Kabini, Biodiversity Hotspot of Karnataka .

You might also want to check out our blog on tiger quotes: 55 Best Tiger Quotes on Strength And Magnificence .

Over To You Now…

Have you traveled to Tadoba National Park? Would you like to add anything to this guidebook? Please leave a comment below.

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A passionate traveler, nature and wildlife enthusiast, Rashmi loves to explore places filled with natural beauty. She believes there is nothing more fulfilling than wandering in nature. She is here to show you beautiful places around the world, from the most popular to the most offbeat spots.

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Tadoba Safari Booking for monsoon season is open now! Safari is available for Buffer Zone Only. Core Zone Booking is closed till further notice.

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TOURIST PLACES AROUND TADOBA

Tourist places around tadoba national park.

  • Jagat Singh
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tadoba tourist places

There is no dearth of stopover places in Tadoba. Tadoba National Park is currently at the top list as this tiger reserve is known to impress local and International tourists both. The Tadoba National Park in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, brings to mind ample stories of India’s renowned wildlife. This international tiger habitat is also addressed as a capital of wildlife sightings.

The relaxing getaway awaits you so be ready for a landscape in the true natural world. You can certainly opt for such beautiful places in Tadoba and actually the love for tourists from all the corners.

  • Tadoba Lake
  • Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba National Park is one of the oldest and the leading national parks in India. Tadoba is famed for its wildlife and Tadoba Jeep Safari. Besides this you can bump into plenty of nearby places or different national parks, which you can spot with your family and friends.

Which safari is best in Tadoba National Park?

Moharli safari gate is best so far and very trending in social media for spotting Tiger beforehand. The priceless trip educates the mind and soul with the peculiar view and safari from Moharli will never let you down if you have a good team of drivers and guide to take you to the exact forest where the tiger dwells or can be easily seen. There are hotels and resorts as well perfect here with the best of the food facility.

When you are in Tadoba, begin your journey of new ventures and grab some good simple stuff to see this landscape in a new light.

  • Learn about the local gracefulness and dig deeper to know more about Tadoba and its other popular places.
  • Undoubtedly jeep safari will be the most loved and most adventurous things to do in Tadoba National Park and you are bound to have the most of this.
  • Find a local event and push your limit with what other tourists might not do while visiting a place.
  • Look for the means that you would like to explore.
  • You may find a moment where in jeep safari you visit some of the less popular places yet more unique.

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Tadoba National Park: An experience of a lifetime

Tadoba National Park

Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by admin

Tadoba National Park has been a popular wildlife haven for many years offering amazing tiger sightings. I write about my wildlife experience from my visit few years ago!

It is a privilege to live in a country that is home to the highest number of Tigers in the world. Having been to a few tiger reserves such as Manas National Park , Satpura National Park , Periyar National Park , Jim Corbett National Park , Pench National Park and Kanha National Park, there is a thrill every time I watch a tiger in wild.

Tiger Safari’s in the jungles of India are one of the most sought after wild life tours for any wildlife enthusiast across the world. Vacation in forest extremely relaxing.

There are approximately 50 Tiger reserves spread across India that is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Tadoba National Park in Central India is one of these tiger reserves that houses more than 40 of these Big Cats. Tadoba National Park is 116 Sq. Km in area.

Together with Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to the park, the TATR (Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve) is spread across a total of 625 sq km.

Tadoba National Park

It is generally accepted amongst naturalists and wildlife experts that Tadoba has the highest probability of tiger sightings across all Project Tiger reserves in India .

A wildlife enthusiast myself, I had my mind focused on visiting Tadoba for the past many years.  I researched the best zone in Tadoba to increase my chance of sighting tigers in Tadoba.

Table of Contents

Tadoba National Park: Day 1

Once we entered the gates of the park I felt a certain thrill in me like never before. The prospect of seeing a tiger gave me butterflies in my stomach.

At first, the silence of the jungle was exciting as ever but once you enter the park you can hear certain typical calls of birds and animals that are as soothing and relaxing as ever. Hardly half a kilometre inside the park we saw a board saying ‘keep silence in the park and hear the animals in the jungle speak as you are in their territory now’. There was a diversion at that board which allowed us to enter the Moharli zone of Tadoba National Park.

Tadoba National Park safari

Minutes into the safari, we noticed the first signs of wild life. There was a small lake in front of us and basking on it’s shore was a crocodile.

A few lesser whistling ducks basked in the glory of sun near the lake. Up ahead we could hear the alarm call of a spotted dear so we decided to wait there for some time and see if there was any predator around. But the alarm calls stopped after a while and we decided to move on.

Crocs in Tadoba National Park

In Tadoba, there are quite a few water bodies which are known for tremendous tiger sightings. I immediately recognized these water bodies from the many Tadoba documentaries I have seen over the years featuring Maya tiger and Matkasur tiger.

Our guide and driver decided to keep moving from one water body to another in search of the marvelous big cat. After almost 2 hours of roaming around the jungle, we came to a place where we met another gypsy with its guide and driver telling us to go back to one particular water body where we had already been, as they saw a tiger there right after we left it (what luck!).

Upon hearing this news, we all got very excited and headed back toward that place. Upon reaching there we saw a huge line of gypsy’s and a canter trying to catch a glimpse of the tiger. Beside the water body which was a bit under hill from where our vehicle was, there was a lot of tall grass. The tiger was supposedly in the grass and people could see its ears move or tail wag at regular intervals. It was superbly camouflaged making us unable to recognize if there was any animal there at all.

We decided to stay patient. After 20 mins of waiting for it the tiger gracefully got up. He came uphill first, right at the edge of the road where all the vehicles were lined up. Due to the close formation of all the vehicles the tiger was not able to move to the other side of the road, hence one of the drivers of the gypsy’s moved the car allowing the tiger to pass through. Once he came across we could see him clearly and take some great pictures. He was huge 3-year-old sub adult male tiger, son of the legendary male, Matkasur and Tigress, Chhoti Tara. Due to the names of his parents he is often called Chhota Tarachand or Chhota Matka by the local guides. Chhota meaning small. He also had a tracking collar around his neck. There were reports then that his brother was killed due to electrocution by local nearby villagers. Hence he was collared by the forest department for his own benefit and protection by allowing the forest officials to keep track of his whereabouts. When I saw him I literally had goosebumps on me. It was surreal!

Tadoba National Park tiger sighting

Tadoba National Park: Day 2

The second day of Safari brought us renewed excitement. I remembered all the Tadoba tiger stories I had read and I wished to add to them from my experience.

Just like previous day’s sighting of Chhota Matka we were ever so hopeful of more sightings on day 2. We set out early in the morning around 6 am towards the park’s entry gate.

This time we decided to check out more places in the park and try to increase the number of tigers we could see. We went ahead of the other 2 cars as we tried to catch a glimpse of any predator at dawn at the first sign of light!

We could not see a single tiger or any other predator for most part of the safari, however, we did see a lot of other wild animals such as the Indian Bison, the Sambar, spotted deer and various birds such as the mottled wood owl and the yellow footed green pigeon.

After around 3 hours of roaming there was no tiger in sight and we felt a bit disappointed and it was time for us to head back to the exit. But luck had other plans as, while returning back we saw another male tiger. It was the same tiger, Chhota Matka that we had seen previous day. Feeling lucky again we thanked the heavens for giving us a final glimpse of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

Tadoba National Park tiger pugmark

Overall Experience at Tadoba Safari

It was amazing! If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you must add Tadoba National Park to your must-visit places in India.

Are 2 safaris enough?

Yes and No! Yes if you are short on time, no if you want to explore more areas and look for more wildlife other than the tiger.

Here are many quick points to plan a trip to Tadoba National Park.

How to reach Tadoba National Park

The nearest city from Tadoba is Nagpur which is just 145 km away. Nagpur is well connected through the air, rail and road with other major cities of India like Mumbai, Bangalore and New Delhi.

Where to Stay in Tadoba National Park

Tadoba has lots of hotels and resorts that are suited for high-end luxury as well as budget accommodation. Bookings can be done online. We stayed at the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) Resort near Moharli gate in Tadoba which had excellent rooms and a decent restaurant. Here is a Tadoba resort list for you to choose from.

Low Range: Wild homestay , Tadoba Homestay cottage

Mid Range: Tadoba Tiger Resort , Tristar hotel

High Range: The Pugmark Jungle Lodge , Tadoba Trails

Best time to visit Tadoba National Park

The best months to visit any Tiger Park in India are in the spring to summer months from late February to end of May. The forest and grasslands are much thinner and drier in these months and water sources in the heart of the jungles dry up in the summer hence forcing the tiger to come out in the open towards much larger water resources such as the Tadoba Lake situated in the core area of the reserve. Hence the summer months up to May are much ideal for Tiger sightings.

Tadoba National Park

Safari in Tadoba National Park

Wildlife Safari bookings have to be done online on the Maharashtra eco-tourism website. You should try and book for these safaris well in advance. Bookings open 4 months in advance. You have 2 vehicle options for the ride, 1 is a gypsy and the other one is a Canter which is like a minibus. I would recommend the gypsy for obvious reasons. The gypsy can accommodate 6 persons plus the gypsy driver and the guide. You have to select your choice of the vehicle during your online booking.

At the entry gate of the tiger reserve, you need to first show the authorities your online safari booking slip and the original id’s of all the members in your booking. The gypsies are allocated by the forest department and before the safari timings they usually come and pick you up at the hotel where you are staying in Tadoba and take you to the entry gate where your booking is checked. The booking office also allocates a forest guide with you for your safari. So apart from the online safari permit for which you would pay while booking online, you will also have to pay separately for the gypsy and the guide both of them, at the entry gate. The rates for the permit, vehicle and guide all are mentioned on the Maharashtra eco-tourism website.

Safari timings at Tadoba National Park

For the gypsy to come to your hotel, you have to give your online booking id to the hotel and they will call the forest department on your behalf and ask them to send your allocated vehicle. Safari’s here are permitted in the morning from 6 am to 10:30 am and in the afternoon from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm depending upon the month you visit as these timings also depend upon the sunrise and sunset timings. I took 2 safaris and I would also recommend a minimum of 2 or even 3 to increase your chance of getting a glimpse of the Tiger.

Langur at Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park animals

Tadoba National Park is abundant with wildlife. Apart from the tiger which is the apex predator here, there are lots of other carnivores found here such as the leopard, Indian wild dog, jungle cat, jackals and even Indian Striped Hyenas. Other species of mammals often seen in the park are Indian Bison, Spotted Dear, Sambar, Indian Langur monkeys and Sloth Bears. There are approximately 195 bird species found here but as per our safari guide, a majority of the birds are resident. Only 16-18 birds such as the lesser whistling duck are migratory. Tadoba is home to a lot of reptiles as well such as the cobra, viper and crocodiles in various lakes in the core area of the reserve.

Sustainable Tips for visiting Tadoba National Park Maharashtra

  • Do not litter inside the national park.
  • Wear clothes with natural colours such as green, brown and beige in order to blend into the natural surroundings.
  • Do not talk loudly in the park, try and listen to the calls of animals in order to sight and identify them in the wild.
  • Stepping down from your vehicle inside the park during the safari is strictly prohibited. Safari drivers and guides can get fined and suspended if someone from their vehicle is seen getting down.
  • Avoid using your mobile phones in any national park. Mobile phones have been banned in TATR since 1 st December 2018 hence it is best to leave your phone at your hotel before leaving for a safari.
  • Avoid carrying food with you in safari’s but always keep a water bottle handy. Non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited as its odour can attract carnivores.
  • Respect the forest officials and guides. Do not blame them if you do not spot a tiger. It’s just hard luck.

Read More Posts from Maharashtra

  • Diveagar Beach
  • Trimbakeshwar Temple
  • Sula Vineyards
  • Junnar Tourism

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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tadoba national park nearest tourist places

Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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This looks thrilling experience.Loved your writing and narration, i felt i am in national park and aving those experiences. Tadoba seems great place for seeing tiger in wild.😍

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Wow – what a great experience! I”m used to reading about the typical African safari, but don’t think I”ve ever read something about a tiger safari. They are beautiful creatures! Glad you were able to see one.

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What an absolute thrill to see a Royal Bengal Tiger (twice) in Tadoba National Park. I love how you walked us through the 2 days. I felt like I was in the park too! Definitely high on my list to visit a Tiger Reserve in India.

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I have only heard about the likes of Bandhavgarh and Gir Forest National Parks. I did not know that there is such a high probability of seeing the tiger in Tadoba National Park. Added to my list for Maharashtra trip.

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I’m about to head to a safari (first time) in South Africa soon and after doing research, it seems that the animals of prey, especially the cats, are the hardest to spot. Amazing that it walked right through your caravan. Next time go for the leopard!

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What an incredible experience and a real bucket lister! You really got some amazing photos too of these really stunning animals. I particularly love the laguar, such a little cutie! Hopefully we can also visit when we get to India next year.

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You have such great wildlife pictures from your trip to Tadoba National Park! India has safaris, too!

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What a lovely adventure! I’d love to try visiting a National Park like this once: with animals of all kind wandering about in their natural habitat. I can just imagine the feeling of excitement when you spotted Chhota Matka. What a moment that must’ve been. I also liked the sustainable tips at the end. Great tips!

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Wow, I would love to see a tiger in the wild. That is extremely high on my bucket list. There is something about seeing an apex predator in their natural environment that you’ll never forget. They are so beautiful and powerful too. You realize soon that you are on their ground.

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Tadoba national park looks great for wildlife lovers. I was not knowing this wildlife national exists so near to Nagpur. Next time when I visit Nagpur, will surely look for this.

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What a gem, a bit in the middle of nowhere but that’s the beauty, isn’t it? I would love to find myself in total wilderness in Tadoba. The photos are quite stunning, thanks for sharing these tips. I look forward to the day I visit India!

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I had no idea there were that many tiger reserves in India!

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A tiger safari sounds like a great adventure. Your got some amazing pictures. I didn’t even know India had safaris.

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Insightful post about Tadoba National Park. Interesting information for wildlife enthusiasts

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Hi Ketki. It was a boring morning for me and i was just lying on my bed. Seeing bright sunlight outside my window, got me the feeling of reading something about nature and i came across your blog. I can’t thank you enough. Tadoba is awsome. I lived it through your words !

I am so happy to hear your words. I hope you can explore Tadoba in your own way, soon.

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I haven’t heard of this national park before but it looks stunning to visit!

[…] Tadoba National Park: An Experience Of A Lifetime […]

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tadoba national park nearest tourist places

5 must-see places to visit in Tadoba

  • Post author: intheigs-admin
  • Post published: September 21, 2021
  • Post category: Tadoba / Tadoba Activities / Tadoba Adventure / Tadoba Forts and Palaces / Travel

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, renowned as the Jewel of Vidarbha is undoubtedly the pride of Chandrapur district, Maharashtra. Tiger Reserve is surrounded by a diversified landscape like dense dry tropical southern forest, hillocks and Swampland. This reserve has rich wildlife which include leopards, sloth bears, reptiles, hyenas and a variety of species of birds. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) is the perfect wildlife destination for all the wildlife enthusiasts as it will not disappoint the excitement of sighting a Tiger. Our resort in Tadoba is privileged to be situated on the border of Tadoba’s Zari gate which is a more serene and undisturbed area of the park which makes the possibility of sighting the tiger higher.

Tadoba is not just for wildlife lovers, it also interests the tourists who are keen about historic monuments and age-old temples, Interestingly the Tadoba Andhari National Tiger Reserve got its name from God “Tadoba” or Taru is believed and worshiped by the Gond tribes, the tribes of Tadoba . Other than Tadoba tiger reserve there are many must-see places to visit in Tadoba, Sankatmochan Hanuman Mandir, Tadoba Lake, Shiv Mandir, and Urjanagar Lake tops the list of popular tourist places of Tadoba.

Below we have listed the 5 must-see places to visit in Tadoba to make your trip in Tadoba easy.

Mahakali Mandir

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

Mahakali Mandir is one of the ancient temples of Chandrapura city. According to the mythology, the kali idol which is in this temple was found near the Zarapat river and as per the command of the Gonda dynasty Queen Hirawati , the temple was forged and the idol was placed in the sanctum around the 16th century. The carving on the wall of this Mahakali temple is the blend of spectacular Hindu and Tibetian tradition.

Mahakali Mandir has two idols , the main standing idol along with a Shiva linga and second main idol situated in the ground level in the reclining pose is the goddess Mahakali Mata, the devotees should walk through the tunnel to see the goddess in the sanctum. The temple has two entrances, one entrance has lord Ganesha and Shani temple and the other rare entrance has Hanuman temple. Tuesday is marked as the auspicious day to visit this. Every year, on the eve of Hanuman jayanthi, the temple will be crowded by the pilgrims

Tourists who travel to Andhari tiger reserve via Moharli gate don’t miss to visit this famous temple and this temple is just 38km away from the Tadoba Tiger Reserve.

Chandrapur Fort

Chandrapur Fort

The ancient forts of Chandrapura city take the tourists back to the legacy of the Gond Dynasty. One such fort is the Chandrapur fort, which is in the confluence of Irai and Zarpat rivers. In the 13th century, Gond King Khandkya Ballal Sah initiated the construction of this massive fort but this was completed by the king Dhundya Ram Sah in the 16th Century. This huge stone structure has glorious and detailed carvings on the walls and it is elevated to 15-20 feet high.

There are 8 gates to the forts, namely Jatpura Gate(north), Anchaleshwar(east), Pathanpura(south) and Binba Gate(west) , Bagad Khidki(northeast) , Hanuman Khidki (southeast), Vithoba Khidki(southwest) and Chor Khidki (northwest). Interesting part of the fort is that it has mausoleums built in the memory of Gond kings and these mausoleums are adjecent to the Anchaleshwara temple which is inside the fort complex. The significant mausoleum is that which was built by Queen Rani Hirai in the memory of her husband, who ruled the Gond Dynasty around 1704. From Tadoba Tiger Reserve, Chandrapur fort is at a distance of 37 Km.

Balaji Mandir

Balaji Mandir

Hari Balaji temple was built way back 350years ago during the rule of Bhosales. Balaji temple is the most significant temple of Chandrapur district and one of the most visited places in Chimur . The Balaji idol is similar to the Venkateshwara idol of Thirupati.

Every year during the Full Moon of Magha Shuddha trayodashi “Ghoda Yatra” festival is celebrated in this temple, in which the colorful procession goes through the roads of Chimur, large number of localities and pilgrims attend this Ghoda Yatra and seeking the blessings of the lord Balaji. This temple is in Chimur which is around 30km from Tadoba Tiger Reserve.

Manikgarh Fort

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

Manikgarh or Manikgad or Gadchandur is an ancient fort of Chandrapur District. Manikgarh fort is a hill fort which is 507 metres above the sea level, it was buit by the last king of Mana Naga – Gahilu in the 9th century. The Manikagad fort derived its name from the patron deity of Mana Nagas – Manikadevi, but in later days it was called Manikgad.

Inside the fort, we can witness the water tank built to store water, living quarters, storehouses and in the down valley we can see the cannon built with iron strap that had fallen from the embankment wall. Today Manikgarh is a symbol of strong fortification of the historic days . As the fort is almost in ruins, wildlife wander there after sunset, so it is advised to tourists to visit this fort in groups.

Manikgarh Fort is in a place called Gadchandur, it’s about 85 km away from Tadoba Tiger Reserve.

Ballarpur Fort

Ballarpur Fort Chandrapur

Ballarpur Fort is also called as Ballarshah Fort is located in Ballarpur City, it’s on the east bank of river Wardha. Ballarpur Fort was built by the Gond king Kandhakya Ballal Sah(1437-62) who was the successor of Ser Sah. Ballal Sah was also the founder of the Chandrapur city, he also found the holy water pond called Ankaleshwarth Tirth which healed the boils and tumors of the King.

Ballarpur Fort was constructed of large black stones and was a sign of defense of those times. The fort is in the rectangle shape, though the old building is ruined, the bastion walls are still intact. Ballarpur Fort is 50km away from the Tadoba Tiger Reserve and just 37 km away from our resort in Tadoba

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tadoba national park nearest tourist places

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Complete travel guide to tadoba national park.

Complete Travel Guide To Tadoba National Park

About Tadoba

Nagpur is often called the tiger capital of India because it is accessible to most of the Tiger reserves. Tadoba National Park is one of the reserves, moreover, it is the largest national park in Maharashtra. It is in the Chandrapur district, the place which is also known for its super thermal station. The forest is spread across 645 square kilometres and has more than 10 zones to plan for safari posing a complexity to plan for an effective safari trip. Hence, we came up with the complete travel guide to Tadoba National Park.

History of Tadoba National Park :

Tadoba National Park was established in 1935, however, it got the status of National Park in 1955. The national park is now a part of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger reserve that was formed in 1995.

‘Tadoba’ comes from the name of the God ‘Tadoba’ or ‘Taru’ and the local tribes of the Andhari and Tadoba region used to worship ‘Taru’. The local tribes believe that ‘Taru’, the chief of the village was killed in a legendary encounter with a Tiger. The local tribal, then made a shrine and dedicated that shrine as ‘Taru’ God which is existing on the bank of the Tadoba Lake beneath a huge tree. So local people of that area used to worship Taru as God.

  Flora and Fauna at Tadoba National Park :

Tadoba National Park is abundant in flora and fauna. Notable trees that are found here, that are a common sight in every dry deciduous forest. Teak, Bija, Hald, Salai, Semal, Tendu, Beheda, Hirda, Karaya gum, Mahua Madhuca, Arjun, Ain, Bamboo, Bheria, Black Plum, Dhauda are few to be named.

How to book safari in Bandipur?

And know more answers about bandipur.

When it comes to fauna, the major attraction is always the Royal Bengal Tiger. The current reports from the forest department state that there are 109 in the core and buffer areas of the forest reserve. Besides tigers, one can spot leopards, sloth bears, gaur, nilgai, dhole, striped hyena, small Indian civet, jungle cats, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, chital, marsh crocodile, Indian python, Indian cobra, grey-headed fish eagle, crested serpent eagle, peacock, jewel beetles, wolf spiders and many more.

flora and fauna at Tadoba National Park

Zones and Gates Of Tadoba National Park :

There are approximately 15 gates in Tadoba National Park.

Core Gates Of Tadoba National Park :

  • Moharli gate
  • Khutwanda gate
  • Navegaon gate
  • Kolara gate
  • Kolsa – Zari gate
  • Pangdi gate
  • Buffer gates:
  • Alizanza zone
  • Devada Adegaon gates
  • Agarzari gates
  • Junona gates
  • Kolara Buffer gate
  • Ramdegi Buffer gate

Tadoba park is divided into 3 safari zones:

  • Tadoba zone
  • Moharli zone

Get to know more of the zones and gates of Tadoba and which gate to choose for your nest safari.

Gates And Zones Of Tadoba

Types of safaris in Tadoba-

Jeep safari at tadoba :.

Shared or exclusive jeep to choose for. This safari type is with a 4×4 Gypsy that can accommodate up to 6 tourists. Further, exclusive option has 2 types; restricted (3 hours) to one zone and full day safari where you can explore the entire forest irrespective of the zone.

Canter Safari At Tadoba :

A single canter can accommodate up to 20 tourists. Shared option is available under canter safari option and is the most economical option to explore the woods. 

Safari Timings Of Tadoba National Park

Morning safari – 6 AM to 9 AM

Evening safari – 3 PM to 6 PM

Safaris At Tadoba

Types of Accommodations At Tadoba-

With around 12 zones to the forest reserve, Tadoba offers a wide range of accommodations near its entry gates. At Wildtrails, we suggest you choose the gate first to explore the jungle, book them and then proceed with choosing the accommodations. More details on choosing the best accommodations at https://wildtrails.in/

We at Wildtrails have 3 types of accommodations. The safari package cost varies depending on the type of accommodation you look out for. However, the properties listed on our portal are of top level, ensuring every buck you spend is worth it.

Budget category :

It has all the basic-level facilities at the lodge and the prices are lower when compared to other types. The comfort level can be expected on the lower end. Budget Ranged Resorts In Tadoba

Mid-Range Category :

It has little higher amenities when compared to the budget level lodges. While the budget level accommodation can be compared with features of a hatchback car, the services in mid-range accommodation can be compared with that of a sedan. Get The Complete List Of Mid Range Resorts Of Tadoba National Park

Luxury Category :

Luxury Range Resorts Of Tadoba National Park consists of top-level facilities and amenities where the priority is given to the comfort level and top-notch quality of service. The services in the mid-range accommodation can be compared to commuting in a basic sedan car, while the services in the luxury type accommodation can be compared with commuting in a luxury car like Mercedes.

Places To Stay at Tadoba

Nearby Attractions At Tadoba National Park :

Known as an earthfill and gravity dam on Irai River, Erai Dam is located next to Chandrapur and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is of 1620 meters in length.

Tadoba lake :

Tadoba lake has more than 200 species of birds to look out for. It is ideal for the bird lovers to head over here particularly in the morning or late evening.

Flagship Species :

The big 5 of Tadoba – Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, gaur and dhole are the ones to look out for while on safari. Having a better expert tracker would mean better sightings of these.

Reasons To Book Your Holiday With WildTrails-

1)  Dedicated platform for wildlife holiday.

2)  No travel agent commission involved. Direct price from the resorts, hence, the best price in the market.

3)  No middlemen, no additional commissions, no unnecessary markups, the best competitive rates you can ever get, and the best part is you connect directly with the Resorts/Hotels

To know more and to get a full list of jungle/nature resorts, please click https://wildtrails.in

Now you have the complete travel guide to explore Tadoba National Park, head over to our website to book your trip and have the best itinerary and packages for your adventure.

WildTrails

Frequently Asked Questions about Tadoba-

How to reach tadoba.

Nearest airport to reach Tadoba is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. There are flights that fly here from the major tier 1, tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Tadoba National Park is around 150 km from here and there are private taxi services from the airport.

The roads are well connected from all the major cities. There are public transport from cities like Nagpur, Chandrapur and Chimur.

The nearest railway station is Chandrapur which is around 45 km from the park.

2. Which is the Best Gate in Tadoba For Safari ?

There is no gate that is termed as the best. An expert tiger tracker along with you can help you better the chance of wildlife sightings. Check out more details of the gates and which gate to choose for at https://wildtrails.in

3. Which river flows in Tadoba National Park?

A river flows across the Andhari region and so this river is known as Andhari river.

4.  How many Tigers are there in Tadoba National Park?

The buffer and the core areas of Tadoba National Park is estimated to have 115 tigers and 151 leopards. This is as per the latest report on ‘Status of Tigers, co-predators and prey in TATR’.

5. When is the best time to visit Tadoba ?

The best time to visit Tadoba for safari would be from October to June. July to September would not be a good time due to rains.

Weather from October to February is expected to be extremely cold, particularly during morning safari. It is strongly recommended to plan your attire accordingly.

The weather during March to June is expected to be dry and humid.

6. What are the things that need to be carried while on a safari in Tadoba?

Lot of things are to be carried for the safari. The topmost thing to be carried out would be drinking water. The safari would either be in the morning or during afternoon and you can expect the humidity to be high. Sunscreen lotion, hat, sunglasses are the necessities. Never carry liquor or tobacco while on safari.

Do not forget to carry your camera because you don’t want to miss out the rarest sighting.

7. What to wear while on safari in Tadoba

Wear light-coloured clothes while on safari. Carry rain jackets since the rains are unpredictable here. We recommend you carry gloves, sweaters, warm caps, mufflers during winter.

With 4 years of Sightings data + Extensive expert tracker network in jungles, our customers had the best wildlife experiences.

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47 Top things to do in Tadoba National Park

Last Updated on July 7, 2023 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

There are so many amazing things to do in Tadoba National Park, which is also known as the Jewel of Vidarbha . The scenic destinations in and around Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve make for an ideal picnic spot, best enjoyed with friends and family. Spread across a whooping 1727 square kilometre, Tadoba National Park, located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, was created in the year 1955. It was integrated with the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1995 and this is why they are together known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was created in the year 1986. The Andhari part here is christened after the gorgeous Andhari River.

Every time my friends ask me to describe in detail my visit to Tadoba National Park, I just share this detailed guide to the best things to do in Tadoba National Park. It is the most comprehensive guide on Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve ever.

Jeep Tiger Safari in Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park, sure lived up to its reputation for great wildlife sightings when I experienced it myself. It was my first ever visit to Tadoba National Park and I was rewarded with a good view of the tigers and other wild animals and birds.

For the morning safari , I visited the core zone of the popular Khutwanda gate and for the night safari on the next day, I explored the buffer zone Navegaon Ramdego gate .

The total number of vehicles that are allowed to drive through each of the six gates are limited. These rules are strictly monitored which is why, you must book a safari jeep way in advance. In my case, Pugdundee Safaris booked the jeep for me much before I even landed in the Nagpur airport. This, despite the last-minute request and low availability of the jeeps. Pugdundee Safaris is a leading chain of wildlife hotels and one of the best safari operators in India.

It is mandatory to hire a guide from the gate. Their place in the jeep is designated and strictly monitored, so do not ask them to shift their seats. The local wildlife guides are aware of the movement of tigers and know the best places where the probability of spotting tigers is high. This is why tiger safari is the top thing to do in Tadoba National Park.

Chase the leopard in Tadoba

While spotting a leopard is super thrilling, nothing compares coming face to face with the star of Tadoba National Park, i.e. the melanistic leopard known as Blackie. The Black Melanistic Leopard is very hard to spot but not impossible. Many tourists have spotted blackie which has only added to the popularity of Tadoba National Park as a top wildlife destination in India. A melanistic leopard is a rare breed of leopard which is seen off late in Tadoba.  

Thanks to the excess melanin in its skin and fur, Blackie appears to be entirely black in colour. But you will realise that is not the case when you observe the skin tones attentively. Pictures and videos of Blackie keeps going viral on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and Instagram. You can see the videos and pictures of Blackie on the Instagram handle of Pugdundee Safaris .

Do a canter Safari in Tadoba National Park

If you are in a large group or on a budget travel, you can also book a seat in a canter, which is a larger bus like vehicle, often without a roof for better viewing. Many people on low budget book the 22-seater mini buses or canters to drive around the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. The canter vans provide good views of the wildlife though it can be a bit problematic if the tiger chooses to appear on one side of the canter, blocking the view of those sitting on the other side.

Hire a telephoto lens for wildlife photography

I had also hired a 100-400 mm lens from a local service provider. It made all the difference. I do not shoot wildlife more than 1-2 times in a year, so it makes sense for me to rent a lens than to buy one and maintain it, protect it from fungus etc. I hired the lens from the local service provider in Tadoba, and not from my home city New Delhi as it saved cost for me. I would have had to pay for 5-6 days, had I hired the expensive telephoto lens from New Delhi, while I just paid for 1 safari when I hired from Tadoba National Park itself.

Appreciate other wildlife of Tadoba

Observing the wild animals and birds in their natural habitat is indeed a satisfying experience. Yes, tiger is important but jungle safaris are not only about the tigers. I also equally excited to be able to spot gaurs, marsh crocodiles, fungoid frogs, tree frogs, wild boars, dancing peacocks, Hanuman langur, spotted deer (why not? Do you know them well?), sambar, Indian roller, Indian pitta and others. Keep your eyes and ears open and the jungle will surprise you.

Which animals and birds are found in Tadoba National Park? Apart from Royal Bengal Tigers, you can also spot the below

Mammals of Tadoba National Park

  • Sloth bears
  • Striped Hyena
  • Jungle Cats
  • Indian Gaur
  • Barking Deer
  • Indian leopards
  • Nilgai or blue ox
  • Small Indian Civet
  • Hanuman Langoor
  • Dhole or wild dogs
  • Black Panther (Rare)
  • Chital or Spotted Deer
  • Flying Squirrel aka Indian giant squirrel or Malabar giant squirrel

Reptiles of Tadoba Andhari Tiger reserve

Which reptiles are found in Tadoba National Park?

  • Indian Cobra
  • Russel’s viper
  • Indian Python
  • Marsh Crocodile
  • Indian star tortoise
  • Indian monitor lizard

Birds of Tadoba National Park

A whooping 195 species of birds have been observed in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. 3 endangered species of birds also call Tadoba home. Some of the most easily seen birds in Tadoba National Park are as under.

  • Indian Pitta
  • Indian roller
  • Stone curlew
  • Common iora
  • Indian nightjar
  • Red-naped ibis
  • Rufous treepie
  • Brown Fish Owl
  • Indian white-eye
  • Painted francolin
  • Crested treeswift
  • Mottled wood owl
  • Black-hooded oriole
  • Common woodshrike
  • Crested Serpent Eagle
  • Black-naped monarch
  • Tawny bellied babbler
  • Yellow-wattled lapwing
  • Grey-headed Fish Eagle
  • Crested Honey Buzzard
  • Indian paradise flycatcher
  • Bronze winged Jacana
  • Orange headed thrush
  • Changeable hawk-eagle
  • Lesser Goldenbacked woodpecker

Spiders and others creatures in Tadoba Andhari Tiger reserve

Monsoon is a good time to spot below spiders and insects:

  • Lynx spiders
  • Crab spiders
  • Wolf Spiders
  • Signature spider
  • Giant wood spider
  • Dragonflies
  • Stick Insects
  • Jewel beetles
  • Praying mantis

Butterflies in Tadoba National Park

74 various species of butterflies have been observed in Tadoba National Park. Some of them are as below:

  • Lime butterfly
  • Pansy butterfly
  • Danaid egg-fly
  • Great egg-fly
  • Monarch butterfly
  • Mormons butterfly
  • Swordtails butterfly
  • Common emigrant butterfly

Soul Window Firsts

Though, I was not lucky enough to spot the pack of wild dogs or dholes in the Tadoba National Park, I had my first views of the dholes on my 2 nd morning safari in the nearby Pench National Park on the same road trip . I even saw my first leopard in wild in Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh . Do read my detailed guides on things to do in Pench National Park and birdwatching in Pench .

Birdwatching in Tadoba National Park

The rivers, rivulets, lakes and ponds in and around Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve are great hot spots if birding excites you. It is very easy to spot raptors such as white-eyed buzzards, Oriental honey buzzards in and around the lakes of Tadoba. In fact, I had very good sighting of Indian roller and Indian pitta from a close distance. You can also spot angelic paradise flycatchers by the lakes. In winters, you can also see migratory birds apart from the endemic birds at the lakes of Tadoba. Herons and egrets are also commonly seen.

The hide at Waghoba Eco Lodge provides ample opportunities to enjoy birdwatching without going very far. I noticed countless barn swallows resting in the shadow of the swimming pool area of Waghoba Eco Lodge. I also noticed several sunbirds restlessly flitting from one branch to another. Nightjars are also commonly seen in and around the property. The Waghoba Eco Lodge has incorporated a small pond in its design which attracts birds and even mammals like a fox family who live nearby. I saw an otter too. Also, keep your eyes peeled for crested serpent eagle and crested hawk eagle while doing the jeep safari in the core zone.

On a morning birdwatching trail , led by Mr. Mandhar, the in-house naturalist, we spotted many birds such as parakeets, ring dove, spotted dove, Indian robin, yellow throated sparrow, weaver birds, pallied harriers , and also many wild hares scurrying about hurriedly as a bonus. Rose ring parakeet , plum headed parakeet and Alexandrine parakeet are also commonly spotted here. We did the birdwatching on foot, right outside the Waghoba Eco Lodge. I saw many Alexandrine parakeets residing in the walls ofthe imposing Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Visit Butterfly World

The open-air butterfly garden and the information centre, located near the lesser-known Agarzari gate is one of the best offbeat places to see in and around Tadoba National Park. I remember visiting the Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden in Thane near Mumbai . The butterfly park of Tadoba is a must-see place for adults and kids alike. There is so much you can learn about butterflies within few hours. Many people skip butterfly due to lack or prior information or paucity of time. But now that you know that butterfly park indeed is a hidden gem of Tadoba, you may want to plan and extend few more days to include this lesser-known tourist attraction.

How to reach the butterfly park of Tadoba? The butterfly park called as butterfly world falls on the route as you drive on the main road from the Moharali gate to Chandrapur . Thanks to the numerous host & nectar plants which are thoughtfully chosen for this park, it attracts various endemic species of butterflies. Some of the 74 species of butterflies found in Tadoba are the pansy butterfly, swordtails butterfly, monarch butterfly, lime butterfly, common emigrant butterfly, Danaid egg-fly and Mormons butterfly.

Admire the landscape of Tadoba National Park

The dense forest area , smooth meadows, grassy knolls, umpteen lakes, random water bodies and deep valleys of Tadoba National Park are itself a destination. So even if you fail to spot the Royal Bengal tigers (which is unlikely) then admiring the beauty of Tadoba alone is worth it. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is so vast that various areas look dramatically different from each other. For example, while Dhauna , is a dirt road flanked on either side by a steep vegetated cliff and the Bhanuskhindi river , the area around Tadoba Lake and Telia lake is drastically different. It is also common to see vast patches of grasslands interspersed with dense vertical jungles.

Night Safari in Tadoba National Park

Night Safari is one of the top things to do in Tadoba National Park. Ever since it was launched, it has gained popularity with the wildlife enthusiasts. There are very few national parks in India where night safari is allowed and Tadoba Andhari Tiger reserve is one of them.

The exciting night safari we did in Tadoba Tiger Reserve was once in a lifetime experience. It was my first night safari ever. Call it beginner’s luck or something else, I was lucky enough to see my first wild civet cats (2 of them) and jungle cat. I also spotted uncountable Indian wild hare scurrying about in the undergrowth besides some easy spotting of wild boars and Indian gaur . A large species of owl flew right above our head.

Read more details in my complete guide to night safari in Tadoba National Park .

Hire a naturalist from Waghoba Eco Lodge

The experienced set of well-educated, English-speaking naturalists of Waghoba Eco Lodge besides accompanying you on wildlife safaris (on request) in Tadoba National Park, also hold daily presentations, sessions at the bird hide and storytelling hours with kids.

Shaheen Shaikh, the resident naturalist at Waghoba Eco Lodge giving us company on all the jeep safaris in Tadoba made all the difference. She was smart, erudite, English speaking and never leaves a question unanswered. Impressed with her vast knowledge on wildlife, I even suggested that she should write a book on the wild. I have done wildlife safaris in many other Indian national parks but never before did I come across such brilliant naturalists. Gaurav and Mandhar were equally knowledgeable about wildlife and local flora.

Apart from interesting information, hard facts and trivia which Shaheen shared about the wild animals, birds and plants, she also regaled us with stories from the jungles. The story of the famous Maya tigress for example kept us hooked. Do you need more reasons why you should hire a naturalist during safari?

Visit Waghoba Temples

Not many know that people from the Gond tribal community who live on the periphery of Tadoba National Park worship Waghoba . The purposely kitschy idol of the tiger, locally called as Wagh caught my attention as I ambled through the dirt paths. Needless to say, the Waghoba Eco Lodge is christened after the local tiger deity Waghoba.While Wagh means tiger, ba is a common local suffix which is used to convey respect.Roaring on a raised platform , on a green slab, Waghoba is surrounded by metallic trishuls or tridents.It is a reminder of how the local people of India have always co-existed with the wild peacefully since times immemorial.

There are many such stone idols of tigers who are worshipped by the locals in the forests areas and village squares that surround Tadoba National Park. You may even club visiting a Waghoba temple while returning from the morning safari. Alternatively, leave early for the evening safari to include a visit here in your Tadoba National Park itinerary.

Soul Window Observations

It is one of the most unusual temples I have visited, much like my visit to the unusual Om Banna Temple near Jodhpur in Rajasthan . Whether it is the people’s comfort living with the Cobra snakes in Agumbe or several villages which were once located inside the Tadoba National Park, Pench National Park or Jim Corbett National Park etc. Much of the fear towards wild animals is in the media and movies. In the real jungles of India , local people respect, protect and worship the wild.

Study local fauna of Tadoba National Park

The local fauna of Tadoba National Park which enables great sightings and good visibility of wild animals and birds is one of the reasons why Tadoba National Park is so popular with wildlife lovers. Shaheen Shaikh, our in-house naturalist from Pugdundee Safaris, told me that its mostly teak trees and bamboo which dominate the landscape of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve which is mostly southern tropical dry deciduous forest with dense woodlands .

Thanks to the dry forests and open grasslands of Tadoba National Park, it is comparatively easier to spot tiger and other wildlife in Tadoba. This was proven when I had a clear sighting of the famous tigress Bijli with her two cubs in the grasslands of the Jamni Lake.

There are many such interesting trees found in the dry deciduous forest. Each of these trees play a role in the ecosystem and merit a separate study.

Below are the trees and other plant lives found in Tadoba National Park

  • Kach Kajuli
  • Wodier Tree
  • Mahua Madhuca
  • Various species of Bamboo
  • Ain, aka black murdah or crocodile-bark tree

Learn about medicinal plants of Tadoba

On a nature trail in and around Tadoba National Park, you can also get well versed with the natural medicinal benefits of certain plants and trees. For example, climber kach kujali , which is also known as velvet bean which is abundantly found in Tadoba National Park is a medicinal plant used in the treatment of the Parkinson’s disease. Beheda also has immense medicinal value. Similarly, Bija is a medicinal gum and Bheria leaves serve as natural insect repellent. The local indigenous tribes around the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve have been aware of the medicinal usages of such endemic plants and trees since times immemorial. This is one of the best things to do in the Tadoba National Park.

Stay in a luxury resort in Tadoba National Park

Where to stay in Tadoba National Park? The vast stretch of grassland extending on all the sides of the Waghoba Eco Lodge was my favourite feature of this eco conscious property. What makes Waghoba Eco Lodge one of the best hotels in Tadoba National Park is the balance they strike between environment and luxury. In my opinion, it is the best example of responsible luxury .

The beautiful and minimalist interiors have nicely assimilated local aesthetics into the design. The dark reclaimed teakwood used in the furniture sits well with my taste. The hanging lamps help in modifying the ambiance in the room. The writing desk is located right behind the king-sized bed. I also spent time reading in the alcove in one of the walls of the cozy room. The best part is that there is no TV here. The idea is to keep you focussed on the wildlife instead of the routine things you do back home. It works out well for me as I have purposely not owned a TV since the year 2007.

My personal favourite is the sit out area separated from my spacious room with a sliding glass door. “Overlooking the kitchen garden, it looked gorgeous few days ago, when the field was full of sunflowers” Shaheen told me.

What I also found worthy of my attention was the fact that Waghoba Eco Lodge has taken conscious steps towards rewilding the land with native species. Large water bodies have been incorporated well in the design of this property which spreads across a whooping 12 acres.

I have visited many luxury resorts in most of the well-known National Parks of India and rarely have I seen something like this. Instead of manicured gardens and pathways paved with tiles, the property management made a conscious decision to keep the things wild, untamed and natural. Wild grass is allowed to grow and the pathways are all dirt tracks, keeping it as close to nature as possible. This is also why room service is not available in the villas, as the leftovers may attract insects and small animals . Most of the trees planted across the resort are native. What is also impressive about Waghoba Eco Lodge is the fact that it aims to employ at least 50% females, preferably from the neighbouring village. I have rarely seen any other property commit to gender equality.

To add, the staff here made special effort to make my stay memorable. Whether it is the naturalist Shaheen Sheikh (from Hyderabad), Gaurav and Mandhar, Mr. Ghanshyan Singh, Shreya Parab (front office) from Mumbai the chefs, service team or the alert housekeeping staff, everyone went out of their way to make our experience smooth.

What sets Waghoba Eco Lodge apart from the other hotels in Tadoba National Park is the fact that instead of crowding near the Khutwanda Gate, it is built on a land where you can see only wilderness, green mountains, open fields. Located in the Bhadravathi tehsil of the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra , there is no other nearby building in sight. Though located in the buffer zone and at walking distance from the border of core zone, it truly is akin to staying in the jungle, much like my stay in the offbeat Kidepo National Park in Uganda . “Watch out for the lion when you go to the restaurant.” I was told by my African host.  

Address of Waghoba Eco Lodge: Waghoba Eco Lodge, Wadala Tukum Village, Bhadravati Tehsil, Chandrapur District, Maharashtra – 442906

Be a responsible traveller in Tadoba

Reform. Coexist. Sustain. This is the mantra that Pugdundee resorts follows and inspires us to follow as well. Waghoba Eco Lodge, which was my doorway to the tiger country promotes responsible and sustainable eco-tourism in Tadoba National Park. This is one of the reasons why Waghoba Eco Lodge, committed towards minimizing their carbon footprint, is undisputedly one of the best resorts in Tadoba National Park.

Their commitment to green architecture has already won Waghoba Eco Lodge many awards and accolades. When Mr. Ghanshyam Singh, the manager at this beautiful hotel in Tadoba National Park escorted me to my spacious villa, he diverted my attention to the handmade adobe earth bricks made from local soil and vaulted ceilings made from handmade conical tiles . As I lied down on my bed, I noticed the unusual Guna vault roof tiles on the ceiling. These interlocking earthen tiles made from locally available materials help keep the rooms cooler. This is much needed respite because temperatures in the Vidarbha region can soar up to 50 degrees centigrade in peak summer months.

These structural features of the room in this sustainable safari lodge are in tune with the local customs and architecture. You will find many similarities in the homes of the local tribal villages and the villas of Waghoba Eco Lodge if you pay attention. Mr Ghanshyam told me that each bedroom in the villa faces east and the bathrooms face west. Thanks to this architectural design, the rooms doesn’t get very hot in the summer. I noticed the same as I visited in the peak of summer in mid-June. This also helps in reducing the power consumption because only 2 tons ACs are required instead of the 4 tons ones. Since the room is huge, this comes across as a good design element.

This style of architecture also keeps the rooms cooler even in hot weather outside. The water management systems which include Phytroid Sewage Treatment Plant, Rain Water Harvesting and ground water recharge also keeps the environment healthy.

What’s more? Much of this 14-villa property was constructed by local workers using the locally available raw materials. Not only did this provide employment to the local people but also kept the carbon footprint low, which is one of the primary goals of Waghoba Eco Lodge by Pugdundee Safaris. Add to this, the energy-efficient cooling and sustainable lighting fixtures and we have a winner at hand.

The folks at Waghoba Eco Lodge aren’t merely doing lip service. They walk the talk. They mean it when they say that responsible tourism in Tadoba National Park is their priority. I was able to notice the sustainable approach they have through small details. For example, I was pleasantly surprised to see a reusable rubber bathroom slipper in the wardrobe instead of disposable ones. Most hotel rooms keep ‘use-and-throw’ flip flops which only add to the carbon footprint.

Similarly, instead of plastic bottles, we were gifted a nice reusable metallic bottle which could be refilled again and again with safe, filtered water upon request. 100% organic linen & toiletries stocked in the cherry only add to the steps Waghoba Eco Lodge has taken into consideration. I didn’t see a single plastic bottle or container. The bath gels, shampoos and hand wash are stored in a glass dispenser. Even the dental kit is made entirely of the eco-friendly bamboo. Not only are the dustbins lined with newspapers instead of plastic bags but the carry bags are also made up of newspapers here. The khaki-coloured tissues made from recycled paper also caught my attention.

Besides 4.5 acres of land where they grow their own vegetables and herbs in a sustainable manner, the property also makes some good use of the freely available solar energy . The solar energy plant is located next to the kitchen garden. It meets their power requirements easily as this region gets ample sunlight throughout the year.

What’s more? The washroom area also has a small pebbled area with a plant which receives ample sunlight through the glass window in the ceiling. I didn’t even switch on the lights during the day. Even the room has a huge sliding door which allows ample sunlight, reducing the need to switch on the lights. Now you know why Waghoba Eco Lodge is one of the best sustainable safari lodges in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. They even won the Indian Responsible Tourism Awards 2022 . They are counted as sustainable leadership hotels for a reason.

See lakes of Tadoba National Park

The probability of spotting a tiger lying lazily in the natural or man-made water sources of Tadoba Ntaional Park is high, especially in the peak of summer months such as April, May and June. I visited Tadoba in mid-June, which is why we headed to Telia lake near Moharli gate in search of Tigress Sonam and her young cubs.

There are many natural lakes, rivers, rivulets and man-made ponds in Tadoba National Park which serve as abundant water sources for the wild animals , birds , reptiles , insects and amphibians . The beautiful Kolsa Lake , and Tadoba River are also major attractions of Tadoba. Telia lake, the huge Tadoba lake and Jamni lake are the three major lakes of Tadoba which are also known for great sightings of tigers and other animals and birds. For example, we saw the crocodile in the scenic Tadoba lake, tigress Bijli in Jamni lake and darter in the picturesque Telia lake. Tadoba lake is so huge and full of water in even the peak summer months that it alone meets the daily needs of all the local creatures. People also head to Irai lake for birdwatching. It is also easy to spot crocodiles here. These are some of the most popular tourist attractions to see in Tadoba National Park.

Cycling in Tadoba National Park

Cycling is a must-do in the array of activities in and around Tadoba National Park. It is a good idea to hire a cycle from the Waghoba Eco Lodge, and explore the forest and the village area surrounding the resort for a more immersive experience. Watch out for the nightjars, sitting camouflaged on the roads though. Alternatively, you can also enjoy cycling on a 7 km long nature trail at the buffer zone at Pardi near Mohurli Gate. A scenic stretch beside the famed Irai Lake is also popular with cyclists. In summers, early morning or evening is the best time for cycling as it gets very hot in the Vidarbha region in afternoon.

The eco tourist cycle trails are the best way to enjoy Tadoba without leaving any carbon footprints while keeping you physically fit. The feel of the cool breeze on your face while listening to the chirps of the birds out to forage food is cherry on the cake. On a previous wildlife trip , I enjoyed cycling in Jim Corbett National Park too. Enjoying few hours with nature all by myself is so soul satisfying.

Go trekking in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

The small hill of Jamunbodi, descending sharply to a pool ringed by trees, is a popular trek route which you may want to take. A day trek through this elevated grassland is one of the top adventurous activities you can do in Tadoba National Park. There are many such routes which have immense potential for exciting hikes and walks through the forest but are not formalised yet. You may want to check locally about the official trekking trails around Tadoba because they keep adding new ones. Some trek routes may even close if tiger movement is observed.

Go for a swim

It can get very hot in summer months. The Virarbha region of Maharashtra is anyways known for its hot summers. What better way to beat the heat by jumping into a plush swimming pool during afternoon when safaris are not conducted. The Swimming pool of Waghoba Eco Lodge is located right below its lounge area and overlooks mountains and open fields. And who knows which animals you may end up spotting while you take a dip in the comforting waters of the pool? Birds and animal sightings are very common around the pool area which is strategically located next to a pond and hide.

Sample local vegan and vegetarian cuisine

The organic herbal and vegetable garden of Waghoba Eco Lodge gives a meaning to farm to table. Much of the ingredients used in the kitchen of the sole restaurant here is sourced from the home-grown kitchen garden where they grow Indian and exotic vegetables and herbs. The best part is that you can also customise your meal, if you want it to be free of nuts, gluten or dairy etc.

I sampled three thalis at Waghoba Eco Lodge, namely

  • Varadhi thali from the Vidarbha region
  • Maharashtrian Thali
  • Hyderabadi Thali

My vegetarian Varadhi thali included dishes such as dry garlic chutney, carrot koshambir, besan kadhi, Patwadi rassa or patodi rasa (barfi shaped dumplings made with dahi and besan ), paneer dahi masala, batata bhindi bhaji and jowar papad .

My vegetarian Maharashtrian thali included usal, amti (lentils cooked with tamarind and jaggery), cabbage, tomato, moong dal koshambir , groundtnut chutney, mixed vegetable, papad and salad.

My vegetarian Hyderabadi thali included tomato pickle, creamy Burani Raita with fried garlic and roasted cumin powder, salan , mixed vegetable, paneer do pyaza , fried karela aka Kakarakaya Vepudu (I will try this at home!), Hyderabadi Kachchi Biryani topped with fried onion,

I was impressed when the service staff served me the local dishes in the traditional hand-made Kansa thalis with the beverage of the day such as the mauve-hued, digestive Solkadhi made with Kokum . You can sample the spicy Saoji curries in the Varadhi thali .

For the dinner, you can order Indian, Oriental and Continental cuisines from the à la carte menu. What’s more? They even have a menu for the kids. We had paneer rezala , mixed vegetable and the Bengali sukhto (my favourite!) on the first dinner in the restaurant.

For breakfast, I was delighted when the chef told me that he has made Sabudana Khichdi and thalipeeth , my favourite Maharashtrian dishes. I lived in Sanpada, Navi Mumbai for 7 years and this is why I love Maharashtrian food a bit too much! Now that Indians are waking up to the benefits of adding millets to our diet, it has also started to show up in the menu of luxury hotels such as Waghoba Eco Lodge. For example, jowar chila , millet salads and ukadpendi , which is cooked with Jowar atta is regularly served for breakfast besides the homemade porridge and delicious snacks of Maharashtra such as Kothimbir vada and batata vada . Their in-house bakery also ensures a constant supply of muffins and fruit cakes etc. The packed breakfast to be had inside the Tadoba National Park, included cheese sandwiches, rolls, fruits cakes, muffins, cookies, tea, lemonade etc.

The beautifully presented desserts here are worth writing home about. No wonder, I used to look forward to the desserts on each day. On the first night at Waghoba Eco Lodge, the coffee ice cream and mishti doi served in a clay pot transported me to a food coma. The mildly sweet millet barfi served with kesar pista ice cream was served after the thalis . You may want to request for their delicious modak too!

Saoji cuisine

Waghoba Eco Lodge serves authentic Saoji cuisine. I love spicy and fiery food which Saoji cuisine is famed for. However, being a vegetarian, my options were limited because Saoji cuisine is traditionally meat heavy. Available in Nagpur, roadside dhabas on highways and various hotels and restaurants around Tadoba National Park, Saoji cuisine is very popular. However, not everyone finds it exciting because Saoji dishes are very spicy.

Soji cuisine comes from the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Members of the Halba Koshtis tribe, a community of weavers are credited with the inventors of Saoji cuisine. Aeons ago, they migrated from the adjoining Madhya Pradesh to Nagpur in Maharashtra seeking jobs in the Empress Mill .  Needless to say, brought along their food culture.

Unique to this region, Saoji is referred to a particular style of cooking. What makes Saoji cuisine so unusual is the unique blending and balancing of wet and dry spices. Cold pressed linseed oil is used to prepare authentic Saoji dishes. Thanks to the popularity of Saoji cuisine, many restaurants claiming to serve authentic versions have mushroomed up in the Nagpur and Vidarbha region. Some have even toned down the spice levels. This is why, be warned of the fake versions of Saoji cuisine.

Visit Tadoba Lake: Best place to see in Tadoba National Park

Tadoba Lake itself is so beautiful and vast that it merits a visit. Even if you fail to spot a tiger, the stunning scenery around Tadoba Lake will make up for it. Though you are not allowed to step out of the safari jeep, you can still appreciate the tranquil lake from a distance because it is located within the core zone of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. And who knows, you may end up spotting a marsh crocodile or two, like we did. Tiger sighting is also very common around the Tadoba Lake. This is why Tadoba lake is one of the top places to see in Tadoba National Park.Tadoba lake is located very close to the Khutwanda gate from where we entered the core zone.

Climb atop a watchtower or Machan

I noticed a machan or watchtower at one of the shores of the enchanting Telia lake with crystal clear water near the Moharli Gate. There are many such machans where tourists can climb for a better view of the landscape or wildlife of Tadoba National Park. You must also check out the machans located in the area of Mohurli and Palasgaon ranges in the buffer zones. At Panchdhara , a small clearing, you can climb atop a rickety watchtower. Some people love to spend as much as 2-3 hours at watch towers anticipating good wildlife sightings. It is actually a greener alternative to engage with the wild , because no fuel is burnt when you spend 2-3 hours in a machan .

I had climbed atop machans in Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh and Manas National Park in Assam and it did reward me with great sightings from a safe distance. Thanks to the elevated height of the machan , spotting wildlife in the dense jungle becomes easier besides facilitating a greater visibility of the surroundings.

Nature Trail: Top Thing to do in Tadoba National Park

There are many exciting nature trails in and around Tadoba National Park. You can learn a lot about the local fauna, flora and the unseen micro-life. The miracles of the miniature world are best revealed by a trained naturalist such as those who work with Waghoba Eco Lodge. For example, I discovered amusing facts about easy-to-miss micro-life on one such nature trail led by Mr. Mandhar, who is an in-house naturalist besides looking after the kitchen garden of Waghoba Eco Lodge.

While we walked around the sprawling luxury property , secretly hoping to spot foxes and jackals , if not tigers , he asked me to look down. “There is a quick sand , right next to your feet”, said Mr. Mandhar. “What is a quick sand?”, I wondered. It looked like a small well in the ground, but it was more sinister than it looked. Also known as sinking sand , it is built by small insects to trap other insects and ants etc. Once another small insect falls in the well-like conical shaped quick sand, it is nearly impossible for them to climb up and escape. The way up is slippery, resulting in the insect becoming a quick meal of the lurking predator .

And we thought humans were the only intelligent creatures of God. There is so much going on in the micro world, easily missed by our eyes manipulated to obsess with spotting a tiger. This is why, hiring expert naturalists from Waghoba Eco Lodge, one of the best safari operators in India , makes all the difference. During this nature walk around Waghoba Eco Lodge, we also saw ground being dug up by wild boars, hoof marks of wild boars and even few wild Indian hares scurrying around in the bushes.

Appreciate plant life while you go on nature trails. 6-8 feet tall dense bamboo groves , tall teak trees and eerie white bark of the ghost tree dominate the landscape of Tadoba. The Tendu leaves are used for making beedis while mahua is used to making liquor and other things. And did you know that the Axlewood (Anogeissus latifolia is a fire-resistant species? You can learn more such interesting facts about Tadoba National Park and its flora fauna when you go on a nature trail here. Walking along the shores of Irai Lake is also pleasurable and safe. You can reach Irai during a buffer zone safari. It is located outside the core zone of the Tadoba Tiger Reserve.

Visit local Tribal Villages

Tadoba’s tribal hamlets merit immersive exploration. You must spend at least half a day if not full day interacting with the local tribes who live around in and around the vast Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. On a guided tour, you can learn about the lesser-known aspects of the local customs and traditions of the tribes who have residences near the buffer zones of Tadoba National Park. A mere village walk in the tribal settlements around Tadoba will acquaint you with their lifestyle. We came across various houses of Gond people while covering the short distance between Waghoba Eco Lodge and Tadoba National Park.

Some of the main tribes which call the Tadoba region home are

  • Kolam tribe
  • Korku tribe

Out of these, the tribal people of Gonds are the most dominant and familiar to the general public. The local tribal people are very friendly . With permission, I even explored their homes. I was amused to see some of them use both gas stove as well as the traditional chulha (mud stove) in their kitchens. Since the local tribal people are skilled craftsmen and artisans and are deft at making products out of bamboo, it is likely that you may catch them making baskets, swings, handicrafts, bamboo art, show pieces, furniture and even lamp shades and swings, right outside their homes. Exploring the tribal heartland is one of the top activities to do in Tadoba National Park. You may also want to consider visiting the beautiful Khosla Village in Chandrapur district.

Soul Window Facts

Did you know that Tadoba is christened after Taru or Tadoba, who happens to be the local god of the tribals ? As per the local folklore and legend, Taru was a brave village chieftain of the Gond tribe in the yesteryears. While combating a tiger, Taru was killed unfortunately, following which he was deified. You can also visit a temple devoted to Taru, under a huge tree on the banks of the pristine Tadoba Lake.

During the Hindu month of Pausha (December–January), the temple is inundated with visits of indigenous adivasis during an annual local fair . I noticed many such forest shrines during my visits. These are built by the adivasis who have co-existed with the wild and have called Tadoba their home since much before it became a protected national park .

Learn Warli Art

Traditionally, the tribal people of Maharashtra paint their homes with beautiful Warli paintings. There are some resorts and hotels in Tadoba who not only have their walls decorated with Warli paintings but can also help arrange a workshop on the same upon request. You can also talk to the local artist regarding the same.

This art form dates back to 10 th century C.E. The cultural intellectual property of Warli paintings preserved across generations is worth admiring for sure.

Discover Hidden Gems

There are many other hidden gems and offbeat places hiding in the corners of Tadoba National Park. I would suggest that you ask around and try to visit those places. The local guides and the folks at Waghoba Eco Lodge are the best people to tell you about the lesser-known places in and around the Tadoba National Park. Do let me know in the comment section and if I find it worthy, I will add it to this complete list of things to do in Tadoba National Park Maharashtra. I am sure, you had no idea that there are so many activities in Tadoba.

Boating in Irai Lake

Much like I boat ride I enjoyed in the visually stunning Satpura National Park of Madhya Pradesh, also in Central India , I was delighted to discover that boating on the backwaters of the Irai lake (pronounced Erai lake) is also made possible by the forest department . Spread across an area of 51 square kilometre, Irai lake is one of the best places to see in and around Tadoba National Park. The battery-operated boats with GPS trackers mostly operate in the buffer zone of the Tadoba Tiger Reserve.

 Boating in Irai Lake is one of the top things to do around Tadoba National Park and is a major tourist attraction popular with nature photographers and avifauna lovers. Boating here is also very popular with family and kids. What’s more? Various picturesque islands , inlets and bays within the jungle adds to the visual delight.

Needless to say, that apart from crocodiles, it is also possible to easily spot many birds such as Cotton Goose, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Grey Heron and Crested Pochard during the boat ride in Irai Lake. You can also spot many rare migratory birds during the boat ride in the winter months. This is why, do not forget to carry your telephoto lens during the boat ride. North Indian and Central Indian winter months are November, December, January and February

Boating in Irai Lake is not allowed during the rainy season because it is unsafe due to rising water levels. It is mandatory to wear the unsightly but life-saving life jackets during the boat-ride. Boating is accessible from near Moharli gate. The boating club is situated at Sitarampeth , which is located around 4 kilometres from the Mohurli Gate. Needless to say, this eco-tourist activity is very popular.

Timing of boating in Irai Lake is 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also see a stunning sunrise and sunset if you select your timings wisely. The orange glow of the sun, shimmering on the calm water can make even the dullest man a poet. Though the standard boat ride lasts only 30 minutes which I feel is way too less. I would recommend a 2-3 hours long boat ride in Irai Lake because that allows tourists to venture into the buffer area of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve for exciting wildlife sightings . Keep your eyes peeled for the aquatic plants , water birds and the wild animals that come to the riverside to sip water or cool themselves off in the summer months.

Visit the Irai dam

Apart from the boating in Irai lake, you may also want to visit Irai dam. Situated near Chandrapur and Tadoba Andhari Tiger Project, Irai Dam is a popular picnic spot for the locals and tourists alike. It was opened in the year 1983. Also, spelt as Erai dam, it is a must-visit place near Tadoba. People visit the gravity and earth filled Irai dam for fresh air, lack of pollution, wide open spaces, birdwatching opportunities, photography, greenery and cool breeze. In winters it is not very hot in afternoon, so you can use this time to visit Irai dam before the evening or night safari.

Enjoy glorious Sunrise and sunset

“This reminds me of the sunrise I saw in the Kidepo National Park of Uganda .”, I told Shaheen and Ami, my co-travellers, as we headed towards Khutwanda gate from Waghoba Eco Lodge for the morning safari. Indian Nightjars camouflaged on the tar roads flew one by one as we wheeled away, my neck still craned as my gaze transfixed on the ethereal sunrise. It was one of the most beautiful sunrises I had seen. The sunsets here were equally beautiful. Maybe we have similar sunrises and sunsets in the big bad cities too, but their beauty perhaps is clouded by pollution and skyscrapers.

While wheeling away for the night safari in Tadoba National Park , we also paused for a moment to appreciate the primal beauty of the ethereal sundown with a dramatic foreground of the backwaters of the Chargaon Dam , near Varora in the Chandrapur district.

Stargazing in Tadoba Andhari National Reserve

“Aren’t there more stars here than what we see in the cities? I asked my friend as I craned my neck to admire the night sky. Stargazing in such clean skies would be perfect especially on an amavasya or New Moon night. Do check with your property if they can arrange for a stargazing session for an extra fee. It is, after all not every day that we travel in such virgin places. Situated far away from the urban lights, this is the perfect place to do stargazing. Some hotels in Tadoba do have the facility of telescopes for stargazing. “On some nights, you can even see the milky way clearly here with naked eyes.” Shaheen told me as I admired the star-studded sky during the night safari.

Soak in the rains of Tadoba

Monsoon is the offseason in Tadoba, says who? I personally feel that the jungle looks even more beautiful after a few rains. Though I visited Tadoba in mid-June (which doesn’t receive much rains), it had rained a few days ago. And since luxury properties of Tadoba such as Waghoba Eco Lodge are open during the rainy season, you can still spot animals because jeep safari is allowed in the buffer zones of Tadoba even during monsoon. Having freshly fried pakoras and masala tea while admiring the green mountain and blue skies from the al fresco sit out area in the lounge of Waghoba Eco Lodge is a great idea too. Tadoba in monsoon is an experience for sure!

Pick Souvenirs: Things to buy in Tadoba National Park

What can I buy in Tadoba National Park? Do not forget to pack in a bottle of the locally made mahua liquor. It is easily available at shops of Moharli etc. The aftertaste of mohua liquormay not appeal to some though . It doesn’t cost much anyways, soit makes sense to buy some bottles for friends and family.

How to figure out if the quality of mahua drink is good? Here is a test to determine the quality of mahua drink. If the flame turns blue upon lighting a small piece of cotton cloth dipped in mahua liqueur, then it is said to be worthy of consuming.

Buy heeng or asafoetida from Hinganghat. You can also check out the souvenir shop of the luxurious Waghoba Eco Lodge by Pugdundee Safaris. They sell jungle themed T shirts, caps, magnets and even pillows etc. I particularly liked the small bird replicas they sold. It was great to see that they included local birds instead of any random birds. It is also a good idea to pick local oranges of Nagpur and local mangoes. The Nagpur airport itself sells a variety of orange flavoured sweets and other edible items.

Do Yoga in Waghoba Eco Lodge

I was delighted to see a rolled Yoga mat in my room of Waghoba Eco Lodge by Pugdundee Safaris. That was a first! The property management has thoughtfully placed Yoga mats in each room. The silence and peace that this place offers, it is apt for a yoga session.

Do meditation: Offbeat things to do in Tadoba National Park

The tranquillity of Waghoba Eco Lodge will inspire you to practise maun (silence) and meditate. On the mornings you are not going for a jeep safari in Tadoba, you may still want to wake up at 4 a.m. at the Brahma Muhurat and use the time to do some deep meditation. Located far away from the circus of the urban centres, visit to places like these are great opportunities to reconnect with yourself and the nature around you.  

Watch wildlife documentary

The Waghoba eco lodge plays interesting documentaries on Tadoba National Park and wildlife regularly. They documentaries are mostly played in the lounge area under the company of a highly trained in-house naturalist. The main documentaries shown here is about the local tigers, biodiversity and geography of Tadoba National Park. However, you can also select from the other wildlife films and documentaries they have on board.

Spend time in library

There are also many wildlife themed books in the library section of the lounge, for both adults and kids. Burying your nose in a book in the balcony of the lounge during good weather is a nice idea! And wait, there is even a bar counter at the lounge.

Observe the firelines during jeep safari in Tadoba

The tendu and mahua trees of Tadoba National Park are often the cause of forest fires. To avoid fire in the forest, the government employs the local villagers who make ‘firelines’ in the jungle. These open swathes of land help in combating the forest fires by discontinuing its spread. This helps contain the fire, if it erupts in a limited area. The fire lines also help in launching fire-fighting operations. I also observed trees marked in colourful rings. This is used for patrolling.

Read a good book on wildlife and local fauna and flora

Below are some excellent books on wildlife and plantlife by some renowned authors. These are suggested by the naturalists of Pugdundee Safaris.

  • Hidden life of trees by Peter Wollebhen
  • Trees of Delhi : A field guide by Pradip Krishan
  • Jungle Trees of central India by Pradip Krishan
  • The Secret network of nature by Peter Wollebhen
  • The secret life of Indian mammals by Vivek Menon
  • A Naturalist’s journal by M Yuvan Aves, a Chennai based writer.
  • Sacred plants of India by Nanditha Krishna and M. Amirthalingam.
  • Birds of the Indian Subcontinent by Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp and Tim Inskipp.
  • Snakes of India -The Field Guide by Romulus Whitaker and Ashok Captain is an encyclopedia on the Indian snake species.

Stop at the visitor’s center

There is also a visitor centre here where you may want to stop for someone. Watch out for the stuffed maneater here though it will not make up for the (unlikely) lack of sighting. You can request your jeep driver to stop at the visitor’s centre for few minutes, ideally during the safari or at the end of morning safari and beginning of evening safari.

Study the Map of Tadoba National Park

Despite the Google maps, I still find it exciting to study the paper map of places I visit. There is so much you can learn about the place by just studying its map. Thankfully, the huge map of Tadoba National Park at Waghoba Eco Lodge helped me understand how vast this place is. It also helped me figure out my location and how far are other destinations. I am attaching the map of Tadoba National Park here so that it may help you plan your travel better. The reception also has a large pictorial depiction of how the Waghoba Eco Lodge was constructed.

Stay in a log hut in Tadoba

If you fancy staying deep inside the jungle, then this adventurous activity is for you. You may even perhaps listen to the midnight calls of the wild , as you bury your nose in a book in your room. Built above the forest guard check posts in the buffer zone, the log hut accommodations are very popular with those who seek adventure and thrill of staying in a jungle.

While listening to the calls of nocturnal birds such as nightjars and various species of owls is pretty common, sometimes you may also listen to the night calls of deer and langurs if tiger or leopard movement is observed.

For your own safety you must carry torches as it gets very dark here in night. Also, do not expect luxury or even regular modern-day frills. The accommodation type is very basic and so is the service. It is more of an experience of staying deep inside a real jungle. You must also carry mosquito repellent, a good stock of water, finger foods and snacks before arriving here because there are no shops and fancy restaurants nearby. It also gets a bit colder inside a forest , so please dress accordingly. Pick and drop on authorized jeeps can be easily arranged for.

Visit Ramdegi Temple

Located in the Chimur Taluk of Chandrapur, Ramdegi is off the tourist trail. What makes Ramdegi such a pious place is the fact that Shri Ram Bhagwan spent some time here during his 14 years of exile with Maa Sita and Lakshman ji . Many pilgrims visit Ramdegi on a regular basis. Off late, tourists have also started to visit Ramdegi. A casual conversation with the local pujari who head the Ram Mandir near the Ramdegi forest can leave you with many interesting tales. Do not forget to offer some donations at the temple. A drive here during the rainy season is delightful .

If you enjoy visiting charming rural places with high spiritual significance , then you must include Ramdegi in your Tadoba itinerary. Do not miss the beautiful Buddha sculpture by a banyan tree at the nearby Buddha Vihar. The sleepy countryside and huge swathes of green fields make it a popular picnic spot for tourists. But what really adds to the fame of the temple are the stories told by local people about how tigers often pay a visit to the temple complex and even spend time here, mostly in night. Now, who wants a night safari here? By the way, a healthy population of sloth bears also call the Ramdegi region their home. This is why, Ramdegi makes for a great day drive from your hotel in Tadoba.

Soul Window Ruminations

Thanks to their antiquity, sheer grandeur , rich history , intricate carvings and awe-inspiring architecture , the ancient Hindu temples have always attracted me. No wonder, I have written so many detailed guides to Hindu temples such as Brihadeeswarar temple, Lepakshi temple, Baijnath temple, Shore temple, Anantswami temple, Shankaracharya Temple, Martand Temple, Maa Biraja Temple, Sri Ranganathaswami Temple, Baleshwar Mahadev Temple etc.Do read my detailed blogs on these amazing temples.

Ramtek Garh Temple

Ramtek Garh Temple is located roughly 4 hours and 194 kilometres from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve via NH44.

Ramtek Garh Temple is located only roughly 1 hour and 38.6 kilometres from Pench National Park via NH44.

Doctor APJ Abdul Kalam Garden

The charming little gardens and parks of Chandrapur are loved by the kids because of the play areas for children. Adults can chill on the stone benches, watching over the kids or striking a conversation with friends and family. There is also a view tower here which allows you to soak in the views of the surroundings. It is located in Babupeth area of Chandrapur. Timings to the park is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Long leisurely walks on the tiled pathways in a pollution free environment also appeal to many.

Also known as Doctor APJ Abdul Kalam Nisarg Udyan, it also has some unusual sculptures dotted along the park such as 2 tigers killing a blackbuck , farmers with bullock cat and army-men. Even the gate of this park is embellished with life-size images of astronauts, missiles, farmers, ox and a globe. It is one of the lesser-known places near Tadoba National Park.

Suresh Chopane Rock Museum

Some of the most underrated archaeological discoveries of India can be seen at the personal educational Museum set up by Shri Suresh Chopane. The museumdisplays ancient fossils , a variety of rocks and stone age tools for general public.

Worth a dekko is the microfossils from the Chandrapur area, known as Cyanobacteria . These date back to a whooping 150 crores years. Ancient rocks from 8000 B.C.E. and Colmnar Basalt , a rare finding in Yavatmal District is also worth observing.  If you love going off the touristy trail, you will enjoy spending quality time at the unexplored Suresh Chopane Rock Museum.

Who would have thought that Chandrapur , which is located at the confluence of the Zarpat river and the Irai river in the Vidarbha region hides so many secrets? I have always found it rewarding to go offbeat on my travels. Not many people are aware of the ancient stone age sites in Chandrapur District. This is why, make time for this unusual place to see near Tadoba National Park.

Visit Hirapur Dolmen

Another lesser-known place to see near Tadoba National Park and Suresh Chopane Rock Museum is the mysterious Hirapur Dolmen. I am sure you didn’t know about this place. As per the study of the archaeologists, the structures here are as old as 3rd and the 2nd century B.C.E. Though some dispute that this historical site can even be older.

The height of dolmens’ stones roughly 10 feet and the weight is estimated to be around 100 tons. Copper coins and mysterious antiques have been unearthed from around the dolmen burials. The 4 dolmens found here are ancient burials .

What makes it special is the fact that it is the first ever dolmen in the world where evidences of iron and iron smelting is observed. What’s more? It is the only dolmen discovered so far in this region which was used for both burial as well as worship. The other dolmens served solely as burials. This mysteries site is still a matter of study and new discoveries and conclusions are still being made. Do not miss this unusual place to see near Tadoba National Park.

Apart from the Hirapur dolmens, other significant megalithic sites of Vidarbha region include Mahurjhari Stone Circles with 200 megalithic stone circles, Takalghat Khapa, stone circles of Junapani sepulchral megaliths and Naikund (evidence of iron smelting found). Most of these immensely important ancient archaeological sites are located near Nagpur. The region in and around Chandrapur is overflowing with such ancient objects. It’s a pity that most tourists are not aware of such hidden gems.

Even today the local tribal community worships the double-chambered megaliths discovered here. Hirapur Dolmen is one of its kind of a place. Hirapur Dolmen is situated in the obscure Hirapur village on NH-930 in the Chimur tehsil of Chandrapur district. Does it remind you of the better marketed Stonehenge in England?

Visit Hinganghat

Hinganghat, known for producing good quality heeng or asafoetida is located near the gates of Tadoba Tiger Reserve. Hinganghat is also known for its cotton industries. Nestles in the fertile lands of Wardha, Hinganghat is a must-visit place near Tadoba National Park. Surrounded by the pristine Vana River , some of the top major attraction in Hinganghat are Shahlangdi Hanuman Temple , Shri Gajanan Maharaj Samadhi Temple and Amba temple . Located approximately 88 kilometres away from Tadoba National Park, Hinganghat can easily be covered in a few hours as a day trip.

You can reach Hinganghat, a 1500 years old city in the Wardha district by bus or car. You can also go on long nature walks here. Do not miss the 52 feet (16 metres) tall statue of Lord Pandurang . It is the world’s largest statue of him. The Jain temple constructed in 1955 is worth visiting for its decorations done in glass. Did you know that the world-famous Baba Amte , an activist and a renowned social worker, who devoted his life helping leprosy patients, was born in Hinganghat on 24 December 1914?

Go on long drives around Tadoba

There are several quaint little towns and cities around Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. These merit a visit as they are easily accessible by a road trip. The long drives after a few rains are even more exciting as you will likely pass through lush green open fields and overflowing water bodies. The good part is that the road conditions in this region is excellent which makes it pleasurable to drive on these roads. There are many exciting excursions from Tadoba which you must visit if time and budget is not a constraint.

Visit Sevagram Gandhi Ashram

Not many know that from the year 1938, to 1948, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi spent quality time at the Sevagram Gandhi Ashram which was set up by himself. Located on the outskirts of the village, it presently houses a museum where you can see objects related to Gandhi and the Indian freedom movement . It reminds me of my visit to the spartan Sabarmati Ashram of Ahmedabad in Gujarat .

How to reach Sevegram Gandhi Ashram? You can make a day trip here from your resort in Tadoba National Park. But I suggest that you can plan to visit Sevagram while you drive to or from Nagpur. A small detour from the highway can get you here. This way you can save time and fuel.

Sevagram Gandhi Ashram is located merely 8 kilometres away from Wardha and roughly 3 hours and 117.5 kilometres away from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra via NH 347A. The distance and time taken may vary depending upon where in Tadoba you start from.         

Explore Nagpur

You can also visit the major attractions of Nagpur such as Shri Ganesh Temple Tekdi, Zero Mile Stone, Sitabardi Fort, Deekshabhoomi, Telangkhedi Hanuman Mandir, Futala Lake, Narrow Gauge Rail Museum, Ambazari Lake, Dragon Palace Temple, Shukrawari Lake and Khindsi Lake etc.    If not all, then you can surely visit some of these tourist attractions. It is wise to plan this sightseeing tour either when you arrive or depart. Exploring Nagpur sure is one of the top things to do near the Tadoba National Park.

Where is Tadoba National Park located?

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve or Tadoba National Park is located in Maharashtra in Central India. The Karmajhiri gate and Waghoba Eco Lodge by Pugdundee Safari is located only 2.5 hours away from Sonegaon airport Nagpur also known as Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport.

Tadoba National Park is also merely 5 hours of cab ride away from the Turia gate, Khutwanda gate and the amazing Pench Tree Lodge, also by Pugdundee Safaris.

What is the cost of jeep safari and camera fee in Tadoba National Park

Please see the attached picture of the signboard of the Tadoba National Park. It clearly mentions entry fee, safari cost and camera fee etc.

How many days are sufficient in Tadoba?

I spent 2 nights and 2 days in Tadoba. After driving for 2.5 hours from the Nagpur airport, I reached the Waghoba Eco Lodge after dark. The next day I did morning safari in core and evening night safari. On the 3 rd day, I went for a nature walk and birdwatching session around the property and at around 10 a.m., I left for Pench Tree Lodge, which is located just 5 hours of drive away.

You may want to spend more time here if you want to do more safaris or dig deeper into the local flora and fauna. You will also need more days if you want to visit the nearby attractions (which I highly recommend) such as Ramdegi, Ramtek, Suresh Chopane Rock Museum, Hirapur Dolmen, butterfly world, Hinganghat and Irai Lake etc.

What are the safari timings in Tadoba National Park? 

Jeep safari timings in Tadoba National Park are as below

Summer timings

5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Winter timings

6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 3.30 p.m.

Timing for Night Safari in buffer zone

7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Why phones are not allowed in Tadoba?

It is strictly prohibited to use mobile phones inside Tadoba National Park for the peace of the wild animals and birds and to maintain the decorum and sanctity inside the jungle. Do not try to sneak in a phone and use it. If a jeep driver or guide on the other jeep see you with a phone, they may complain about you and it will lead to unnecessary hassles and fines.

How to reach Tadoba National Park

It was a pleasure to be driven on the 8-lane Nagpur – Hyderabad Highway. I am impressed with the massive infrastructural changes seen with respect to good quality road network in India. Not only will this improve trade but will also boost tourism in the area surrounding Nagpur and Pench National Park. It took us around 2.5 hours to reach Waghoba Eco Lodge from Nagpur airport aka Sonegaon airport or Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport.

Buses are also available from Nagpur or Chandrapur to the nearest bus station which is situated at Bhadravathi . Distance between Nagpur and Waghoba Eco Lodge is 140 kilometres.

Stop at Jamb food court

While arriving from the Nagpur airport, we also made a pit stop at Jamb , the local food court. Since I love Maharashtrian food , I was delighted to see Misal Pao, Sabudana Vada, Sabudana Khichdi, Vadapao, Kanda Poha, Dabeli etc. While I loved the Sabudana Vada and the spicy Misal Pao here, the Vada Pao was lacklustre and not authentic ( get your paos done right , people! It is not Portuguese enough!). There is also a shop in Jamb from where you can buy local food such as kokum , aam papad , assorted Maharashtrian style chutneys etc. You can also buy various varieties of local mango at food stalls here during summer months. Clean toilets are also available. I also saw a Mumbai style restaurant across the road nearby but we were already full by then.

Best Time to visit Tadoba National Park

October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May and June are the best months to visit Tadoba National Park. Many regulars vouch for the months of March, April, May and June for better prospects of Tiger sightings. I visited on 10 th June and was rewarded with a successful tiger sighting. I was surprised to know that jeep safari is also allowed in the rainy season in the buffer zone of Tadoba national park. You can also plan a visit to Tadoba in the low season of July, August and September to appreciate the green landscape. You can also spot animals in monsoon. Rainy season is also a good time to take great macro shorts of insects, small amphibians, butterflies etc.

Which month is best for Tadoba?

What is the best time to visit Tadoba National Park? I visited Tadoba National Park in mid-June because there are higher chances of spotting a tiger at the peak of summer. Below is a complete guide on the best time to visit Tadoba National Park, based on my personal experience:

I visited Tadoba National Park in mid-June, the peak of summer in the Central India . Perhaps that is also why I had great sightings of not only tigers but also other wild animals such as my first jungle cats and civet cats. March, April, May and June are considered summer months in Tadoba.

Having said that, the winters months are equally good for sightings in Tadoba. Many of my friends have had amazing sightings of tigers and other animals and birds in the month of January etc. Winter months in Tadoba National Park are November, December, January and February. 

Until I visited, I had no idea that the jeep safari is allowed in the buffer zone of Tadoba in the rainy season. The core zone remains closed in the months of July, August and September. The park reopens in October. However, you can still do safaris and spot animals in monsoons.

What not to do in jungle of Tadoba National Park?

  • It is strictly prohibited by the forest department to harvest any flora and fauna of Tadoba National Park. Neither, it is allowed to step out of the jeep during the entire tiger safari for the safety of humans and the wild animals .
  • Do not take back any plant or animal body parts such as peacock feathers, deer antlers, timber, leaves, twigs or even honey.
  • I was immediately asked by my driver to keep my legs inside the jeep, when I tried to stretch and rest it outside the jeep. I readily obeyed. You can alight at the designated viewpoints if your guide and driver allow such as cafeteria, forest rest houses and machan etc.
  • Do not leave behind your waste. The Pugdundee Safari team responsibly collected all the trash after we had the breakfast in the jeep and disposed it off sensibly after we left the jungle.
  • Use of Mobile Phone is strictly prohibited in Tadoba National Park.

My experience of Tadoba National Park

First things first, it was the first time I ever saw a male Indian peacock dance from such a close distance. I had always waited for that moment and it finally arrived. The best part is that we saw similar scenes the next day during the morning safari in Pench National Park. In both instances, the peacock wasn’t affected by our presence despite us being so close to him. Also, the peacock didn’t hurry up his act and allowed us to watch (and click) to our heart’s content. As they say, the more time you spend in a jungle, the luckier you get!

I also got amazing sightings of the tigress Bijli and her cubs. I hardly ever get unlucky in a forest. Most of my safaris have been successful with sightings of tigers and other animals. I also saw my first jungle cat and civet cat in the night safari on the same day. I couldn’t have asked for more! I saw most of the major mammals over 2 jeep safaris on a single day.

Which gate is best for Tiger safari in Tadoba National Park?

We entered the Tadoba National Park from the Khutwanda Gate , which is merely 8 kilometres and 20-30 minutes of jeep ride away from Waghoba Eco Lodge. Moharli zone gate is located around 45 minutes ride away from Waghoba Eco Lodge. In fact, we entered through the Khutwanda gate and also visited area near the popular Moharli gate. We even passed through the Kolara zone gate of Tadoba National Park.

The three separate forest ranges of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve are Tadoba north range, Kolsa south range, and Moharli range. When we drove towards Moharli range from Jamni lake, Kolsa range did fall on our route.

There are six gates with entry to the buffer zone and 12 gates for the core area. Some of the gates of Tadoba National Park are Moharli gate, Kolara gate, Navegaon, Pangdi, Zari and Khutwanda gate. The jeep safaris may drive you on Navegaon Road, Waghai Road, Kollaradhari Road or Satyanau Point etc.

Conclusion: Is it worth going to Tadoba National Park?

Yes, Tadoba National Park is already very popular with wildlife enthusiasts such as me for tiger safari . Jeep Safari for Tiger and wildlife sighting in Tadoba is highly rewarding. Not only did I see the tigers on the jeep safari in Tadoba but I also see many other animals such as wild boars, gaurs, sambar, crocodile, darter, dancing peacocks, Indian hare and my first civet cat and jungle cat.

Being one of the most popular tiger destinations in India, Tadoba National Park attracts travellers from not only different parts of India but also from other nations such as Unites States of America, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, France, Italy etc. Being one of India’s few project tiger reserves, Tadoba National Park is also very important for the protection and conservation of the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers in the wild. This is the biggest guide to top things to do in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Do share it with your friends and family and inspire them to embark upon an adventurous wildlife holiday .

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TADOBA NATIONAL PARK | WILDLIFE SAFARI & TRAVEL GUIDE TO TADOBA

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  • Tadoba National Park Overview
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About Tadoba National Park

Country: india | state: maharashtra, #15 of 24 places to visit in maharashtra | #78 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: full day, base station: chandrapur (29 kms), nearest city to tadoba national park: nagpur (145 kms), best time to visit tadoba national park: november to may, peak season: april to june, tadoba national park weather: summer: maximum - 47°c and minimum - 24°c winter: maximum - 30°c and minimum - 10°c.

At a distance of 29 km from Chandrapur, 145 km from Nagpur, 412 km from Hyderabad, 518 km from Aurangabad, 747 km from Pune, and 863 km from Mumbai, Tadoba is a popular tiger reserve in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra in India. Renowned as Maharashtra's oldest and largest national park, it is one of the best places of wildlife in India , and among the top places to visit in Maharashtra . Also known as Tadoba - Andhari Tiger Reserve, the park is one of the 47 project tiger reserves in India and among the must-visit places in Maharashtra as part of your Wildlife tour packages . The Tadoba National Park was created in the year 1955. The Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was formed in the year 1986 and was amalgamated with the park in 1995 to establish the present Tadoba - Andhari Tiger Reserve. The name Tadoba is derived from the God 'Tadoba' or 'Taru', praised by the tribal people who live in the dense forests of the Tadoba and Andhari region, while the Andhari River that meanders through the forest gives the name 'Andhari'. The total area of the tiger reserve is 1,727 Sq. km and the core area of the tiger reserve is 625.40 Sq. km. The reserve also includes 32.51 Sq.km of protected forest and 14.93 Sq. km of other areas. Densely forested hills form the northern and western boundaries of the tiger reserve. Tadoba Lake acts as a buffer between the park's forest and the extensive farmland which extends up to the Irai water reservoir. This lake is a perennial water source that offers good habitat for Mugger crocodiles to thrive. Tadoba National Park is divided into three separate forest ranges, i.e. Tadoba north range, Kolsa south range, and Mohurli range. There are 6 entry points for this park which are Mohurli gate, Kolara gate, Kuswanda gate, Navegaon gate, Pangdi gate, and Zari gate. There are 88 tigers, as of August 2016 in the reserve, and 58 in the forests immediately outside the reserve. The park also houses Bengal Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, nilgai, dhole, striped hyena, small Indian civet, jungle cats, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, chital, and chausingha. One can find many more varied species of animals and birds here. The reserve also has teak, bamboo, arjun, salai, haldu, bija, tendu, jamun, mahua, ain, and other trees. Jeep safari is one of the most popular activities that can be experienced as part of Tadoba packages . Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur is the nearest airport, which is about 137 km from Tadoba National Park. Regular flights fly from Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, and Kolkata to Nagpur. Chandrapur Railway Station is the nearest railhead from the National Park as it is at a distance of 29 km. Chandrapur is well connected by train with major cities like Delhi, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Gorakhpur, Bikaner, Mysore, Trivandrum, Jaipur, Coimbatore, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Vizag, Pune, Mumbai, Kochi, Patna, Rourkela, Rameshwaram, Puri, Okha, Lucknow and Mangalore. Chandrapur is the major bus station which is about 29 km from the Park and is well connected by road with all major cities like Nagpur, Pune, and Aurangabad. Accommodation facilities are available and are mainly concentrated among two of its popular entrance gates Mohurli Gate and Kolara Gate. Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation hotel (Mohurli) and the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra guesthouse and dormitory room are also perfect for comfy accommodation. Apart from this, Eco huts provided by the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra are also good for those who are looking for budget lodging in Tadoba National Park. Other private hotels and restaurants are also available near the park. The best time to visit the Tadoba -Andhari National Park is between the months of November to May while the peak season is from March to May. Summer is the ideal time to sight mammals near water holes. The park is open for visitors from 15th October to 30th June every year and remains full-day closed on every Tuesday. Park Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM on all days except on Tuesdays Park Entry Fee: Week Days: Rs. 20 for Person, Rs. 750 for Jeep, Rs. 1500 for Mini Bus, Rs. 2 for Still Camera, Rs. 200 for Camera with 250 mm lenses, and Rs. 300 for Guide Weekends: Rs. 20 for Person, Rs. 1000 for Jeep, Rs. 2000 for Mini Bus and Rs. 300 for Guide

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Nearest Airport: Nagpur - Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (137 Kms)

Direct flights to nagpur, nearest train station: chandrapur (29 kms), direct trains to chandrapur, nearest bus station: chandrapur (29 kms), direct buses to chandrapur, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to tadoba national park, top 10 places to visit in tadoba national park, tadoba jeep safari.

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

#1 of 3 Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park

At a distance of 104 km from Nagpur and 112 km from Chandrapur, Tadoba Zone in Tadoba National Park is the most demanded by tourists. This zone has 3 gates Kolara, Khutwanda, and Navegaon. Tadoba Zone has diverse habitat and very beautiful landscape. Jeep Safari is the best thing that one can experience in Tadoba National Park. The open Jeep ride, also known as tiger safari is usually of few hours in the dense reserve, where the chances of spotting a tiger and other wild animals are relatively high. The park authority has restricted the total number of jeeps to 112 for the morning and evening drives into the Park. Maximum 23 vehicles are allowed to travel into Tadoba Zone during morning and same number in the evening. Of these, 4 vehicles from Khutwanda, 13 vehicles from Kolara and 6 vehicles from Navegaon are allowed into the park for safari during morning and same number in the evening. But proper accommodation, gypsies and guides are available at Mohurli gate only. For .....

Moharli Jeep Safari

Moharli Jeep Safari

#2 of 3 Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park

At a distance of 29 km from Chandrapur and 145 km from Nagpur, Moharli or Mohurli Zone in Tadoba National Park is the most famous among day tourists. This is the oldest entrance to the park. The Jeep Safari is the best thing that one can experience in Tadoba National Park. Moharli Zone is known for the best tiger spotting and is also popular for offering good accommodation facilities to the tourists. The open Jeep ride, also known as tiger safari is usually of few hours in the dense reserve, where the chances of spotting a tiger and other wild animals are relatively high. The Moharli Gate is easily accessible from other two zone of Tadoba namely Tadoba Zone and Kolsa Zone. At the entry gate of the Moharli Zone, private gypsies are available for Jungle Safari. The park authority has restricted the total number of jeeps to 112 for the morning and evening drives into the Park. Maximum 27 vehicles are allowed to travel into Mohurli Zone during morning and same number in the evening. .....

Kolsa Jeep Safari

tadoba national park nearest tourist places

#3 of 3 Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park

At a distance of 44 km from Chandrapur and 165 km from Nagpur, Kolsa Zone is the most beautiful Zone in Tadoba National Park as for jungle quality matters. This zone has 3 entry gates Zari or Kolsa, Pangdi, and Mahurli. The wildlife sighting possibilities are relatively lower and is the least demanded zone by tourists. Jeep Safari is the best thing that one can experience in Tadoba National Park. The open Jeep ride, also known as tiger safari is usually of few hours in the dense reserve, where the chances of spotting a tiger and other wild animals are relatively high. The park authority has restricted the total number of jeeps to 112 for the morning and evening drives into the Park. Maximum 23 vehicles are allowed to travel into Tadoba Zone during morning and same number in the evening. Of these, 7 vehicles from Mahurli, 3 vehicles from Zari and 3 vehicles from Pangdi are allowed into the park for safari during morning and same number in the evening. There is also a forest .....

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Tadoba National Park

🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to June

⏰ Open Hours: Morning: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Evening: 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM

🏞 Things To Do: Wildlife Safari, Bird Watching, Photography

💰 Entry Fees: INR 2000 per person for Indians, INR 4000 per person for Foreigners

🧳 Traveller Types: Wildlife Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Photographers

🔖 Known For: Dense Bamboo Forests, Home to the Royal Bengal Tigers, Largest National Park in Maharashtra

📍 Distances: From Chandrapur Railway Station: 45 km, From Nagpur Airport: 140 km, From Nagpur City: 130 km

🐾 Wildlife: Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Gaur, Nilgai, Wild Dogs

🏞 Area: 1727 sq. km

🔥 Rules: No Flash or Sound Photography, Follow the Guide's Instructions

🏕 Accommodation: Various Resorts and Lodges Available Near the Park

Are you looking for a thrilling and unforgettable wildlife adventure in India? Do you want to witness the majestic tigers and other exotic animals in their natural habitat? If yes, then you should definitely visit Tadoba National Park, the oldest and largest tiger reserve in the country.

Photo of Tadoba National Park 1/3 by

Tadoba National Park, also known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra , the park covers an area of 625 sq km and is home to more than 80 tigers, along with leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaur, and many other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

The park offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors, such as safari, birdwatching, photography, boating, and temple visit. You can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the park’s lakes, forests, hills, and meadows. The park has six safari zones, each with its own entry gate, route, and wildlife sightings. You can book your safari permits and tour packages online or offline through various websites and agencies.

How to Reach Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park is well-connected by air, rail, and road from different cities and airports in India. Here are some of the ways you can reach the park:

By Air: The nearest airport to Tadoba National Park is Nagpur Airport , which is about 140 km away from the park. You can take a flight from any major city in India to Nagpur Airport and then hire a taxi or a bus to reach the park. The travel time by road from Nagpur Airport to Tadoba National Park is about 3 hours.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Tadoba National Park is Chandrapur Railway Station , which is about 45 km away from the park. You can take a train from any major city in India to Chandrapur Railway Station and then hire a taxi or a bus to reach the park. The travel time by road from Chandrapur Railway Station to Tadoba National Park is about 1 hour.

By Road: You can also drive your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Tadoba National Park by road. The park is well-connected by national and state highways from various cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states. Some of the major cities that are close to the park are Nagpur (140 km), Pune (770 km), Mumbai (950 km), Hyderabad (450 km), etc.

Also Read: A Complete 4 days Itinerary to Tadoba, Maharashtra

Best Time to Visit Tadoba National Park

The best time to visit Tadoba National Park depends on your preference and purpose of visit. The park has three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Each season has its own advantages and disadvantages for visitors. Here are some of the factors you should consider before choosing the best time to visit the park:

Weather: The weather of Tadoba National Park varies from hot and dry in summer to wet and humid in monsoon to cool and pleasant in winter. The average temperature of the park ranges from 25°C to 45°C in summer, 20°C to 35°C in monsoon, and 10°C to 30°C in winter. The rainfall of the park is about 1200 mm per year, mostly during the monsoon season from June to September.

Wildlife: The wildlife of Tadoba National Park is more active and visible in summer and winter than in monsoon. The summer season is the best time to spot tigers and other predators, as they come out of their hiding places to drink water from the lakes and ponds. The winter season is the best time to spot birds and other herbivores, as they migrate or breed in the park. The monsoon season is the least favourable time to spot wildlife, as they retreat to the dense forests and avoid the wetlands.

Safari: The safari of Tadoba National Park is available throughout the year, except on Tuesdays and some festival days. The safari timings vary according to the seasons and zones. The summer season has longer safari hours than the winter season, as the sunrise and sunset are earlier and later respectively. The monsoon season has shorter safari hours than the other seasons, as some zones are closed due to heavy rainfall and flooding. The safari charges also vary according to the seasons and zones. The summer season has higher safari charges than the winter season, as the demand and supply are higher and lower respectively. The monsoon season has lower safari charges than the other seasons, as the demand and supply are lower and higher respectively.

Based on these factors, you can choose the best time to visit Tadoba National Park according to your preference and purpose. However, we recommend you to visit the park in either summer or winter, as these are the best seasons to enjoy the wildlife and safari experience of the park.

Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park has a lot of places to visit for visitors who want to explore its natural and cultural diversity. Here are some of the places you should not miss when you visit the park:

Wildlife Attractions

The main attraction of Tadoba National Park is its wildlife, especially its tigers. The park has more than 80 tigers , making it one of the largest tiger reserves in India. You can spot these magnificent beasts in their natural habitat during your safari in any of the six zones of the park. Each zone has its own entry gate, route, and wildlife sightings. Here are some of the zones you can choose from:

Moharli Zone: This is one of the most popular and oldest zones of the park. It has a high density of tigers and other predators, such as leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, etc. It also has a variety of herbivores, such as gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, etc. It has three entry gates: Moharli Gate, Khutwanda Gate, and Kolara Gate.

Tadoba Zone: This is another popular and oldest zone of the park. It has a high density of tigers and other predators, Tadoba Zone: This is another popular and oldest zone of the park. It has a high density of tigers and other predators, such as leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, etc. It also has a variety of herbivores, such as gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, etc. It has two entry gates: Tadoba Gate and Navegaon Gate.

Kolsa Zone: This is one of the most scenic and remote zones of the park. It has a low density of tigers and other predators, but a high diversity of birds and other animals, such as barking deer, four-horned antelope, jungle cat, etc. It has two entry gates: Kolsa Gate and Zari Gate.

Kolara Zone: This is one of the newest and most accessible zones of the park. It has a moderate density of tigers and other predators, such as leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, etc. It also has a good population of herbivores, such as gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, etc. It has one entry gate: Kolara Gate.

Navegaon Zone: This is another new and accessible zone of the park. It has a moderate density of tigers and other predators, such as leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, etc. It also has a good population of herbivores, such as gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, etc. It has one entry gate: Navegaon Gate.

Pangdi Zone: This is the newest and least explored zone of the park. It has a low density of tigers and other predators, but a high diversity of birds and other animals, such as barking deer, four-horned antelope, jungle cat, etc. It has one entry gate: Pangdi Gate.

You can choose any of these zones for your safari in Tadoba National Park (2023), depending on your preference and availability. You can also book your safari permits and tour packages online or offline through various websites and agencies.

You May Like to Read about Aakansha's Wildlife Chase Across The Country

Natural Attractions

Apart from its wildlife, Tadoba National Park also has some natural attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of them:

Tadoba Lake: This is one of the most beautiful and serene lakes in the park. It is located in the Tadoba Zone and covers an area of 12 sq km. It is a natural lake that was formed by the damming of the Tadoba River. It is a source of water for the wildlife and a habitat for many aquatic animals and birds. You can enjoy boating and fishing in the lake or watch the sunset from its banks.

Andhari River: This is one of the most important and lifeline rivers in the park. It flows through the park from north to south and joins the Wainganga River outside the park. It is a perennial river that provides water for the wildlife and irrigation for the nearby villages. It also creates some scenic spots in the park, such as waterfalls, rapids, pools, etc.

Erai Dam: This is one of the largest and oldest dams in Maharashtra. It is located outside the park near Chandrapur city. It was built in 1986 on the Erai River to provide water for irrigation and power generation. It also creates a large reservoir that attracts many migratory birds and aquatic animals. You can visit the dam to see its engineering marvel or enjoy birdwatching and boating in the reservoir.

Chimur Hills: These are some of the highest and oldest hills in the park. They are located in the Kolsa Zone and rise up to 675 meters above sea level. They are made up of basalt rocks that are more than 65 million years old. They offer a panoramic view of the park and its surroundings. You can trek or camp on these hills or enjoy photography and stargazing.

Cultural Attractions

Besides its natural attractions, Tadoba National Park also has some cultural attractions that reflect its history and heritage. Here are some of them:

Tadoba Temple: This is one of the most sacred and ancient temples in the park. It is located near Tadoba Lake in the Tadoba Zone. It is dedicated to Lord Tadoba or Taru, who was a local tribal chief who was killed by a tiger. He was worshipped as a deity by his followers and later by other tribes and villagers. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year who seek blessings from Lord Tadoba.

Shiv Temple: This is another old and revered temple in the park. It is located near Kolsa Lake in the Kolsa Zone. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shiv Temple: This is another old and revered temple in the park. It is located near Kolsa Lake in the Kolsa Zone. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil and the patron of animals. The temple is built on a rock and has a shivalinga and a nandi bull statue. The temple is visited by many devotees and tourists who seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

Mahakali Temple: This is one of the most famous and ancient temples in the Chandrapur district. It is located outside the park near Ballarpur city. It is dedicated to Goddess Mahakali, the fierce form of Goddess Parvati. The temple is known for its unique architecture and its nine-day festival called Navratri. The temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists who worship Goddess Mahakali.

Photo of Tadoba National Park 2/3 by

Besides its cultural attractions, Tadoba National Park also has some historical attractions that reflect its past and present. Here are some of them:

Chimur Fort: This is one of the oldest and largest forts in Maharashtra. It is located outside the park near Chimur town. It was built by the Gond kings in the 16th century to defend their territory from the Mughals and the British. The fort has a massive wall, a moat, a palace, a mosque, a temple, and a museum. The fort is a heritage site and a tourist attraction that showcases the history and culture of the Gond dynasty.

Chandrapur Museum: This is one of the most informative and interesting museums in Maharashtra. It is located outside the park near Chandrapur city. It was established in 1975 to preserve and display the archaeological, historical, cultural, and natural artifacts of the Chandrapur district. The museum has various sections, such as prehistory, history, art, culture, wildlife, geology, etc. The museum is a learning centre and a tourist attraction that educates and entertains visitors.

Urjanagar Lake: This is one of the most beautiful and serene lakes in Maharashtra. It is located outside the park near Urjanagar village. It was created by the construction of a dam on the Erai River in 1986 to provide water for irrigation and power generation. The lake covers an area of 15 sq km and has a depth of 40 meters. The lake attracts many migratory birds and aquatic animals. You can visit the lake to enjoy boating and fishing or watch the sunrise or sunset from its banks.

Things to Do in Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park has a lot of things to do for visitors who want to experience its thrill and fun. Here are some of them:

Wildlife Activities

The main activity of Tadoba National Park is its wildlife safari, which allows you to explore its rich and diverse flora and fauna. You can choose from different modes of safari, such as jeep safari, bus safari, or elephant safari. You can also choose from different timings of safari, such as morning safari or evening safari. You can book your safari permits and tour packages online or offline through various websites and agencies.

- The jeep safari is the most popular and preferred mode of safari in Tadoba National Park. It gives you the flexibility and freedom to choose your own route, vehicle, driver, guide, and time for the safari. You can also enjoy the thrill and adventure of driving through the rough terrains and dense forests of the park. The jeep safari can accommodate up to six people per vehicle.

- The bus safari is another mode of safari in Tadoba National Park. It gives you the comfort and safety of travelling in a large group with an experienced driver and guide. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the park from the windows or roof of the bus. The bus safari can accommodate up to 25 people per vehicle.

The elephant safari is another mode of safari in Tadoba National Park (2023). It gives you the opportunity to ride on an elephant’s back and get closer to the wildlife without disturbing them. You can also enjoy the charm and grace of these gentle giants as they walk through the park. The elephant safari can accommodate up to four people per elephant.

The wildlife safari in Tadoba National Park is not only about spotting tigers and other animals, but also about observing their behaviour, habits, habitats, etc. You can also learn about their conservation status, threats, challenges, etc. from your guide or driver. You can also take photographs or videos of your wildlife sightings as souvenirs or memories.

Adventure Activities

If you are looking for some more adventure activities in Tadoba National Park, you can try some of these:

Birdwatching: Tadoba National Park is a paradise for bird lovers, as it has more than 195 species of birds, including three endangered species. You can spot some of the rare and exotic birds, such as the grey-headed fish eagle, the crested serpent eagle, the changeable hawk-eagle, etc. You can also hear their melodious and varied calls and songs. You can use binoculars or cameras to observe or capture their beauty and diversity.

Photography: Tadoba National Park is a paradise for photographers, as it has a stunning and scenic landscape, a rich and diverse wildlife, and a vibrant and colourful culture. You can capture some of the breathtaking and memorable moments of your visit to the park, such as the sunrise or sunset over the lake, the tiger or leopard in action, the bird or butterfly in flight, the temple or fort in glory, etc. You can also use different techniques or filters to enhance your photography skills and creativity.

Boating: Tadoba National Park has some of the most beautiful and serene lakes in Maharashtra, such as Tadoba Lake, Kolsa Lake, and Urjanagar Lake. You can enjoy boating in these lakes and experience their calmness and tranquility. You can also watch the wildlife that depends on these lakes for their survival, such as crocodiles, turtles, fish, etc. You can also enjoy fishing in these lakes and catch some of the local delicacies, such as rohu, catla, mrigal, etc.

Trekking: Tadoba National Park has some of the highest and oldest hills in Maharashtra, such as Chimur Hills. You can trek on these hills and enjoy their panoramic view of the park and its surroundings. You can also explore their flora and fauna, such as basalt rocks, bamboo thickets, velvet beans, bheria leaves, etc. You can also camp on these hills and enjoy stargazing or bonfire at night.

Leisure Activities

If you are looking for some leisure activities in Tadoba National Park, you can try some of these:

Temple Visit: Tadoba National Park has some of the most sacred and ancient temples in Maharashtra, such as Tadoba Temple, Shiv Temple, and Mahakali Temple. You can visit these temples and seek blessings from their deities. You can also learn about their history and legends from the priests or locals. You can also participate in their festivals or rituals, such as Navratri or Pausha fair.

Museum Visit: Tadoba National Park has some of the most informative and interesting museums in Maharashtra, such as Chandrapur Museum. You can visit this museum and learn about the archaeological, historical, cultural, and natural artifacts of the Chandrapur district. You can also see some of the rare and unique collections, such as prehistoric tools, coins, sculptures, paintings, fossils, etc.

Shopping: Tadoba National Park has some of the best shopping options in Maharashtra, where you can buy some souvenirs and handicrafts made by the local tribes and villagers. You can find some interesting items, such as bamboo baskets, velvet beans, bheria leaves, honey, etc. You can also buy some books, magazines, posters, etc. related to the park and its wildlife.

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Tips for Travellers Visiting Tadoba National Park

Before you visit Tadoba National Park, you should keep in mind some tips and suggestions that will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some of them:

- Do your research and planning well in advance. Book your safari permits and tour packages online or offline through various websites and agencies. Check the availability and prices of the safari zones, vehicles, drivers, guides, etc. Choose the best option according to your preference and budget.

- Pack your essentials and accessories carefully. Carry enough clothes, shoes, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc. according to the season and weather of the park. Carry enough water, snacks, medicines, first aid kit, etc. according to your health and dietary needs. Carry enough cash, cards, documents, etc. according to your travel and security needs.

- Follow the rules and regulations of the park and its safari zones. Respect the wildlife and their habitat. Do not disturb or harm them in any way. Do not litter or pollute the park or its water sources. Do not feed or touch any animal or bird. Do not make any noise or flash any light that may scare or annoy them.

- Be alert and cautious at all times. Listen to your driver and guide carefully. Follow their instructions and advice diligently. Do not wander off or get out of your vehicle without their permission. Do not take any risk or challenge that may endanger your life or others.

- Enjoy your visit to the fullest. Appreciate the beauty and diversity of the park and its wildlife. Learn from your driver and guide about their behaviour, habits, habitats, etc. Take photographs or videos of your wildlife sightings as souvenirs or memories. Share your experience with others.

Tadoba National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. It is a place where you can witness the majestic tigers and other exotic animals in their natural habitat. It is a place where you can enjoy various attractions and activities that will thrill and delight you. It is a place where you can learn about the history and culture of the park and its people.

Thank you for reading this article. We hope you have enjoyed it.

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Incredible tadoba, tadoba safari.

Feel the thrill coursing through your veins as you encounter the majestic Bengal tigers up close during this heart-pounding safari ride. Traverse the three zones of pure excitement: the daring Moharli Zone, the captivating Tadoba Zone, and the awe-inspiring Kolsa Zone. Prepare to be blown away by the sheer excitement that awaits you at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve.

Flora & Fauna

Apart from Royal Bengal Tiger Tadoba is home to, Leopards, Sloth Bears, India Gaur (bison), Wild Dogs (Dhole), Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Barking deer, Four-horned Antelopeto name a few.

Best Time To Visit Tadoba

Best Time to Visit Tadoba Climate of Tadoba Tadoba Accommodation

How To Reach Tadoba

You can easily reach Tadoba through road, air and rail transport. Tadoba does not have its own railway station or an airport, but the nearest railway station is Chandrapur Railway Station and the nearest airport is Dr Babasaheeb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. 

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Temple of Taru In Tadoba

Tadoba and the vicinity were once ruled by the Gond kings who used these forests as hunting grounds until it was banned in 1935. In 1955, 116.54 sq km of the forest was declared Tadoba National Park.

The folklore says that TARU was the chief of the village who is believed to be killed in the tiger conflict.

The temple of God TARU still exists beside the picturesque Tadoba Lake under a huge tree.

Earlier, there used to be a fair in the Hindu month of Pausha i.e between December and January, when the tribes used to gather at the temple. At present, the fair is restricted.

Andhari region, named after the river ‘Andhari’, a minor river of Wainganga basin, meandering through the area, the river passes through Tadoba, Mohurli & Kolsa.

In the year 1995, Tadoba National Park and Andhari Tiger Reserve were subsequently integrated and declared as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) which comprises of Tadoba and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary.

Today it is one of the Project Tiger Reserves Existing in India.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) is the biggest and oldest tiger reserve in Maharashtra comprising an area of about 625 sq.km. of the core zone.

Tourism is permitted in the core and buffer zone.

Flora & Fauna of Tadoba

Flora of Tadoba

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is predominantly southern tropical dry forest with dense woodlands comprising about 87 per cent of the protected area.

Teak and Bamboo are the most popular species of the trees that are found here. Other trees include Ain (crocodile bark), Bija, Dhauda, Hald, Salai, Semal and Tendu. Beheda, Hirda, Karaya Gum, Mahua Madhuca (crepe myrtle) and Lannea coromandelica are other common species.

Axlewood (Anogeissus latifolia) is a fire-resistant species that can be found here. Palas or Flame of the forest (Butea monosperma) adds vibrant colour to the forest. Black plum trees grow in the riparian habitat around the lake.  One can be easily mesmerized by huge Arjun trees that are seen at the Panchadhara waterhole.

Grass and Bamboo can be  found in abundance throughout the reserve.The climber Kach Kujali (velvet bean) found here is a medicinal plant used to treat Parkinson’s disease.

The leaves of Bheria are used as an insect repellent and Bija is a medicinal gum.

Beheda is also an important medicine found here.

Fauna of Tadoba

Incredible Tadoba Safari

How Many Tigers Are There in Tadoba

As per the 2020 census and report of Dr Bilal Habib, Head of the Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Wildlife Institute of India, 88 indivisual Tigers were recorded using the SECR Methodology (44 exclusively in the core zone, 23 exclusively in the buffer zone and 21 in the core & the buffer zone) the estimated population of tigers in Tadoba is about 115 plus.

Over 30 species of reptiles are also found in this park such as the endangered Indian python, terrapins, star tortoise, cobra, etc. Apart from this, the giant wood spider, the signature spider, and redwood spiders are also found during the monsoon season.

More than 75 Species of Butterflies have been recorded here Pansies, Monarch, Mormons and Swordtails, to name a few.

Over 20 species of fishes can be found in and around Tadoba waterbodies

Birds of Tadoba

Birds of Tadoba

The presence of Stream Andhari inside the Tadoba National Park offers a route to a wide decent variety of water-winged creatures, and raptors.

Tadoba also witnesses summer and winter migratory birds from East Africa and Siberia every year.   The intriguing feathered species found in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve including the migratory  are, Orange-headed Thrush, Indian Pitta, Crested Treeswift, Stone Curlew, Crested Honey Buzzard, Paradise Flycatcher, Bronze-winged Jacana, Lesser Goldenbacked Woodpecker, Warblers,

Black-naped Blue Flycatcher, Oriental Honey Buzzard, White-eyed Buzzard, Pariah Kite, Eurasian Sparrow Hawk, Black Shouldered Kite, Shikra, Short-toed Snake Eagle, Bonelli’s Eagle, Common Kestrel, Open Bill Stork, Black Ibis, Bar Headed Goose, Black Strok,

Lesser Adjutant Strok, Brahminy Duck, Comb Duck, Little Grebe, Grey Heron, Large Egret, Median Egret, Indian Shag, Purple Heron, Banded Bay Cuckoo, White-breasted Water Hen, Green Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, River Tern, Painted Sand Grouse, Jungle Bush Quail, Indian Peafowl, Spotted Owlet,

Forest Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, House Sparrow, Indian Robbin, Indian Roller, Ruby Throat, Blue Throat, Black Redstart, Grey Tit, Common Stonechat, Brahminy Myna, Asian Pied Starling, House Crow,  Large-billed Crow, and many more.

Tadoba provides a varied experience in every season.

Tadoba National Park is open throughout the year {only Buffer Zones in Monsoon i.e 1st  July to 30th September} Best time to Visit Tadoba depends on what experience you are looking for.

The tropical climate makes winters the best season to visit Tadoba, winter starts in October and ends by February with pleasant climate and rich flora making it easier to spot animals during this season. This is also a good time to spot migratory birds.

Though the winters are not very cool in Tadoba the temperature ranges between 20°C and 30°C.  The refreshing breeze of winters also makes Tadoba a romantic getaway for couples.

Probability of sighting tigers is far more in Tadoba because of the number of tigers and the area.

The best season to sight tigers would be the hot months of summer which starts in March and lasts till May the hotter months of summer are April and May and is the time when the animals are seen due to the scarcity of water in the jungle.

The skies are clear in this season it is also a good time to spot birds.

Weather and Climate of Tadoba

After the scorching summers where the mercury rises up to 48 degrees, the arrival of the monsoon in June is a big relief. Though the climate becomes highly humid, the rains do not fail to revive the jungle.

As the rains make the terrain inaccessible the core zones of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve are closed between July and September and only the buffer zone is open for tourists. The visit to Tadoba National Park in the monsoon is sheer bliss where you can witness a completely different Tadoba.

Winter is the ideal time to explore Tadoba with lush greenery around. Starting from October winter lasts till February. Though the winters are not very cool in Tadoba the temperature ranges between 20°C and 30°C.

You can easily reach Tadoba through road, air and rail transport . Tadoba does not have its own railway station or an airport, but the nearest railway station is Chandrapur Railway Station and the nearest airport is Dr Babasaheeb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. 

Explore Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

We specialize in Customized Tadoba Holiday Packages . With our tailored itineraries for you, relax and enjoy a Hassle-Free Vacation in the Jungles of Tadoba.

With our handcrafted itineraries by the experts, we promise to save your time, money and efforts.

We’ve got 100s of handpicked options to suit your style and budget, from your accommodation to road transfer to booking the best jungle safaris for you, we have got it all.

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Open Jeep Safari or Game Drive is the most thrilling way of experiencing the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. The safari provides you with a unique opportunity, thrill and excitement of getting up close with nature. Experience safe encounters with the world-famous Bengal tigers on the safari ride as you travel in open, comfortable jeeps.

The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is divided into three zones, each having different access gates:

Moharli Zone | Tadoba Zone | Kolsa Zone

The folklore says that TARU was the chief of the village who is believed to be killed in the tiger conflict. The temple of God TARU still exists beside the picturesque Tadoba Lake under a huge tree.

The Temple of God TARU still exists beside the picturesque Tadoba Lake under a huge tree.

Tadoba Tour Packages

Over 30 species of reptiles are also found in this park such as endangered Indian python, terrapins, star tortoise, cobra, etc. Apart from this, giant wood spider, the signature spider, and redwood spiders are also found during monsoon season.

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How to reach tadoba national park by road, how to reach tadoba national park by train, how to reach tadoba national park by air.

  • Plan Your Tadoba Holiday

Chandrapur and Nagpur are well connected to all important cities through national highways and hence access to Tadoba National Park is easy via Chandrapur and Nagpur even by road.

The approximate Distance of Tadoba National Park from major cities of India is as below.

  • Nagpur to Tadoba – 132 Km, 2h 55 min (via Chandrapur – Mul – Nagbhir – Nagpur Hwy)
  • Pune to Tadoba- 788 Km, 13h 39 min (Via NH222)
  • Raipur to Tadoba – 333 Km, 5h 33 min (Via NH6)
  • Hyderabad to Tadoba – 435 Km, 8h 15 min (Via NH7)
  • Thane to Tadoba- 897 Km, 13h 37 min (via NH6)
  • Aurangabad to Tadoba – 530 Km, 10h (Via SH207)
  • Jabalpur to Tadoba- 416 Km, 7h 30 min (Via NH7)
  • Mumbai to Tadoba – 919 Km, 14h 21 min (Via NH6)
  • Bangalore to Tadoba – 1,075 Km, 15h 50 min (Via NH7)
  • Secunderabad to Tadoba – 479 Km, 7h 58 min (Via NH7)
  • Nasik to Tadoba – 754 Km, 11h 32 min (Via NH6)
  • Bhopal to Tadoba- 501 Km, 8h 12 min (Via NH69)

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45 km away from the Tadoba national park is the nearest railway station, Chandrapur. Located on New Delhi–Chennai main line of Indian Railways it receives trains from many major cities of India.

Nagpur Railway Station is also a good option for tourists who wish to visit Tadoba via train. Nagpur is a Major railway Junction nicely connected to the important cities and towns of the rest of the India. Tourists after reaching Nagpur, can take a cab, bus or train again to reach Tadoba National Park. Our Tadoba Packages comes with a pick and drop facility from Nagpur & Chandrapur railway Station

Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is the nearest airport to Tadoba National Park. Regular flights fly from Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata to Nagpur Our customized Tadoba Package comes with a pick and drop facility from Nagpur Airport

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COMMENTS

  1. Here Are Top Places To Visit Near Tadoba National Park

    Tadoba is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, which gives easy access to nearby attractions. These include national parks, forts, temples, and dams. Erai Dam, Moharli, Khosla Village, and Pench National Park are the prime attractions near Tadoba National Park. After an enchanting tour at one of India's most sought-after ...

  2. 6 Places to visit in Tadoba India 2024

    Wildlife (1) Shopping (1) 1. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. Top Attraction 3.5 /5. 0 km. from city center 1 out of 6. Places To Visit in Tadoba National Park. Perched at a height of 200m, the national park is the oldest in Maharashtra and is considered to be the second tiger reserve of the state.

  3. Top 10 Tourist Places Near Tadoba National Park

    Explore the vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and natural wonders by visiting these top 10 tourist places near Tadoba National Park. 1. Moharli: Located at the entrance of Tadoba National Park, Moharli is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the reserve. Apart from its scenic beauty, Moharli offers an opportunity to experience ...

  4. Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve: The Complete Guide

    The 1,700-square-kilometer reserve delivers many a tiger sighting and is known to provide a view of many. Founded in 1955, Tadoba National Park is the largest and oldest park in Maharashtra, India, located about 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Nagpur and 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Chandrapur. Enveloped in forests of teak and bamboo ...

  5. Places to Visit Near Tadoba National Park

    After exploring the wildlife of Tadoba, one should visit other national parks like Kanha National Park (322 Km), Pench National Park (256 Km), Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (167 Km), and Navegaon National Park (171 Km), as these are located nearby Tadoba and it gives a wonderful experience of lifetime.

  6. Tourist Information

    There are several ways to reach Tadoba, which is among the best connected tiger reserves in India. DRIVING: Nagpur is the closest large city and is just about 100km from the Kolara Gate and 150km from the Moharli Gate. Good highways connect Tadoba to Nagpur, Hyderabad, Amravati and Yevatmal. Tourists even drive in from as far afield as Pune ...

  7. Tadoba National Park: A safari guide's tips on the best time to visit

    Tadoba is also a great national park for birding. Close to 250 species of birds reside in and around the park. It's common to catch sight of the spotted dove, Indian roller, crested honey buzzard, shikra, crested serpent eagle, jungle babblers, spotted owlet, jungle owlet and black hooded oriole, among others.

  8. The Perfect Tadoba Itinerary: All must see and do

    Tadoba National Park was established in 1935, however, it got the status of a National Park in 1955. The national park is now a part of the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve which was formed in 1995. Tadoba National Park is abundant in flora and fauna. Notable trees that are found here, are a common sight in every dry deciduous forest.

  9. 3 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park

    Kolsa Jeep Safari. Wildlife. #3 of 3 Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park. At a distance of 44 km from Chandrapur and 165 km from Nagpur, Kolsa Zone is the most beautiful Zone in Tadoba National Park as for jungle quality matters. This zone has 3 entry gates Zari or Kolsa, Pangdi, and Mahurli. The wildlife sighting possibilities are ...

  10. Places to Visit Near Tadoba National Park

    Erai Dam. Erai dam is one of the most fascinating places to visit near Tadoba National Park. This dam is built on the Erai river. The dam is referred to as an earth fill and gravity dam. Erai Dam is just located next to Tadoba National Park. The height of this dam is 98ft (approx 30 m) and the length is 5310 ft (1620 m).

  11. 9 Things to do in Tadoba

    The perennial Irai lake is a major tourist attraction offering a residential territory for a wild array of birds and ... Hirda, Karaya gum, Mahua Madhuca, Arjun, Bamboo, Black Plum, and many others. Here is a List of Top 9 Things to do in Tadoba National Park: 1. Jeep Safari for Tiger and wildlife sighting in Tadoba ... Near Agarzari gate of ...

  12. Tadoba National Park (2024) > Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

    Get the best Information about Tadoba National Park Tourism. Get travel guides and plan your trip to Tadoba National Park with tour packages, places to visit, sightseeing, hotels, and reviews by other travellers ... The top places near to Tadoba are Adilabad which is 82 km from Tadoba, Hyderabad which is located 327 km from Tadoba, Nagpur which ...

  13. The Ultimate Guide To Tadoba National Park

    Tadoba National Park ticket price comprises - gypsy charge (₹ 2,700), guide charge (₹ 350), online processing fee (₹ 50) and entry fee. The entry fee varies from ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 8,000 depending on how many days in advance you are booking. Weekend safari costs more than that of weekdays. Weekdays - Entry fee.

  14. Tourist Places around Tadoba National Park

    You can certainly opt for such beautiful places in Tadoba and actually the love for tourists from all the corners. Erai Dam. Kolsa. Moharli. Tadoba Lake. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Tadoba National Park is one of the oldest and the leading national parks in India. Tadoba is famed for its wildlife and Tadoba Jeep Safari.

  15. Tadoba National Park: An experience of a lifetime

    Tadoba National Park in Central India is one of these tiger reserves that houses more than 40 of these Big Cats. Tadoba National Park is 116 Sq. Km in area. Together with Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to the park, the TATR (Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve) is spread across a total of 625 sq km. Deerscape.

  16. 5 must-see places to visit in Tadoba

    Below we have listed the 5 must-see places to visit in Tadoba to make your trip in Tadoba easy. Mahakali Mandir. Mahakali Mandir is one of the ancient temples of Chandrapura city. According to the mythology, the kali idol which is in this temple was found near the Zarapat river and as per the command of the Gonda dynasty Queen Hirawati , the ...

  17. Complete Travel Guide To Tadoba National Park

    Nearest airport to reach Tadoba is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur. There are flights that fly here from the major tier 1, tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Tadoba National Park is around 150 km from here and there are private taxi services from the airport. By road.

  18. 47 Top things to do in Tadoba National Park

    Not many people are aware of the ancient stone age sites in Chandrapur District. This is why, make time for this unusual place to see near Tadoba National Park. Visit Hirapur Dolmen. Another lesser-known place to see near Tadoba National Park and Suresh Chopane Rock Museum is the mysterious Hirapur Dolmen. I am sure you didn't know about this ...

  19. Guide to Tadoba National Park in India

    How to get to Tadoba. You can reach TATR by road, train, or even air. While there is no direct option, the fastest way is to fly into Nagpur International Airport, which is 85 miles from the park ...

  20. Tadoba National Park Tourism 2024

    About Tadoba National Park Overview The Tadoba National Park is a protected area in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It covers an area of about 625 km2 and is home to a large number of animal species, including tigers, leopards, and gaurs. The park is open to visitors from October to June.

  21. Tadoba National Park

    Kolsa Jeep Safari. Wildlife. #3 of 3 Places to Visit in Tadoba National Park. At a distance of 44 km from Chandrapur and 165 km from Nagpur, Kolsa Zone is the most beautiful Zone in Tadoba National Park as for jungle quality matters. This zone has 3 entry gates Zari or Kolsa, Pangdi, and Mahurli.

  22. Tadoba National Park

    Tadoba National Park, also known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, the park covers an area of 625 sq km and is home to more than 80 tigers, along with leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaur, and many other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

  23. Incredible Tadoba

    How to Reach Tadoba National Park by Train. 45 km away from the Tadoba national park is the nearest railway station, Chandrapur. Located on New Delhi-Chennai main line of Indian Railways it receives trains from many major cities of India. Nagpur Railway Station is also a good option for tourists who wish to visit Tadoba via train.