Top 5 Tiger Reserves in Maharashtra

Let’s start the list of tiger reserves in Maharashtra with the popular Tadoba-Andhari wildlife sanctuary. One of the oldest and largest tiger reserves in the state, it covers a distance of over 1,727 sq km. If tiger spotting has been on your bucket list, this is the place to tick it off. You can indulge in a tiger safari expedition spotting the Royal Bengal tigers among others.

Talking about the safari! It is divided into three zones, Moharli Zone for tiger spotting and Tadoba and Kolsa zone for witnessing the mesmerising landscape and wildlife diversity. Gracing the Chandrapur district, the Tadoba-Andhari wildlife sanctuary is truly a traveller’s paradise. The best part - it is easily accessible. All you have to do is to book a flight to Nagpur and hit the roads. The distance of 140 km can be covered by private taxis or public transport.

Straddling between Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the Pench tiger reserve is indeed one of the most popular reserves among tourists. Owing to its rich biodiversity, it is regarded as one of the best tiger reserves in Maharashtra. The shimmering River Pench flowing inside the park adds to the charm and beauty of this place. To explore this vast region, safari drives are the most convenient and exciting way. You can hop on a jeep in the early morning or evening to spot the tigers in their natural habitat.

Time for trivia: The Jungle Book, the fictional work of Rudyard Kipling is based on the Pench Tiger Reserve. Wondering about the best time to visit? The months from November to April are considered ideal because, with the pleasant weather in these months, you will have the best sightseeing experience. If you remain friendly with the summers, May and June can be an excellent time to spot a Bengal Tiger. To reach here, you can take a flight to Nagpur or Jabalpur, followed by a short road journey.

One of the largest tiger reserves in Maharashtra, Navegaon Nagzira Tiger Reserve is a hidden haven waiting to be explored. What makes it more special is that It contributes nearly 1/6 of the country’s total tiger population. If you are lucky enough, you can spot many tigers in their undisturbed habitat. You can visit the reserve any time of the year. However, the months from November to February are the ideal months to make the most of your trip. A friendly tip - always remember to check the timings before planning your tour as it changes according to the seasons.

If you are planning to approach this reserve via airways, you will have to take a flight to Nagpur which is at a distance of over 130 km away.

If you are looking to spend some time in the lap of nature while witnessing the allure of exquisite wildlife, you must head to the Umred Karhandla Tiger Reserve. Surrounded by majestic hills and lush greenery, the region is a natural paradise that will make you fall in love with it in no time. Covering an area of over 180 sq km, it is among the biggest tiger reserves in Maharashtra. Besides tigers, the region is home to several species of animals like honey badgers, pangolins and wild dogs.

If you have started planning a visit to one of the famous tiger reserves in Maharashtra, the best time is from the month of March to June. Remember, it remains closed during the monsoon season. A flight to Nagpur will take you here without any hassle. Once you deboard, you can book a cab to reach your destination, which is just 30 km away.

Located in the heart of the Satara district, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary has often found its place in every Maharashtra travel guide. Spanning over an area of 423 sq km of lush greenery, the region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Also, the sanctuary is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the most sought-after places to visit in Maharashtra.

Here, you can see Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, sloth bears, mouse deer and sambar deer. Not only this, there is an exceptional population of Indian giant squirrels and common grey langurs. While exploring the rich wildlife is an unforgettable experience, enjoying a stay at one of the camps is even more exciting. You can book a jungle stay in and around the park for an adventurous expedition. To make the most of your visit, plan your trip around the month of October. Wondering how to reach here? Take a flight to Mumbai and cover the rest of the 273 km distance via roadways.

Now, you know about the abundant wildlife of the state. So, what are you waiting for? Quench your thirst for a soul-stirring wildlife tour at one of these tiger reserves in Maharashtra.