Tadoba National Park
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, also known as Tadoba National Park, is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Maharashtra, India. Spread over an area of 625 square kilometers, it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, Indian bison, and a variety of bird species.
Established in 1995, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve was named after the Tadoba Lake, which is situated in the middle of the reserve. The Andhari River, which flows through the sanctuary, adds to its natural beauty and also serves as a water source for the wildlife.
The park is divided into three zones: Tadoba, Kolsa, and Morhurli. The Tadoba zone is the most popular among tourists, as it has a higher tiger population and offers better chances of spotting the majestic big cats. The Kolsa and Morhurli zones, on the other hand, have fewer visitors and are relatively untouched.
If you're planning to explore Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, the ideal period to visit would be from February to May. During this time, the temperature remains comfortable, and the wildlife sightings are more frequent. However, the park remains open from October to June, and each season has its unique charm.
Apart from tiger sightings, visitors can enjoy various activities like jungle safaris, bird watching, and nature walks. The park also has a museum that showcases the local culture and the history of the reserve.
The wildlife sanctuary has been successful in conservation efforts, and the tiger population has been steadily increasing in recent years. The park has also implemented several measures to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promote eco-tourism.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Tadoba National Park
- Moharli Gate: The Moharli Gate is the main entrance to the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, and it is situated close to the Moharli Village. This gate is located in the Moharli zone, and it is a popular starting point for jungle safaris.
- Tadoba Lake: Tadoba Lake is situated in the middle of the reserve, after which the park is named. It is a large lake surrounded by lush green forests, and it is a great spot for bird watching and photography.
- Bhadravati Temple: The Bhadravati Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is located near the Tadoba Lake. It is a popular pilgrimage spot for locals and tourists alike, and the temple has a unique architecture that reflects the local culture.
- Pandharpauni: Pandharpauni is a small village located close to the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is famous for its Hanuman Temple, which is considered to be one of the oldest temples in the region. The village is also known for its beautiful handicrafts, which are made by the local artisans.
- Khosla Village: Khosla Village is a small tribal village located in the Kolsa zone of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. The village is known for its unique culture and traditions, and visitors can get a glimpse of the tribal way of life by interacting with the locals.
- Andhari River: The Andhari River is one of the major water sources in the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, and it flows through the park, adding to its natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park.
- Devada Lake: Devada Lake is a small lake located in the Morhurli zone of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is a popular spot for bird watching and nature photography, and visitors can also enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Best Time to Visit Tadoba National Park
The best time to visit Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is between November and May. During this time, the weather is pleasant and dry, which makes it easier to spot wildlife. The park is closed during the monsoon season, which starts from June and lasts until October, due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
The winter months of December to February are considered the best time to spot tigers in the reserve. During this time, the vegetation is sparse, and the water sources are limited, which makes it easier to spot tigers and other wildlife around the water bodies. The temperatures during the winter months can drop to as low as 10°C, so visitors are advised to carry warm clothing.
The summer months of March to May are also a good time to visit the park, especially for birdwatching. The temperatures during these months can soar up to 45°C, but the park is open for longer hours, which increases the chances of spotting wildlife. Visitors are advised to carry hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen during the summer months.
Visitors are advised to avoid visiting the park during the peak monsoon season, as the park is closed, and the heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides in the area. The park remains closed from July to October.
Tadoba National Park Timings
Safari Timings: The safari timings in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve vary depending on the season. In winter (October to February), the morning safari starts at 7:00 am and ends at 10:30 am, while the afternoon safari starts at 2:30 pm and ends at 6:00 pm. In summer (March to June), the morning safari starts at 6:00 am and ends at 9:30 am, while the afternoon safari starts at 3:00 pm and ends at 6:30 pm.
Park Entry Timings: The park entry timings in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve are from 6:00 am to 10:00 am in the morning and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the afternoon.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is from February to May when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting tigers are high. However, visitors can also visit the park during the winter months (October to January) when the weather is cool and the park is lush green.
Accommodation Check-in and Check-out Timings: The check-in time for most of the accommodations inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is 12:00 pm, while the check-out time is 11:00 am. Visitors are advised to check the specific timings with their accommodation provider before booking.
It is important to note that the timings may change due to various reasons such as weather conditions or government regulations. Visitors are advised to check the latest timings with the park authorities or their accommodation provider before planning their visit.
How to Reach Tadoba National Park
By Air:
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is situated about 140 km away from the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which happens to be the closest airport to the park. This airport is well-linked to various prominent Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Tourists can either book a taxi or board a bus from the airport to reach the reserve.
By Train:
Chandrapur Railway Station, located approximately 45 km from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, is the nearest railway station to the park. This station is well-linked to several significant cities in India, such as Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. To reach the park from the railway station, visitors can either rent a taxi or board a bus.
By Road:
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is well-connected to major cities in Maharashtra like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur via road. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from these cities to reach the park. The park is located around 40 km from Chandrapur and 150 km from Nagpur.
Local Transportation:
Visitors can hire a jeep or a canter from the park's entry gate to take a safari inside the park. These vehicles are available for hire from early morning until late afternoon. Visitors are advised to book their safari in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Tadoba National Park Jungle safaris
Jungle safaris are the main attraction of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, and they provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the park and spot the diverse wildlife. The park offers both morning and evening safaris, which are conducted in open-top vehicles and led by experienced guides. Here are some details about the safari options in the park:
Jeep Safaris: Jeep safaris are the most popular option for visitors, as they provide a more personalized and flexible experience. The jeeps can accommodate up to six passengers, and visitors can choose between a half-day or a full-day safari. The half-day safari lasts for around four hours, while the full-day safari lasts for around eight hours. Visitors can book jeep safaris through the park's website or at the entrance gate.
Canter Safaris: Canter safaris are another option for visitors who prefer to travel in larger groups. Canter safaris are conducted in 20-seater open-top vehicles, and they are ideal for families or groups of friends. Canter safaris are also cheaper than jeep safaris, and they provide visitors with a chance to interact with other travelers. The duration of the canter safari is around four hours.
Elephant Safaris: Elephant safaris are a unique and thrilling way to explore the park. Visitors can ride on the back of trained elephants and get up close and personal with the wildlife. Elephant safaris are conducted in the morning and last for around two hours. Visitors can book elephant safaris through the park's website or at the entrance gate.
Night Safaris: Night safaris are a special experience that allows visitors to explore the park after dark. Night safaris are conducted in open-top vehicles, and visitors can witness the park's nocturnal wildlife, such as owls, civets, and hyenas. Night safaris are only conducted in the Moharli zone of the park, and they last for around two hours.
It is important to note that visitors need to obtain a permit from the park authorities to participate in any of the safaris. The permits can be booked online or at the entrance gate, and visitors are advised to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Tiger Sightings Points in Tadoba National Park
Telia Lake: Telia Lake is situated in the Telia zone of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is surrounded by thick forest and grasslands, which makes it an ideal spot for tiger sightings. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and try their luck at spotting a tiger.
Tadoba Lake: Tadoba Lake is one of the most popular tiger watch points in the reserve. Tigers are known to frequent the lake to quench their thirst, especially during the hot summer months. Visitors can take a jeep safari or a walking tour around the lake to spot tigers and other wildlife.
Kolsa Lake: Kolsa Lake is located in the Kolsa zone of the reserve, and it is another popular spot for tiger sightings. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. Visitors can take a jeep safari or a walking tour around the lake to increase their chances of spotting a tiger.
Pandharpauni: Pandharpauni is a small village located near the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is situated in the buffer zone of the park, and it is a popular spot for tiger sightings. Visitors can take a walking tour around the village and the surrounding forest to spot tigers and other wildlife.
Junona: Junona is a small water body located in the Moharli zone of the park. It is a popular spot for tiger sightings, especially during the hot summer months when the tigers come to the water to cool off. Visitors can take a jeep safari or a walking tour around the lake to spot tigers and other wildlife.
It is important to remember that tiger sightings are not guaranteed, and visitors need to be patient and keep their eyes open. Visitors should also follow the park rules and regulations and maintain a safe distance from the wildlife at all times.
Best Hotel in Tadoba National Park
- Svasara Jungle Lodge: This luxurious jungle lodge is located near the Kolara gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It provides cozy cottages and tents equipped with contemporary facilities, along with a refreshing swimming pool, a rejuvenating spa, and a dining facility that serves a blend of local and international dishes.
- Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge: This eco-friendly lodge is located near the Moharli gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers well-appointed rooms and cottages with attached bathrooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a library.
- Tadoba Tiger King Resort: This resort is located near the Kolara gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers air-conditioned cottages and tents with attached bathrooms, a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine, and a swimming pool.
- MTDC Resort: This government-run resort is located near the Moharli gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers basic rooms and cottages with attached bathrooms, a restaurant serving vegetarian cuisine, and a playground for children.
- Serai Tiger Resort: This luxury resort is located near the Kolara gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
- Tiger Trails Jungle Lodge: This jungle lodge is located near the Khutwanda gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers spacious rooms and cottages with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a restaurant serving Indian and continental cuisine, and a library.
- Tadoba View Resort: This resort is located near the Moharli gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers air-conditioned rooms and cottages with attached bathrooms, a restaurant serving vegetarian cuisine, and a garden with a bonfire pit.
- Svasara Earth Lodge: This eco-friendly lodge is located near the Kolara gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers luxurious suites and villas with private plunge pools, a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine, and a wellness center.
- Jungle Niwas: This lodge is located near the Kolara gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers basic rooms and cottages with attached bathrooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a garden with a bonfire pit.
- Jharana Jungle Lodge: This lodge is located near the Moharli gate of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It offers comfortable rooms and cottages with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a library.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tadoba National Park
Q: What is the entry fee for Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve?
A: The entry fee for Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve varies depending on the nationality of the visitor. For Indian nationals, the entry fee is Rs. 1000 per person, and for foreign nationals, the entry fee is Rs. 4,000 per person. Additionally, visitors need to pay a vehicle fee and a camera fee.
Q: What is the safari timing in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve?
A: The safari timings in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve depend on the season. During the winter months of October to February, the morning safari starts at 6:30 am and ends at 10:30 am, while the afternoon safari starts at 2:30 pm and ends at 6:30 pm. During the summer months of March to June, the morning safari starts at 6:00 am and ends at 10:00 am, while the afternoon safari starts at 3:00 pm and ends at 7:00 pm.
Q: What is the duration of a safari in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve?
A: The duration of a safari in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is around 3-4 hours, depending on the zone and the sightings. Visitors can choose to take a jeep safari or a canter safari, and they can book their safari in advance through the official website or the booking counter at the park's entry gate.
Q: Is accommodation available inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve?
A: Yes, there are several accommodation options available inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, including forest lodges, guesthouses, and tented camps. Visitors can book their accommodations in advance through the official website or the booking counter at the park's entry gate.
Q: Are there any restrictions for visitors inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve?
A: Yes, visitors need to follow certain rules and regulations while inside Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. These include maintaining a safe distance from the wildlife, not feeding the animals, not littering, and not carrying any plastic inside the park. Additionally, smoking and consuming alcohol are strictly prohibited inside the park. Visitors are advised to follow these rules for their safety and the safety of the wildlife.