An Insider’s Guide to Nagpur National Park

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, a prominent park within the Nagpur National Park network, is one of the largest and oldest National Parks in Maharashtra. It’s around 150 kilometres from Nagpur city and is an easy drive, making it an ideal weekend getaway. Tadoba is named after the local deity ‘Taru,’ worshipped by the tribal people residing in the area.

The Park is home to a range of biodiversity, including a rich population of Royal Bengal Tigers. Other fauna includes Indian leopards, sloth bears, gaur, nilgai, dhole, striped hyena, small Indian Civet, jungle cats, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, chital, and Chausingha. The park also shelters around 195 species of birds and an incredible variety of reptiles.

The Nagpur National Park circuit wouldn’t be complete without visiting Tadoba. Its unique wildlife and the thrill of a jungle safari in open jeeps make it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Approximately 90 kilometres from Nagpur, Pench National Park is another crown jewel of the Nagpur National Park circuit. It straddles the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh and derives its name from the Pench River that meanders through the park.

Pench National Park is famed for its significant role in inspiring Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” Here, you can spot tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and several species of deer. The park is also a haven for bird watchers with over 210 identified bird species.

The park’s unique features include its tropical moist deciduous forests and its Mowgli-like environment. No visit to the Nagpur National Park circuit would be complete without a safari through Pench.

Another gem in the Nagpur National Park circuit is the Bor Wildlife Sanctuary. This lesser-known national park is located around 65 kilometres from Nagpur. The sanctuary is spread across 138.12 square kilometres and is situated along the southern boundary of Nagpur district.

The Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various species of animals like tigers, leopards, wild dogs, wild boars, sloth bears, peacocks, blue bulls, and many others. The rich biodiversity of this place offers an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography and nature education.

The Nag River and the Bor River flow through this sanctuary, adding to the picturesque beauty of the place. For visitors exploring the Nagpur National Park circuit, this sanctuary offers a unique perspective on wildlife conservation efforts in India.

Approximately 130 kilometres from Nagpur, the Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of the exciting Nagpur National Park trail. It is nestled between Bhandara district and Gondia district of Maharashtra.

The sanctuary is blessed with a rich biodiversity that houses nearly 34 species of mammals, 166 species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, and 4 species of amphibians. The animal species in this sanctuary include tigers, panthers, bison, sambar deer, nilgai, chital, and wild boar, amongst others. Moreover, the lush greenery and the chance to witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat make a visit to this part of the Nagpur National Park circuit a must for any wildlife enthusiast.

Navegaon National Park, located approximately 150 km from Nagpur, is a notable mention on our Nagpur National Park list. Established in the 18th century, this park is a beloved host to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

The Navegaon Lake, situated within the park, serves as an inviting habitat for various bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching. Migratory birds, including the stunning winter visitors from Siberia, are a special attraction in the park.

In terms of wildlife, you can find an abundance of species here, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, and sambar. The park also hosts an aviary, a deer park, and three beautiful gardens. The watchtower in the park offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and forests, and the lake is a hotspot for boating and fishing, adding a dash of adventure to your visit.

Melghat Tiger Reserve, while a bit further from Nagpur (approximately 225 km), is a vital part of the Amravati district in Maharashtra. This reserve is among the first nine tiger reserves notified in 1973-74 under Project Tiger, a tiger conservation program launched by the Government of India.

The forest is an unending expanse of dry deciduous type, interspersed with lush, semi-evergreen and moist sub-tropical patches. The terrain is rugged and hilly, crisscrossed by the mighty Tapti River and its tributaries.

The reserve is known for its tiger population, but it also houses other animals like panthers, sloth bears, sambar, wild dog, and rare Indian pangolins. The avian life at Melghat is also quite rich, making it an exciting destination for bird watchers. The reserve has an ‘Aamkhas’ lake, which serves as an ideal spot for bird watching.

The Nagpur National Park circuit, with its diverse range of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, is truly a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Each national park near Nagpur presents a unique and breathtaking experience for visitors.

By visiting these parks, you’ll not only have the chance to witness some of the world’s most stunning and endangered wildlife up close but also have the opportunity to contribute to their conservation. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a dedicated wildlife enthusiast, the Nagpur National Park circuit is sure to provide a wealth of experiences and memories.

Remember, it’s crucial to respect the parks’ rules and the natural habitats of these beautiful creatures. Let’s admire them in their wild spaces without causing any disturbance.

If you’ve been looking for an escape to nature, or a chance to explore wildlife, the Nagpur National Park circuit is your answer. With rich biodiversity and the thrilling experience of observing wildlife in their natural surroundings, it’s a trip that promises to be unforgettable. Come, explore, and cherish the beauty of the natural world at Nagpur National Park circuit!