Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of India’s oldest and most renowned tiger reserves. Popularly known as Tadoba National Park, it is a paradise for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers who dream of spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat.
Overview of Tadoba National Park
Established in 1955, Tadoba is the largest and oldest national park in Maharashtra. It later became part of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, which combines Tadoba National Park and the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary.
The reserve covers over 1,700 square kilometers of dense forests, bamboo thickets, grasslands, and serene lakes. The name “Tadoba” is derived from the local tribal deity “Tadoba,” while “Andhari” refers to the Andhari River that flows through the forest.
Wildlife in Tadoba
Tadoba is best known for its healthy tiger population and high chances of tiger sightings. Apart from tigers, the park is home to:
Leopards
Sloth Bears
Wild Dogs (Dholes)
Indian Bison (Gaur)
Sambar Deer
Chital (Spotted Deer)
Nilgai
Marsh Crocodiles
The park also hosts over 200 species of birds, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatchers.
Landscape and Natural Beauty
Tadoba features a beautiful mix of dry deciduous forests and open meadows. The Tadoba Lake is one of the most scenic spots inside the park and attracts a variety of animals, especially during the summer season when wildlife gathers near water sources.
The Moharli, Kolara, and Navegaon zones are among the most popular safari gates.
Safari Experience
Jeep safaris are the main way to explore Tadoba National Park. Both morning and evening safaris are available, guided by trained forest guides and drivers. Early morning safaris offer better chances of tiger sightings.
The park is divided into core and buffer zones, with both offering rewarding wildlife experiences.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tadoba is from October to June. Summer months (March to May) are particularly good for tiger sightings, as animals frequently visit waterholes.
The park usually remains closed during the monsoon season (July to September).
How to Reach
Tadoba National Park is well connected by road:
Nearest Railway Station: Chandrapur
Nearest Airport: Nagpur
Easily accessible from Nagpur by road (approx. 3–4 hours drive)
Why Visit Tadoba?
High tiger sighting probability
Rich biodiversity
Less crowded compared to some other tiger reserves
Ideal for wildlife photography
Authentic jungle experience
Conclusion
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve offers a thrilling journey into India’s wild heart. With its majestic tigers, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, Tadoba stands as one of the best destinations for an unforgettable jungle safari experience.