Situated in Maharashtra’s Chandrapur district is one of India’s most captivating wildlife destinations,
Tadoba National Park, also called Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. This protected forest is a haven for
nature lovers and wildlife photographers. It provides a raw and engaging jungle experience that few
parks in India can match.
Tadoba’s History
Tadoba gets its name from Taru, a local tribal deity believed to have lived in the forests. He died in a
heroic encounter with a tiger. The local tribes honor his spirit with a shrine inside the park. The name
Andhari originates from the Andhari River, which flows through the region, completing the reserve’s full
name: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).
Established as a national park in 1955, it merged with the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary in 1986. The park
became a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1995.
Landscape and Biodiversity
Covering 1,727 square kilometers, Tadoba’s landscape is a mixture of dry deciduous forests, bamboo,
meadows, and lakes. The dense teak and bamboo forests provide an ideal home for a variety of wildlife.
Wildlife of Tadoba:
- Bengal Tiger: Main attraction, frequently spotted due to the open terrain.
- Leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs (dholes), gaurs, sambar deer, nilgai, and crocodiles.
- Over 280 species of birds, including crested serpent eagles, paradise flycatchers, and peacocks, with
some migratory birds. - A diverse population of butterflies, spiders, and reptiles.
Safari Experience
Tadoba is known for having one of the highest tiger sighting rates in India. The reserve has several entry
gates, including Moharli, Kolara, Navegaon, and Zari, each providing access to different zones. Each zone
has its own buffer gates and territorial forest. In total, Tadoba has 25 safari gates for tourism.
- Jeep Safaris (morning and evening) are the most popular. With full-day and half-day safari options.
- Cruiser Safaris are also available in some zones for group travel.
- Expert naturalists and drivers enhance the experience with their deep knowledge of the jungle and
animal behavior.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open from October to June, with summer (March to May) being the best time to see tigers,
as they frequent watering holes. The monsoon season (July to September) is the breeding season, and
the core zone is closed to visitors during this time. Buffer zones are still open for safaris in the monsoon.
How to Reach Tadoba
- By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, about 140 km
away. - By Train: The nearest railway station is Chandrapur, located 45 km from the park.
- By Road: Tadoba is well-connected by road to Nagpur and other major cities in Maharashtra.
Responsible Tourism Tips
- Mobile phones are strictly banned inside the park.
- Respect the forest and strictly follow park guidelines.
- Do not litter or feed the animals.
- Keep quiet during safaris to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Book safaris in Advance
Final Thoughts
Tadoba National Park is more than just a tiger reserve; it’s a journey into the heart of India’s wild
landscape. Whether you want to spot a majestic tiger, hear the call of a bird, or lose yourself in the
peaceful forest, Tadoba provides an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
