Nagpur, located at the geographical center of India, is not just an urban hub known for its oranges and central connectivity—it also serves as a gateway to some of the most diverse and thrilling wildlife experiences in the country. Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and rich biodiversity, the region around Nagpur is home to several wildlife sanctuaries that attract nature enthusiasts, photographers, bird watchers, and adventure seekers.
If you’re someone who wants to escape the city’s hustle and explore nature up close, these wildlife sanctuaries near Nagpur offer beginner-friendly yet unforgettable experiences. Here’s a detailed guide to the best sanctuaries within easy reach of Nagpur, complete with travel tips, timings, wildlife highlights, and entry details.
1. Pench Tiger Reserve (Sillari and Khursapar Gates)
Distance from Nagpur: 65–80 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Pench Tiger Reserve is one of the most famous wildlife parks near Nagpur and straddles the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. It inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book and is known for its thriving population of tigers, leopards, deer, and over 250 species of birds. The Sillari and Khursapar gates are most accessible from Nagpur.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Bengal Tigers
- Indian Leopard
- Wild Boar
- Spotted Deer, Sambar, Gaur
- Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Roller, and peacocks
Safari Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- Evening: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Best Season to Visit: October to June
Safari Options: Jeep Safari and Nature Walks
Local Tip: Book safaris online via the official forest department portals in advance, especially during peak season weekends.
2. Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Nagpur: 60 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Umred Karhandla is quickly becoming one of the most visited sanctuaries near Nagpur due to increased tiger sightings and its accessibility. The sanctuary gained popularity after the appearance of a majestic tiger named ‘Jai,’ who brought this place into the limelight.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Tigers (including cubs and sub-adults)
- Sloth Bears
- Indian Bison (Gaur)
- Jungle Cats, Foxes, and Civets
- Numerous bird species and butterflies
Safari Gates: Karhandla and Gothangaon
Safari Timings: Similar to Pench
Facilities: Basic rest houses, forest guides, and jeep rental available on-site
Best Time to Visit: November to May
Local Tip: Visit early in the morning for better chances of spotting wildlife, especially big cats.
3. Bor Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Nagpur: 70 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is a compact but ecologically rich sanctuary located near Wardha. It is now a part of the Pench Tiger Reserve’s buffer zone. Although smaller in size, it offers dense forest trails and high chances of spotting tigers, leopards, and other herbivores.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Tigers and leopards
- Nilgai and chital
- Barking deer and wild boar
- Rich avian life including parakeets, owls, and herons
Why Visit Bor:
- Less crowded than Pench or Umred
- Ideal for beginners and families
- Great for birdwatching and nature photography
Safari Booking: Available online and at the forest entry point
Local Tip: Bor Dam near the sanctuary is an ideal spot for a quick picnic and sunset view.
4. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Nagpur: 120 km (slightly over 100 km but highly recommended)
Travel Time: 3 hours
Though a little beyond the 100 km mark, Nagzira is too good to miss if you have a full weekend. Located in the Bhandara-Gondia region, Nagzira is often called the “Green Oasis of Vidarbha.” It offers rich biodiversity, dense teak forests, and a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Royal Bengal Tigers
- Leopards, Wild Dogs (Dholes)
- Sloth Bears, Indian Gaur
- Crocodiles, turtles in the Nagzira Lake
- Kingfishers, Eagles, and Hornbills
Entry Gates: Pitezari and Chorkhamara
Safari Details:
- Jeep Safari available in morning and evening
- Forest rest houses are available for overnight stays
Best Season: October to May
Local Tip: Carry ID proofs for safari registration. Opt for an overnight stay to explore both morning and evening safaris.
5. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Moharli Range – Optional Extension)
Distance from Nagpur: 140 km
Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Though not within 100 km, Tadoba is Maharashtra’s oldest and largest national park and deserves mention due to its popularity among wildlife lovers. Known for its high tiger density, Tadoba offers some of the best jungle safari experiences in the state.
Why Visit Tadoba:
- Very high chance of spotting tigers
- Well-developed safari infrastructure
- Option to explore multiple safari zones
Best Time: February to May for tiger sightings
Local Tip: Book safaris in advance for Moharli and Kolara zones for maximum sightings.
6. Koka Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Nagpur: 90 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
Koka Sanctuary is an emerging eco-tourism spot near Bhandara, still under the radar for most tourists. Known for its peaceful settings and lesser crowds, Koka is perfect for a quiet nature getaway.
Wildlife:
- Deer, jackals, wild boar
- Seasonal migratory birds
- Occasional leopard sightings
What to Do:
- Walk along the dam backwaters
- Birdwatching during early mornings
- Photography and forest trails
Accommodation: Forest guesthouses and nearby farm stays
Local Tip: Ideal for nature lovers who prefer calm over commercial.
7. Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Nagpur: 100 km (approx)
Travel Time: 3 hours
Located near Yavatmal district, Tipeshwar is gaining attention for its growing tiger population and untouched forest landscapes. It is less developed than Pench or Tadoba but provides an authentic jungle experience.
Wildlife Attractions:
- Bengal Tigers
- Wild boars, foxes, jungle cats
- Rich floral diversity and medicinal plants
Safari Options:
- Jeep safaris via forest gates
- Advance booking essential as safari infrastructure is developing
Best Season: Post-monsoon to early summer
Local Tip: Pair your visit with a rural tour of nearby villages to experience local culture.
8. Seminary Hills and Telankhedi Forest Trails (Within Nagpur)
Distance: Within city limits
Perfect for beginners or those short on time, Seminary Hills offers short forest trails, birdwatching opportunities, and occasional sightings of monkeys, peacocks, and small reptiles.
Why Visit:
- Urban forest experience
- Ideal for morning walks or jogs
- Safe and family-friendly
Local Tip: Visit during early mornings to spot local bird species and enjoy the sunrise from the viewpoint.
Wildlife Watching Tips for Beginners
- Best Time for Safari: Early morning is the best time for animal activity. Evening safaris are also rewarding but may have lower visibility.
- What to Wear: Neutral-colored clothing, preferably in earthy tones. Avoid bright colors and strong perfumes.
- What to Carry:
- Binoculars for bird watching
- Camera with zoom lens
- Water bottle, cap, sunscreen
- ID proof for entry and permits
- Follow Guidelines: Maintain silence, don’t litter, and avoid feeding animals.
- Safety First: Always stay inside the vehicle during safaris and follow the forest guide’s instructions.
How to Book Safari Permits Near Nagpur
Most wildlife sanctuaries now offer online booking through official websites of the Maharashtra Forest Department. Some also allow offline booking at forest entry gates, but online reservation is recommended during weekends and holiday seasons.
Essential Websites for Booking:
- www.mahaecotourism.gov.in
- forest.mponline.gov.in (for Madhya Pradesh gates of Pench)
- individual sanctuary or tiger reserve portals
Mobile Network and Connectivity
Most sanctuaries have limited mobile network coverage. It’s advisable to download offline maps, inform someone about your travel plans, and avoid relying on GPS completely in remote areas.
Eco-friendly Travel Practices
- Carry reusable water bottles and bags
- Avoid plastic waste
- Support local eco-tourism by choosing certified guides and local homestays
- Do not disturb wildlife for photos or social media videos
The sanctuaries near Nagpur offer a unique blend of adventure, education, and deep connection with nature. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family group, these protected forests present countless opportunities to witness the wild heart of Central India.