When people think of Maharashtra’s wilderness, the spotlight often falls on the famous tiger haunts like Tadoba or Pench. Yet, scattered across the state are lesser-known sanctuaries that teem with life, from rare birds hidden in misty canopies to herds of blackbuck racing across open grasslands. These quiet corners of the wild protect the state’s rich biodiversity and offer travellers intimate, crowd-free encounters with nature.
Here’s a closer look at seven sanctuaries that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Known as the pride of Maharashtra’s wildlife reserves, Tadoba–Andhari is a critical habitat under India’s Project Tiger programme. Here, the forests echo with the calls of spotted deer and langurs while the park’s star attraction—the Bengal tiger—prowls unseen through sal and bamboo groves. Divided into three main zones (Moharli, Tadoba, and Kolsa) the park is best explored on guided jeep safaris, with open-top gypsies adding a sense of adventure. The gates open to visitors from mid-October to the end of June, closing every Tuesday for conservation work.
Tucked into the Satpura hill ranges, Melghat is a vast, rugged expanse where the teak forests conceal leopards, sloth bears, and packs of wild dogs. It is also a paradise for bird lovers, especially those seeking the elusive forest owlet, a critically endangered species thought extinct until rediscovered here. Its sheer size means you can spend days exploring without encountering another safari vehicle. Wildlife activity peaks in the dry months from December to May, when animals gather at shrinking water sources.
Straddling Maharashtra’s border with Madhya Pradesh, Pench is as storied as it is scenic—this is the very jungle that inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” Its riverine landscape supports an astonishing variety of life: 33 species of mammals, over 160 kinds of birds, and a dazzling assortment of reptiles and insects. Monsoon rains (July to September) turn Pench into a lush paradise, but most visitors prefer the cooler, wildlife-rich months between October and February. Morning and evening safaris reveal everything from fish-eagles to jackals and, if you’re lucky, a tiger on the hunt.
This compact 2.17 sq km sanctuary protects one of India’s most graceful antelopes—the blackbuck. Located about 80 km from Ahmednagar city, Rehekuri offers a chance to watch these striking creatures with their spiralling horns sprint across open meadows. Established in the 1980s, it is now home to around 400 blackbuck. The best time to visit is in the late monsoon months of August and September, when the grasslands are lush and sightings are frequent, particularly before mid-afternoon.
A UNESCO-recognised natural heritage site, Radhanagari combines steep forested slopes with rich biodiversity. The air here resonates with the calls of Nilgiri wood pigeons and the rhythmic wingbeats of Oriental turtle doves. The Indian bison (gaur) is a common sight, along with rare birds like the Ceylon frogmouth and dusky eagle-owlet. Trekking is one of the best ways to experience the sanctuary, with trails offering glimpses of wildlife and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. August to February offers the most pleasant conditions for exploring.
Famed as the home of the Indian giant squirrel (the vibrant state animal) Bhimashankar’s forests also shelter leopards, barking deer, wild boars, and a host of birdlife, including the Malabar grey hornbill and black eagle. Well-marked forest trails make it a favourite among trekkers, though safari rides are also available. Adding a spiritual dimension to the visit is the presence of one of Lord Shiva’s 12 jyotirlinga shrines, drawing pilgrims and wildlife enthusiasts. The months from October to March are ideal for a combined nature-and-culture experience.
This remote sanctuary spans over 100 sq km and protects a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards, blue bulls, flying squirrels, and peafowl. Its rich flora is equally captivating, with mango, jamun, and bamboo groves creating a lush canopy, while flowering shrubs like neel and tarota add splashes of vibrant color. The sanctuary’s lifeline is provided by two rivers, the Pamalgautam and Parlkota, which meander through its heart. Best time to visit is between October and May, when the climate is pleasant and the park is in full bloom, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Always book safaris and guided treks in advance, especially in peak seasons.
Many sanctuaries have restricted visiting hours—plan accordingly.
Avoid loud noises and bright clothing to increase your chances of sightings.
Carry enough water, sun protection, and insect repellent.
Respect local customs and any spiritual sites within sanctuary limits.
Visit maharashtratourism.gov.in for detailed information.
Plan your trip at mahabooking.com.
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