Discovering the Majesty of Tadoba Reserve: A Thrilling Jungle Safari Adventure

Jeep Safari at Tadoba Tiger Reserve

TADOBA

Sometimes impromptu plans are amazing. I was in Nagpur for work and we had a day in hand to explore the city. With no interest in exploring the hustle of the city, the idea of a day visit to Tadoba Reserve Jungle Safari was proposed by a dear friend. Without even blinking, I jumped and said yes! Although I am not an animal lover the level of excitement of a jungle safari couldn’t be matched. This was my first visit to Tadoba Tiger Reserve and I was super thrilled, as I love to be amidst nature.

About Tadoba Reserve

Nestled in the heart of Maharashtra, India, lies a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers – the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and spectacular tiger sightings, Tadoba beckons adventurers to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of its jungles. Join me as I recount my exhilarating journey through the wilderness of Tadoba on a jungle safari, where every twist and turn revealed a new marvel of nature.

Established in 1955, Tadoba National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Maharashtra along with Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary making it as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. Located in Chandrapur district, Tadoba is also referred to as the Real Land of the Tiger housing one of the largest populations of tigers besides leopards and other animals.

Sambhar at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Safari at Tadoba

Standing at the threshold of Tadoba, a wave of anticipation washed over me. Imagination ran wild as I envisioned the myriad creatures awaiting discovery amidst the lush foliage. With each passing moment, the air crackled with excitement, building up to the momentous safari ahead. Accompanied by the seasoned forest guides, we ventured deep into the heart of Tadoba’s wilderness. Their expertise and intimate knowledge of the terrain added an extra layer of anticipation to the journey.

I have been jinxed for not getting even a glimpse of the majestic wild big cats in any of my earlier safaris in various reserves in India. As we started, a fellow mate said don’t start your expedition with an expectation to get a peek-a-boo of the wild cat, and you will be surprised. Trust me, the action-packed jungle safari was a pleasant surprise. The rustling leaves, dusty pathways, and water bodies with a glimpse of avian varieties and a peek-a-boo of the glorious sunset made the safari a memorable one.

We took the afternoon safari thinking we could spot the king of jungle near the water bodies as the day was getting warmer. As the jeep takes twists and turns in the dense forest, our eyes pop out with our heads turning left-right-left. The game of hide and seek begins in no time. A calm forest with rustling foliage and the chirping of birds was no less than a melody. A jeep ride with expectations and hopes, we were in the middle of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve.

Safari Zones at Tadoba

Tadoba has two zones –core and buffer. The core zone has six gates while the buffer has twelve. The most popular gate in the core zone is Moharli and Agarzari in the buffer zone. You can be lucky in any of the zones. There is no guarantee of spotting the tigers from any other gates. It is advisable to do at least 2-3 safaris in various zones to a glimpse of the big wild cat.

Core Zone of Tadoba Andhari National Park

Encounters with Wildlife at Tadoba

Hope and expectation are the two emotions that play a dirty game with human beings. We were in search of the majestic striped creature but we encountered many other rare and gorgeous species residing in Tadoba. As our jeep took speed, our guide started narrating the stories of tigers, their behavioural patterns, and how they look for prey and disappear for days after the kill. Although our focus was to get a sight of the big wild cat and who would spot it first, we did give our ears to the guide. And there we go, a mommy and a baby bear walk right in front of our jeep. The playful sloth bears ambled through the foliage after we all took numerous photos and videos. Every corner revealed a new spectacle – a vibrant avian display, a fleeting glimpse of a shy deer, joyous and naughty langurs, crocodiles, Sambhar, gaurs, or the rustle of foliage signalling the presence of unseen creatures. Each sighting was a testament to the resplendent biodiversity of Tadoba. But yes, we were disappointed a bit for not sighting the big wild cat, the ferocious tiger in Tadoba.

Sloth Bear at Tadoba National Park

Deer at Tadoba National Park

Jeep Safari at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Bird-watching in Tadoba

For avian enthusiasts, Tadoba is a veritable paradise. Over 195 species of birds call this reserve home, from majestic raptors soaring overhead to delicate songbirds hidden amidst the foliage. The call of the Malabar pied hornbill echoes through the forest, while the vibrant plumage of the Indian roller adds a splash of colour to the landscape. As we meander along the tranquil water bodies, the sight of painted storks, peacocks, eagles and Asian open bills wading through the shallows leaves us spellbound, a testament to the diverse avifauna of Tadoba.

Crested Serpent Eagle at Tadoba

How to reach Tadoba Tiger Reserve

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is just 150 km away from Nagpur and can be reached by road in two and a half hours. Nagpur is the closest major city which is well connected by road, rail and air. Most of the major airlines from various metros land in Nagpur. The taxis are easily available from the airport and the railway station or you can request the resort for transfers at an additional cost.

The best time to Visit Tadoba

Tadoba Tiger Reserve is open from October to June. The best time to visit the forest is from October to March as it gets warmer after March. The summers are scorching hot. The Park is closed during monsoon i.e. from June to October.

Thick Forest Safari at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Crocodile at Tadoba National Park

Tips for travellers visiting Tadoba

1. Book your safaris well in advance. You can book it at https://booking.mytadoba.org/.

2. We stayed at http://www.vasundhararetreat.com/  a perfect quaint stay located just 50 mts away from the main gate of Tiger Reserve.

3. Carry Adhaar Cards or any other Government Identity cards.

4. Mobile phones are not allowed inside the forest. The jeep driver/ guide keeps them in safe deposit with them in the jeep itself.

5. Cameras are allowed inside the forest.

6. Usually, guides have binoculars, if you still want to carry them, you may.

7. Plastic is strictly prohibited inside the jungle. The safari jeep carries steel bottles filled with drinking water.

8. There are washrooms available inside the forest and safaris take a break at the designated points.

9. Wear light cotton and dark-coloured comfortable clothes. Do not wear flashy colours.

10. Do not make noise in the jungle.

11. If you are visiting during winter, make sure you carry woollens and a cap. During summers a cap is a must.

12. DO NOT LITTER

Patience is key – wildlife sightings are unpredictable, and perseverance often yields the most rewarding encounters. Respect for the environment and its inhabitants is paramount, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate ecosystems. Lastly, immerse yourself fully in the experience – let go of distractions and embrace the untamed beauty of Tadoba.

As our journey through Tadoba draws to a close, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness the splendour of its biodiversity. But for the majestic tigers, the delicate wildflowers and each inhabitant of Tadoba has left an indelible mark on my soul.

Ghost Tree at Tadoba National Park

Langur at Tadoba Andhari National Park

Jeep Safari at Tadoba