Date: 16th March -19th March 2024
Distance covered: Raipur to Nagzira by road, 200.8 kms
Time taken: 5 hours approx.
Budget: Rs. 30,000 approx. for 3 days ( including accommodation, food, safari and travel, stay and food for the driver at the resort)
Stay Recommendations: Muba Jungle Resort (Pithezari gate). Risada Jungle resort (Chorkhamara gate)
Getting to Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
By Air -The nearest airport is in Nagpur, Maharashtra. From there, you can reach Nagzira by road.
By Train -The closest railway station is Tirora, just 15 km away. Nagzira is located between Gondia and Bhandara stations on the Mumbai-Howrah main line.
By Road Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is 22 km from Sakoli on National Highway No. 6 (Mumbai-Calcutta route). It is about 60 km from both Gondia and Bhandara district headquarters. The nearest bus stands are in Sakoli and Tirora. The Pithezari Gate is 10 km from Sakoli, while the Chorkhamara Gate is 20 km from Tirora. We travelled from Raipur to Nagzira which was around 200 kms.
Additional Train Information
Gondia: 50 km
Bhandara Road: 50 km
Soundad: 20 km
Tirora: 20 km
Nagzira comprises of two areas: new Nagzira and old Nagzira. Old Nagzira has three gates: Pitezari, Chorkhamara and Mangezari. New Nagzira can be accessed through Chorkhamara and Umarzari gates.
Things to remember: before visiting the tiger reserve
1. Research the ideal time to visit and familiarize yourself with the area.
2. Choose an accommodation that is close the sanctuary gates. This will help you reach the gates quickly for the morning safaris.
3. Plan and book your safaris in advance. Safaris can be reserve online or through your lodging facility.
Check out the official website for more details: https://www.nagzirawildlifesanctuary.com/
4. Stick the wildlife etiquette. Dress in colours that blends with the natural surroundings. Maintain minimal noise level to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
5. Pack essentials such as comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, hat, sunscreen and a light waterproof jacket. Carry woollens depending season you are travelling.
6. Try not to leave excessive garbage during your visit.
7. Keep cash handy for any unforeseen expenses or purchases.
8. You may face connectivity issues with Airtel and other network providers. Jio has a more reliable coverage in Nagzira.
Join me on a wildlife adventure into the depths of nature at Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary. This hidden treasure tucked away in the heart of Maharashtra awaits your discovery. We went on an unforgettable two-day trip. We were welcomed by the lush green surroundings. It was the signal to the start of our wilderness adventure.
We started our journey from Raipur and 5 hours later we arrived at Nawegaon, Nagzira. We wasted no time in checking-in and grabbing a quick lunch. Post lunch, we hopped on to our first afternoon safari at the Chorkhamara gate. Our first safari was from gate number 2 and soon it turned into a wildlife spectacle.
Note: Gate number 2 is newly opened and sees less traffic. You will find lesser vehicles and better chances of spotting wildlife in their natural elements.
As we went deeper into the forest, nature revealed its treasures. Nagzira offers encounters with numerous species, each contributing to the delicate ecosystem. We spotted many powerful bison, Chital, sambars, and the always playful langurs. While we managed to click some, others we just enjoyed watching it live in their habitat. Go prepared with your cameras and capture the raw beauty of Nagzira.
As we went deeper into the forest, nature revealed its treasures. Nagzira offers encounters with numerous species, each contributing to the delicate ecosystem. We spotted many powerful bison, Chital, sambars, and the always playful langurs. While we managed to click some, others we just enjoyed watching it live in their habitat. Go prepared with your cameras and capture the raw beauty of Nagzira.
Tip: There is a camera fee for only professional cameras to be paid at the gate. Mobile photography is free of cost.
As the sun began to set on our first safari, we felt a little disappointed at not being able to catch a glimpse of any of the big cats. As the golden hour approached, our safari transformed into a wildlife spectacle. Just when we thought all was lost, deep in the heart of the forest, we stumbled upon something hidden among the dry leaves, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
Unfazed and radiant, a magnificent leopard sat calmly, observing us from afar. Why would it be bothered to move? After all, we were the intruders in its territory, not the other way around! The leopard lingered for a while, marking its presence, before gracefully deciding to take an evening stroll. We followed It for a bit before it disappeared into the covers of green.
As we headed back to our resort, we greeted many Dhols or wild dogs and wild boars crossing the road. They too were probably returning to their homes. With nightfall the resort came alive with the sounds of nature. We ended our day with a hearty dinner.
The second day began with anticipation of fresh experiences. Opting for a more leisurely start, we forego the morning safari and instead choose to explore the sanctuary's nature trails on foot. Nagzira is a birdwatcher’s delight and you spot many varieties, adding on to its charm.
In the afternoon, we returned to Chorkhamara gate, ready for another adventure. This time from gate number 1. We were accompanied by an experienced guide who enhanced our safari with valuable insights.
As we entered the area, word had already spread about a tiger and her cubs nearby. Other safari vehicles had gathered, creating a buzz of excitement. Crowds gathered along a narrow path leading to a pond, where the anticipation was palpable. The scent of decaying sambar lingered in the air as we waited anxiously. After 15 minutes, movement caught our attention near the pond. Suddenly, a large creature emerged, climbing up the nearby hillside. We watched in awe as the tiger played with her cubs, their tails wagging joyfully.
Feeling a bit disheartened that the action was unfolding too far for our cameras to capture, our guide shared a valuable insight: "Yeh nazara aakhon se dekho, camera se nahi." It was a profound reminder that sometimes the most unforgettable moments are best experienced directly, summing up our incredible journey at Nagzira perfectly.
I hope this article was helpful and inspires you to plan a jungle getaway to Nagzira soon!
Happy Journey!
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