Melghat Tiger Reserve, located in Maharashtra's Satpura Hill Range, spans 1,676 square kilometers and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Established in 1973 under Project Tiger, the reserve features tropical dry deciduous forests dominated by teak. It is home to the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, Indian gaur, and over 250 bird species, including the endangered forest owlet. The rugged, hilly terrain and the Tapti River enhance its ecological significance. Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration and anti-poaching measures, involving local communities in sustainable practices. Popular tourist activities include wildlife safaris, bird watching, and nature trails.
Maharashtra, West India
Gypsy / Jeep
Badnera Junction, Nagpur
Morning, Evening
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport
Tigers, Sloth Bears, Leopards, Gaur
4,000 - 6,000 Average Safari Price *
July, August, September
4,000 - 6,000 Average Safari Price
Safari Price depends on operators and services and may exceed the average price shown
Currently Closed
Core Zone Open
Buffer Zone Open
Melghat Tiger Reserve, nestled in Maharashtra, India, spans over 1,676 square kilometers of varied terrain, including dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and rivers. Established to safeguard its rich biodiversity, the reserve is renowned for hosting a thriving population of Bengal tigers alongside leopards, Indian wild dogs (dholes), sloth bears, and a diversity of herbivores such as gaur and various deer species.
The reserve's strategic location in the Satpura Range contributes to its ecological significance, supporting over 250 bird species, including the endangered forest owlet. Melghat's landscape not only sustains a multitude of flora and fauna but also serves as a vital watershed area for several rivers and streams that flow through the region.
Conservation efforts at Melghat Tiger Reserve are comprehensive, focusing on habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement. These initiatives aim to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and promote sustainable practices among local communities, fostering a harmonious coexistence between wildlife and human populations.
Challenges persist, however, including habitat fragmentation, illegal activities such as poaching, and the need for enhanced conservation infrastructure and resources. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen these aspects, expand protected areas, and involve stakeholders in sustainable development practices that benefit both wildlife conservation and local livelihoods.
Melghat Tiger Reserve stands as a beacon of biodiversity conservation in Maharashtra, playing a pivotal role in the region's ecological balance and offering opportunities for research, education, and eco-tourism. As conservation efforts evolve and grow, Melghat continues to be a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats and protecting endangered species for future generations.
The vegetation of Melghat Tiger Reserve includes a mix of teak, bamboo, ain, dhawada, and other deciduous trees. The forests here provide habitat and sustenance to a wide range of wildlife, from large mammals to smaller herbivores and birds.
Melghat is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers, which are the apex predators of the region. Other carnivores include leopards, Indian wild dogs (dholes), sloth bears, and jungle cats. The reserve also supports a variety of herbivores such as Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, spotted deer, and barking deer. Avian diversity is equally impressive, with over 250 species recorded, including the rare and endangered forest owlet.
Train- Badnera (Amravati) is the nearest rail station. Many trains are available from Ahmedabad, Mumbai and few other cities to reach Badnera. Otherwise, you can take a direct train to Nagpur, from where you can reach the reserve via road. Air- Akot is the nearest airport from the park and is about 160 kilometers away. Another nearby airport is in Nagpur which is 260 kilometers away from the park. Road- The reserve is approx 25 kilometers away to the nearest connected road, Chikhaldara. This road is inter-connected to various towns and cities. There are many buses available to travel starting from Nagpur, Amravati and other cities connected via Chikhaldara.