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Location:
45-km From Chandrapur And 100 Kms From Nagpur
Referred To: The Jewel Of Vidarbha
Area: 120-sq-km
Significance: Oldest National Park
Tadoba National Park is a
compact 120-sq-km park, perched at an altitude of 200m and is placed
100-km south of Nagpur and 45-km north of the district headquarter and
industrial town of Chandrapur. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Tadoba
is also referred to as 'The Jewel of Vidarbha'.
The oldest National Park
in the state of Maharashtra, it is also a Project Tiger reserve, since
1993. The area around Tadoba was once highly populated by the Gond
tribals. It derives its name from their local deity 'Taru', who,
according to a legend, was killed in an epic fight with a tiger. He is
still worshipped by the local villagers as the deity of 'Tadoba'.Flora
The rich deciduous forest
mainly consists of teak trees, others being Bamboo, Gardenia, Satinwood,
Mahua and Jamun. The other tree species found within the protected area
are Ain, Arjun, Behada, Bija, Bhera, Bor, Bel, Chichwa, Dhawada, Kusum,
Mowai, Phetra, Rohan, Salai, Semal, Shisham, Sisoo, Shivan, Surya, Sirus,
Tendu, etc.
Fauna
Although the major
attraction is the Tiger, large herds of Chital, the stately Sambar, the
elusive Barking Deer, the fleet footed Chausinga, the majestic Gaur, the
robust Nilgai, the shy Sloth Bear, the whistling Wild Dogs, the
omnipresent Wild Boar, and the stealthy Leopard make lasting impressions
on the visitors to this Reserve.
As the night falls the
Small Indian Civet, the Palm Civet, the Ratel, the Flying squirrel make
their presence felt. The lake attracts many water birds like Cattle
Egrets, Purple Moorhens and Jacanas. It also has marsh crocodiles at the
breeding farm.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Tadoba National Park is a
large park featuring mixed teak forests and a lake, with night viewing
available to see its large wildlife populations. Situated in the heart
of Tadoba National Park is a 120-hectare water body, called Tadoba Lake.
A motorable road runs
along the perimeter of the lake along which a leisurely stroll can
provide excellent wildlife viewing. Two watch towers have also been
erected for observing wildlife. There are minibuses that take you
around, and the best time to visit is in the evening.
On the shore of Tadoba
lake, is a shrine underneath the canopy of a large tree that is held in
high regard by the Gond Tribals. A well-attended fair is held here
annually, between December and January ("Pushya Maasa").
A trek up the gentle
slope of the small hillock called 'Jamunbudi' leads to the lush meadow
at the top. Full of enchanting jungle trails, experienced trekkers are
available to guide tourists along them. A walk to Panchdhara (5-km),
with an exclusive water hole, is also recommended. Also worth a walk is
Jamunbadi (5-km), with grasslands and thick jungles intermingling,
providing one with just the right touch of nature at its best.
There are four "Machaans"
where animals are sighted, especially at dusk. These are located near
the Panchdhara waterhole, Vasant Bhandara waterhole and two around the
lake.
FOR MORE TOURIST
INFORMATION
Best time to Visit: For
better and bearable climatic conditions the best time to visit the park
is between the cooler months. Of November and June, just before the
onset of monsoon the rest house of the forest department is an
enchanting little place, reservation for which could be done at the
District Forest Office, Chandrapur. A visitor could book himself on a
Jungle Safari Tour, or could enjoy Elephant rides.
Timings: 6 a.m. to 11
a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Nearest airport is
Nagpur, 158-kms away from the park.
Rail : Nearest railhead is Chandrapur, 45-kms away from the park.
Road: The nearest town is Chandrapur. State-run and private transport
buses too, can take one to/from Nagpur.
WHERE TO STAY
There are three forest
rest houses around the lake, and reservations can be made through the
Divisional Forest Officer, West Chanda division, Mul Road, Chandrapur
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