Guide to Safari Booking & Reaching Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
By JAGAT [26-June-25] Located in the eastern region of Maharashtra, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is an off-the-beaten-path but amazing place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Covering an area of 152 sq. km in the districts of Bhandara and Gondia, this untouched haven is commonly referred to as the 'Green Oasis of Vidarbha.' It is an essential corridor in the Central Indian Tiger Landscape, connecting large reserves such as Pench and Kanha, and contributes significantly towards regional biodiversity conservation. What is most appealing about Nagzira is that it retains a raw, untapped beauty - dense clusters of bamboo, dry deciduous forests, glinting lakes, and serene forest paths. This natural preserve is inhabited by a very interesting variety of wildlife, including leopards, tigers, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, and a great diversity of reptiles and birds. Nagzira provides a peaceful refuge from tourist spots, making it a great weekend getaway or secluded tours. The ideal time to visit is from October to mid-June, when the park is open for safaris. Whether you are thinking of an adventure in the jungles or a serene retreat, Nagzira guarantees an experience that's rich, wild, and unforgettable.
How to Reach Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
Nagzira is easily accessible by virtue of its location near prominent towns and cities of Maharashtra. The following are the details of options for those thinking about how to travel to Nagzira:
By Air
The closest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which is about 126 km from the sanctuary. The airport is well-connected to all major cities in India. Upon arrival at Nagpur, one can take a private cab or taxi to reach the sanctuary in 2.5 - 3 hours.
By Train
Nagzira can be reached by rail from the two stations that are nearby: Gondia Junction (approximately 60 km) and Nagpur Railway Station (approximately 118 km). Gondia is relatively close for tourists who travel from eastern and southern parts, but Nagpur finds it easier to get connected with cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. From either station, tourists can use local taxis or buses to get to the sanctuary.
By Road
Nagzira boasts great road access from Nagpur, Gondia, Bhandara, and even Raipur in the state of Chhattisgarh. The most used route is from Nagpur through Bhandara and Sakoli, and that is a favorite among road travelers too. Those wanting a picturesque drive will love going through villages, agricultural lands, and forest sections. Private taxis, buses, or own cars can be easily hired from the nearest cities.
Nagzira Safari Booking Guide
When planning a wildlife getaway, understanding the safari booking process is crucial. The sanctuary offers both jeep safaris and canter safaris, depending on the number of visitors. Nagzira Jeep safaris are more popular among wildlife enthusiasts due to their smaller group size and flexibility in covering forest trails. Nagzira online safari booking is highly recommended to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during weekends and holidays. Online booking also enables you to select your desired gate, safari zone, and time slot in advance. The visitors need to submit valid proof of photo identification (like Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Voter ID) while booking and need to show it at the time of the safari. A maximum of 6 tourists can be accommodated in each jeep, excluding the guide and driver to be provided by the forest department. Safaris are done in two shifts: Morning (typically begins at sunrise) and Evening (at 3 PM).
Timings will vary slightly during the season, so the precise schedule can be inquired about while booking. Nagzira is approached primarily via Pitezari Gate and Chorkhamara Gate. Both gates access various safari zones, providing a different experience in terms of landscape and game sightings. Make sure you select your gate carefully when booking safaris on the Internet, as it may be impossible to switch gates at short notice. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is not as famous as some of the other tiger reserves but is no less an unforgettable wilderness experience. Its peaceful surroundings, varied wildlife, and fewer tourist crowds make it perfect for those who want to experience the natural world at a leisurely pace.
