Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, is one of India’s most significant tiger habitats. It forms the “Andhari” part of the renowned Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) and is among the oldest protected forest zones in the state.
Named after the Andhari River that flows through dense teak and bamboo forests, the sanctuary offers classic Central Indian forest landscapes—rocky hills, meadows, bamboo thickets, riverine belts, and deep valleys where wildlife thrives undisturbed.
Key Wildlife of Andhari
The sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot, home to both apex predators and rich prey species.
Mammals
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Bengal Tiger (flagship species)
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Indian Leopard
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Sloth Bear
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Dhole (Indian Wild Dog)
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Sambar
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Chital
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Barking Deer
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Gaur
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Wild Boar
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Jungle Cat
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Civets
Birds
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Crested Serpent Eagle
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Paradise Flycatcher
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Grey Junglefowl
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Painted Stork
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Honey Buzzard
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Peafowl
Reptiles
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Marsh Crocodile
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Indian Python
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Monitor Lizard
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Cobra, Krait, Rat Snake
Flora
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Dense Teak forests
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Bamboo groves
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Tendu, Salai, Mohua, Bija
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Riverine vegetation along Andhari river
Best Time to Visit
October to May
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Winter (Nov–Feb): Best for wildlife & photography
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Summer (March–May): High tiger visibility near water sources
The sanctuary remains closed during the rainy season (July–September).
How to Reach Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest City:
Chandrapur (30 km)
By Air:
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Nagpur Airport – 140 km (closest major airport)
By Rail:
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Chandrapur Railway Station – 30 km
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Nagpur Railway Station – 140 km
By Road:
Well connected from Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, and Hyderabad via NH-44 and NH-353.
Safari Information
Since Andhari is a part of Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve, entry is through designated safari gates:
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Moharli Gate
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Kolara Gate
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Pangdi Gate
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Navegaon Gate
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Khutwanda Gate
Both jeep safaris and canter safaris are available on pre-booking through official forest portals.
Nearby Attractions
1. Tadoba Lake (Inside TATR)
A scenic lake known for crocodiles, migratory birds, and frequent tiger movement.
2. Erai Dam (30 km)
Beautiful viewpoint and birding area near Chandrapur.
3. Chandrapur City (30 km)
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Mahakali Temple
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Anchaleshwar Mandir
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Local markets
4. Agarzari and Devada Buffer Zones
Famous for tiger and sloth bear sightings.
Conservation Importance
Andhari Sanctuary is a pillar of tiger conservation in India.
Its importance is rooted in:
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Being a core habitat of the Tadoba tiger population
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Maintaining central Indian wildlife corridors
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Protecting dense teak and bamboo forests
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Conserving species like dholes, sloth bears, and gaurs
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Supporting ecological research and sustainable eco-tourism
It plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s national tiger recovery success story.
FAQ – Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Is Andhari part of Tadoba?
Yes. Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary and Tadoba National Park together form Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve.
2. Which animal is most famous here?
The Bengal Tiger, with one of the highest densities in India.
3. Are safaris open all year?
No. Safaris usually close during monsoon months.
4. Which gate is best for sightings?
Moharli, Kolara, and Navegaon gates are known for excellent sightings.
5. What type of forest is Andhari?
Dry deciduous forest dominated by teak and bamboo.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Tadoba safe for tourists?
Yes, with strict forest rules and regulated safari zones.
How many tigers are there in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve?
The reserve supports one of the highest tiger densities in Maharashtra.
Which airport is closest to Andhari Sanctuary?
Nagpur Airport, around 140 km away.
What is the best month for tiger sightings?
March to May, when animals gather around water bodies.
Conclusion
Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure of Maharashtra’s wilderness—dense forests, abundant wildlife, serene landscapes, and some of the country’s best tiger encounters. As the backbone of the Tadoba tiger ecosystem, it offers a raw, thrilling, and unforgettable forest experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.
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