Located in Gadchiroli district of eastern Maharashtra, Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene and lesser-known forest destination along the Pranhita River, a major tributary of the Godavari. Spread across 134 sq km, the sanctuary is a vital link in the central Indian tiger landscape and hosts an impressive diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles, and riverine species.
The untouched wilderness, riverfront landscapes, and rich wildlife make Chaprala ideal for nature lovers seeking offbeat forest experiences away from crowded reserves.
Wildlife of Chaprala
Mammals
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Bengal Tiger
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Leopard
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Sloth Bear
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Wild Dog (Dhole)
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Gaur
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Sambar
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Chital
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Nilgai
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Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha)
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Wild Boar
Birdlife
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Indian Pitta
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Golden Oriole
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Jungle Babbler
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Peafowl
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Black Drongo
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Racket-tailed Drongo
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Waterbirds along Pranhita River
Reptiles
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Monitor Lizard
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Russell’s Viper
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Cobra
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Kraits
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Freshwater turtles
Flora
Dry deciduous woodlands featuring:
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Teak
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Tendu
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Mahua
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Bamboo
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Bija
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Jamun
Conservation Importance
Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary plays a critical ecological role:
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Acts as a wildlife corridor connecting forests of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh.
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Protects vulnerable species like tiger, sloth bear, dhole, and four-horned antelope.
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Preserves the riverine ecosystem of the Pranhita River.
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Safeguards dry deciduous forest biodiversity typical to central India.
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Supports regional conservation through Project Tiger connectivity.
Best Time to Visit
November to March – Pleasant weather and increased wildlife movement.
April–May – Hot but excellent for spotting tigers and gaurs near water sources.
How to Reach Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Town:
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Gadchiroli – 50 km
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Ballarpur – 80 km
By Air:
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Nagpur Airport – 220 km
By Rail:
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Ballarpur Railway Station – 82 km
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Chandrapur Railway Station – 95 km
By Road:
Accessible via Chandrapur → Ballarpur → Chaprala route.
Safari & Entry Information
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Jeep safaris are available in designated forest routes.
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Riverfront zones offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
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Morning and evening safaris are recommended for sightings.
(Note: Fees vary seasonally; check with the local forest range office.)
Nearby Attractions
1. Pranhita River
Great for riverine birdlife and scenic views.
2. Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve – 90 km
Maharashtra’s most famous tiger reserve.
3. Chaprala Temple
A peaceful spiritual site near the sanctuary.
4. Chandrapur City – 95 km
Historic forts and wildlife research centers.
5. Indravati Tiger Reserve (Chhattisgarh) – 110 km
One of central India's largest forest blocks.
FAQ – Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Where is Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary located?
In Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, near the Pranhita River.
2. Which animals are found here?
Tigers, leopards, gaurs, sambar, chital, wild dogs, and sloth bears.
3. Is safari available at Chaprala?
Yes, guided jeep safaris operate in marked zones.
4. What is the best time to visit?
November to March for comfortable weather.
5. Is Chaprala part of any tiger conservation landscape?
Yes, it forms a corridor between Tadoba, Indravati, and Telangana forests.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Chaprala a tiger reserve?
No, but it is part of a major tiger corridor and supports a stable tiger population.
Is Chaprala safe for visitors?
Yes, entry is regulated and accompanied by forest staff where required.
Which river flows through the sanctuary?
The Pranhita River, a major tributary of the Godavari.
How big is Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
Approximately 134 sq km.
Conclusion
Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Maharashtra’s most underrated wildlife destinations—rich in biodiversity, peaceful, and scenically blessed by the Pranhita River. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, birder, or nature traveler seeking quiet forest experiences, Chaprala offers a refreshing escape into the lesser-explored wilderness of Gadchiroli.
A perfect offbeat alternative to crowded tiger reserves, Chaprala is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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