Maharashtra state has numerous national parks that work as a means of preserving rich biodiversity. In these parks, wildlife feel safe and it has become their home. These places are made in such a way that tourists can come here and enjoy the rich wildlife and nature. Now, we are going to discuss the 6 national parks of the MH state. Stay with us.
National Parks in Maharashtra
The table below provides you with an overview of national parks.
| Name | Total Area | Location | Foundation Year | Notable Wildlife |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve | 625.4 sq KM | Chandrapur district | In 1955 | Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, wild dogs |
| Gugamal National Park | 1,673.93 sq KM | Amravati Chandrapur district | In 1974 | Tigers, leopards, Indian bison, various deer species |
| Chandoli National Park | 317.67 sq KM | Sangli Chandrapur district | In 2004 | Indian giant squirrel, tigers, leopards, deer species |
| Pench National Park | 257 sq KM | Nagpur Chandrapur district | In 1975 | Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, various birds |
| Navegaon National Park | 133.88 sq KM | Gondia Chandrapur district | In 1975 | Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and various birds |
| Sanjay Gandhi National Park | 87 sq KM | Mumbai Chandrapur district | In 1969 | Leopards, deer species, various birds, reptiles |
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
- Location & Size: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is spread over 625.4 sq. km in the Chandrapur district.
- Founded, Maharashtra’s largest and oldest national park 1955.
- Wildlife: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is Famous for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur), wild dogs, sambar deer, and chital. The forest has teak and bamboo trees.
- Main Attractions: You should visit Tadoba Lake (home to marsh crocodiles and water birds) and jungle safaris.
Gugamal National Park
- Location & Size: Gugamal National Park is spread over 1,673.93 sq. km in the Amravati district.
- Founded: Gugamal National Park became part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve on February 22, 1974.
- Wildlife: Gugamal National Park Hosts tigers, leopards, Indian bison, sambar deer, and more. The forest consists of tropical dry deciduous trees.
- Main Attractions: You should visit A rugged, forested landscape ideal for wildlife lovers and researchers at Gugamal National Park.
Chandoli National Park
- Location & Size: Chandoli National Park is spread over 317.67 sq. km in the Sangli district.
- Founded: Chandoli National Park was first a wildlife sanctuary in 1985, then became a national park in 2004.
- Wildlife: Chandoli National Park is Home to the endangered Indian giant squirrel, tigers, leopards, and deer. The forest includes moist deciduous trees like teak and bamboo.
- Main Attractions: You should visit Chandoli National Park for the Beautiful hills, valleys, and the Chandoli Dam adds to its charm.
Pench National Park
- Location & Size: Pench National Park is spread over 257 sq. km in the Nagpur district.
- Founded: Pench National Park was declared a national park in 1975 and included in the 25th Tiger Project in 1999.
- Wildlife: Pench National Park is a Shelter for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and many birds. Teak trees dominate the deciduous forest.
- Main Attractions: You should visit the Pench River runs through the park, inspiring The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling at Pench National Park.
Navegaon National Park
- Location & Size: Navegaon National Park is spread over 133.88 sq. km in the Gondia district.
- Founded: Navegaon National Park was recognized as a national park in 1975.
- Wildlife: Navegaon National Park hosts nearly 60% of Maharashtra’s bird species, along with tigers, leopards, and deer. The forest has dry mixed and moist deciduous trees.
- Main Attractions: You should visit Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (great for bird watchers), Navegaon Dam, and jungle safaris at Navegaon National Park.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Location & Size: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is spread over 87 sq. km in Mumbai.
- Founded: Sanjay Gandhi National Park was declared a national park in 1969.
- Wildlife: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is Home to leopards, spotted deer, black-naped hares, and various birds. The forest has teak, bamboo, and flowering plants.
- Main Attractions: You should visit Kanheri Caves (ancient Buddhist rock-cut sculptures), nature trails, a toy train, and lion and tiger safaris at Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
Last Words
National parks of the MH state are built for wildlife conservation and to promote eco-tourism. In these national parks there are many rare and endangered species that are living freely. These parks welcome tourists to explore the wildlife. And these parks also provide all the facilities to the tourists if they are planning trips and tours here.