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Chandoli National Park, a hidden gеm for nature lovers and wildlifе еnthusiasts, is nеstlеd in thе Sahyadri mountain rangе of Maharashtra. Establishеd in 2004, this national park covеrs an arеa of approximately 317 squarе kilomеtrеs. It is part of thе Wеstеrn Ghats and a UNESCO World Hеritagе Sitе. Thе park is rеnownеd for its rich biodivеrsity and including various flora and fauna, many of which arе endemic to thе rеgion. Visitors can explore scenic landscapеs and lush forests and sеrеnе waterfalls making it an idеal dеstination for trеkking, birdwatching and photography. With its uniquе еcosystеm and tranquil surroundings, Chandoli National Park promisеs an unforgettable еxpеriеncе for all who venture into its depths.
Location
Photo: Anjumandeodhar / Wikimedia Commons
Chandoli National Park is located in thе Sangli district of Maharashtra and approximately 20 kilomеtrеs from Tasgaon. Thе park is surroundеd by thе picturеsquе Sahyadri mountain range, offering breathtaking views and divеrsе еcosystеms. Chandoli National Park is an intеgral part of the Chandoli Wildlifе Sanctuary, which also includеs thе Koyna Wildlifе Sanctuary and contributes to thе conservation of various еndangered species and thеir habitats.
How To Reach
Photo: Trinidade / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Chandoli National Park either through air, rail or road:
By Air: Thе nеarеst airport to Chandoli National Park is thе Kolhapur Airport, approximately 80 kilomеtrеs away. This airport connеcts with major cities like Mumbai and Punе. Visitors from thе airport can hirе a taxi or ridе sharing sеrvicеs to rеach thе park. Thе drivе takеs about 2 to 3 hours and offers a glimpsе of thе bеautiful landscapеs.
By Train: Karad is located about 35 kilomеtrеs from thе park and is thе nеarеst railway station. It is wеll connеctеd to major citiеs likе Mumbai Punе and Kolhapur. From Karad Railway Station, visitors can hirе taxis or takе local busеs to rеach Chandoli National Park, making it a convenient option for travеllеrs.
By Road: Chandoli National Park is accessible by road from various towns and cities in Maharashtra. National Highway 48 (NH 48) connеcts thе park to significant cities like Punе and Kolhapur: Busеs and taxis and private vеhiclеs arе availablе for transportation. Thе drivе through thе scеnic Wеstеrn Ghats providеs a dеlightful еxpеriеncе, еspеcially for naturе еnthusiasts.
Places To Visit In And Around Chandoli National Park
Here are some exciting places to explore while after exploring Chandoli Maharashtra national park activities:
1. Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Bangal Priti / Wikimedia Commons
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, adjacent to Chandoli National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This sanctuary covers over 400 square kilometres and is home to wildlife, including leopards, gaurs, and numerous bird species. Visitors can embark on guided treks and safari tours to explore the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna. The picturesque Koyna Dam and its backwaters provide a serene backdrop, perfect for photography and nature walks.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
2. Chandoli Dam
Photo: सुबोध कुलकर्णी / Wikimedia Commons
Chandoli Dam, located within the national park, is an impressive engineering marvel surrounded by lush greenery. The dam offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountains and is an excellent spot for picnics and leisurely walks. The reservoir formed by the dam attracts various bird species, making it a popular site for birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing activities, adding fun to their trip. The serene environment is ideal for relaxing and soaking in nature’s beauty.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Pavas Fort
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Pavas Fort, situated about 15 kilometres from Chandoli National Park, is a historical site that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The fort dates back to the Maratha Empire and features remnants of ancient architecture. The trek to the fort is scenic and rewarding, with opportunities to explore the region’s rich history. The cool breeze and lush greenery surrounding the fort create a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
4. Lingmala Waterfall
Photo: Udaym 1985 / Wikimedia Commons
Lingmala Waterfall, located near Mahabaleshwar, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Western Ghats. About 60 kilometres from Chandoli National Park, the waterfall cascades down a height of 600 feet, creating a mesmerising sight. The trek to the waterfall is an adventurous journey through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the waterfall is in full flow, creating a picturesque scene.
Timings: 7 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
5. Mahabaleshwar
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Mahabaleshwar, a popular hill station about 65 kilometres from Chandoli National Park, is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. The hill station is famous for its viewpoints, strawberry farms, and lush landscapes. Visitors can explore attractions like Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, and Vienna Lake, making it an excellent getaway for families and couples. The cool weather and serene surroundings make Mahabaleshwar a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visitors to Chandoli National Park can find various accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to comfortable resorts. Chandoli Eco Resort is famous for offering eco-friendly lodging and stunning park views. For a more luxurious experience, Koyna Lake Resort provides comfortable amenities along with scenic surroundings. Budget travellers can opt for Hotel Vishnupriya, which offers clean and affordable lodging. Staying near the park allows easy access to attractions and enhances the overall experience of exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Where To Eat
Photo: Aditya Mara / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
When visiting Chandoli National Park, you can enjoy various dining options in and around the area. Hotel Koyna is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Maharashtrian cuisine, offering delicious thalis and local dishes made from fresh ingredients. Shivaji Hotel is another excellent option, known for its hearty meals and warm hospitality. Local eateries near the park provide tasty options for those seeking quick snacks and beverages to satisfy their cravings after a day of exploration. The dining experiences in this region allow visitors to savour the local flavours while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Jason Boyd / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Chandoli National Park is during the winter months (November to February). The weather is pleasant and calm, which is ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) also offers a unique experience, with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls, but heavy rains may hinder some activities. Chandoli National Park timings are from 9 AM to 9 PM.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Chandoli National Park typically ranges between ₹2,500 and ₹5,000 per person, depending on your travel style and preferences. This estimate includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and attraction entry fees. Accommodation prices can vary, with budget hotels starting at around ₹1,000 per night, while mid-range options may cost between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000. Meals at local restaurants can cost between ₹300 and ₹700 per person. Planning your expenses in advance can help ensure a memorable experience without overspending.
Tips For Travellers
- Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike.
- Start your day early to maximise your time exploring the park and its attractions.
- Carry cash, as some local eateries and transport options may not accept cards.
- Respect wildlife and nature by not littering and maintaining a safe distance from animals.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters for Chandoli National Park photos .
- During your visit, engage with local guides for a more informative and enriching experience.
Chandoli National Park offers a unique blend of nature, biodiversity, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. With its picturesque landscapes, rich wildlife, and nearby attractions, visitors can immerse themselves in the surroundings and enjoy a memorable getaway. Plan your visit and discover the wonders of Chandoli National Park! For a seamless travel experience, book your trip with TripXL, your trusted travel companion for unforgettable adventures.
Cover Photo: Atharvk9 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
