Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most significant and well-developed wildlife sanctuaries for tourism in the Nagpur district of Maharashtra, India. Spanning 191 square kilometres, this sanctuary is home to diverse species, including tigers, leopards, and various birds. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the region’s biological and cultural richness, making it a prime destination for ecological tourism. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant flora and fauna, Umred Karhandla is perfect for those seeking to rejuvenate in nature and explore the area with the help of elephants.
Location Of Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
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Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the Nagpur district of Maharashtra, around 40 km away from Nagpur city. Lying in Eastern Maharashtra, this sanctuary has ready access to many natural attractions in and around the sanctuary. It is well-known for being a habitat of tigers, particularly the famous tiger named “Jai”, whose sightings have drawn many visitors. Apart from tigers, the sanctuary is home to various species like leopards, wild dogs, and several bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
How To Reach Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Road: The sanctuary is well connected by road transport, with regular buses and private taxis available from Nagpur. The trip takes about one hour, making it very suitable for day excursions.
By Rail: The nearest railway is Nagpur railway station, which is easily reached from here and connected to other cities in India. A taxi or bus can be hired from the station to get to the sanctuary.
By Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which is approximately 45 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the sanctuary.
Places To Visit In And Around Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
Here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in and around Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary to make your trip a memorable one:
1. Khekranala Dam
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Khekranala Dam is another divine reservoir that retains natural beauty and scenic hills, including lush green plantations. It also provides an excellent site for a picnic, photography, and leisurely strolling. There are opportunities for boating, thus making the visitors gain some feeling of being surrounded by nature. The vicinity is highly biodiverse and providential for bird watching. Due to the availability of ample space, families and friends can go out for a picnic with a view of natural sceneries. Many people consider it as a place to relax, mainly when they go there during the weekend.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Bor Wildlife Sanctuary
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Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the route between Nagpur and Wardha and is emerging as a pleasant tourist spot near the Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to tigers, leopards, and multiple subspecies of deer and Spanning over 61 sq km of land. The sanctuary, having an area of approximately 61 square kilometres, has numerous habitats like tigers, leopards besides many varieties of deer. The sanctuary’s dry and deciduous terrain acts as a perfect hunting ground for wild animals and birds.
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: weekdays: INR 440 (with vehicle); INR 180 (without vehicle), weekends: INR 480 (with vehicle); INR 190 (without vehicle)
3. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
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In the Bhandara district, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for bird watching and exploring other wildlife. These are found over an area of 153 square kilometres and are characterised by forests and hilly tracts. The sanctuary shelters leopards, gaurs, sambar deer, other animals, and birds, making it a perfect place for watching wild animals near the Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary. Nature trails are within the sanctuary, enabling people to feel closer to nature and enjoy their surroundings. This makes Nagzira an ideal place for those searching for loneliness and a remarkable experience of wildlife.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: INR 20 (for adults); INR 10 (for children below 12 yrs), INR 50 (per vehicle)
4. Deekshabhoomi
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Deekshabhoomi is Nagpur’s cultural and historical site dedicated to the builder of India’s constitution, Dr B.R Ambedkar. It comprises a magnificent stupa as a symbol of the symbol of the re-established Buddhism in India. The site is attractive to people interested in history, spirituality and architecture and provides an atmosphere for reflection. Deekshabhoomi is a holy place for many and contains wonderful artworks and inscriptions depicting the life of Dr Ambedkar and his work. It is perhaps the best place to visit and to learn about the social-cultural diversity of India.
Timings: 12 AM – 12 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Ramtek Fort
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Ramtek Fort, perched atop a hill in the Nagpur district, is an ancient structure rich in history and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort dates back to the 10th century and is believed to have been built by the Kalachuri dynasty. Visitors can explore its ancient ruins, temples, and the scenic beauty of the area, making it a popular trekking destination. The fort is also linked to various legends, adding a mystical element to its historical significance. Its serene environment makes it an ideal spot for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
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Accommodation options near Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary cater to a variety of preferences, ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. Some popular choices include Karma Wilderness, Hotel Umred, and Wildlife Resort, offering comfortable stays with convenient access to the sanctuary. It’s important to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a more upscale experience, the area provides a range of lodging that allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to June. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it ideal for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. The sanctuary is typically closed during the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rains. During these months, the sanctuary offers optimal opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat, as they are more likely to be visible near water sources. To enhance your experience, plan your visit during the cooler months when both the wildlife and landscape are at their best.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip:
A weekend trip to Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary can cost around INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per person, including travel, accommodation, and meals. The cost may vary depending on the type of accommodation and transportation chosen. Opting for guided safaris or additional activities could increase the overall expense. Planning in advance and booking during off-peak times might help reduce costs.
Tips For Travellers:
- Carry enough water and snacks during your visit, as facilities may be limited within the sanctuary.
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for trekking and wildlife spotting.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals during your visit.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture distant wildlife without disturbing them.
- Avoid wearing bright colours, as muted tones help blend into the natural environment.
- Follow all sanctuary rules and regulations, and avoid making loud noises to not startle the animals.
Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its diverse flora and fauna, it offers safaris, trekking, birdwatching and a unique experience for those looking to connect with nature. Plan your next trip with TripXL and explore the wonders of Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, creating unforgettable and pleasing memories along the way.
Cover Photo: Bobwca2017 / Wikimedia Commons