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Maharashtra is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, making it home to some of the most spectacular national parks. These parks offer a unique chance to explore rich wildlife and directly experience nature’s beauty. Each place has its charm and attractiveness, from the beautiful tigers of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve to the lush greenery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Whether you’re a nature lover, wildlife fan, or adventure seeker, the best national parks in Maharashtra provide unique experiences that showcase the region’s natural wonders.
9 National Parks In Maharashtra
Maharashtra is rich in wildlife, with numerous national parks to explore. Here are the best national parks in Maharashtra that stand out for their unique landscapes and diverse flora and fauna:
1. Chandoli National Park
Photo: Atharvk9 / Wikimedia Commons
Chandoli National Park, located in the Sahyadri mountain range, covers an area of approximately 317 square kilometres. Established in 2004, it forms part of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. This park is a haven for wildlife, home to varied plants such as broadleaf and evergreen woods. Wildlife lovers can spot Indian bison, lions, wild boars, and numerous bird species. The park is notably recognised for its beautiful waterfalls and calm lakes, perfect for relaxing and exploring. Visitors can enjoy treks, nature walks, and birding activities amidst stunning scenery.
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Chandoli, Sangli district
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Panhala Fort, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Gugamal National Park
Photo: Ankitfunk / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Khandwa area of Madhya Pradesh, Gugamal National Park is one of the lesser-known national parks in Maharashtra, giving a unique desert experience. The park spans approximately 600 square kilometres, boasting thick woods, rolling hills, and beautiful rivers. It is a vital refuge for wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and spotted deer. Visitors can enjoy the calm of nature without the people, making it an ideal location for hiking and wildlife tours. Its peaceful scenery and rich flora make Gugamala a charming escape for nature fans.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearby Attractions: Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Mandav Fort
3. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
Photo: Asif N Khan / Wikimedia Commons
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is a famous national park in Maharashtra, famed for its many Bengal tigers. It covers over 623 square kilometres and includes varied ecosystems, including thick woods, open fields, and beautiful lakes. Along with tigers, tourists can spot leopards, Indian bison, wild boars, and over 285 bird species, making it a haven for wildlife lovers. The park is well-managed, with a network of trails and car tours for safe exploring. The park gives organised night tours for a unique experience. Tadoba is one of the national parks near Maharashtra.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Chandrapur district
Best Time To Visit: February to June
Nearby Attractions: Kolsa Lake, Tadoba Lake
4. Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Photo: Sobarwiki / Wikimedia Commons
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located on the outskirts of Mumbai, is a gem among the national parks in Maharashtra. Covering over 104 square kilometres, it is a green haven amidst the busy city. This park boasts various wildlife, including lions, deer, and over 250 bird species, making it an excellent location for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers. The park also features the famous Kanheri Caves, which date back to the 1st century BCE. The park is easily approachable, making it popular for day trips and weekend breaks.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Borivali, Mumbai
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearby Attractions: Kanheri Caves, Global Vipassana Pagoda
5. Navegaon National Park
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Navegaon National Park, located in the Gondia area, is known for its peaceful scenery and rich wildlife. The park boasts approximately 133 square kilometres of lush green woods and the beautiful Navegaon Lake, drawing different bird species. It is home to several animals, including deer and lions, making it a fantastic spot for birding and photos. The park offers numerous activities, including treks, boating, and wildlife walks. With basic housing options, it’s easy for tourists to discover its rich wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹20 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Gondia district
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Nearby Attractions: Navegaon Dam, Parshuram Temple
6. Pench National Park
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pench National Park is known for its rich wildlife and beautiful scenery, making it one of the best national parks in Maharashtra. Spread over 758 square kilometres, it includes dry oak woods, green fields, and the beautiful Pench River. It is famous for its population of tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, offering excellent chances for wildlife lovers and photographers. The park offers various activities, including car drives and wildlife walks, immersing tourists in its natural beauty. With cosy lodging, tourists can experience its rich flora and fauna.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹200 for foreigners
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Seoni district
Best Time To Visit: February to June
Nearby Attractions: Pench River, Pench Tiger Reserve
7. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Nikhil More / Wikimedia Commons
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife hotspot and one of the lesser-known national parks in Maharashtra. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it covers approximately 130 square kilometres and is famous for its rich flora and wildlife, including the threatened Indian Giant Squirrel. The thick woods, gorgeous scenery, and quiet environment make it an excellent spot for hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including hiking to the Bhimashankar Temple, an important religious place. It is one of the top national parks in Maharashtra.
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Pune district
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Bhimashankar Temple
8. Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Bangal Priti / Wikimedia Commons
Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its beautiful scenery, thick woods, and wide range of wildlife. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Western Ghats and covers an area of roughly 423 square kilometres. The refuge is home to various wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and numerous bird species, making it a fantastic location for nature fans and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birding, and discovering the various flora and wildlife of the area.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹30 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Satara district
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearby Attractions: Koyna Dam, Mahabaleshwar
9. Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Pratikkulkarni228 / Wikimedia Commons
Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful and less-explored national park in Maharashtra, located in the Kolhapur district. Spanning over 351 square kilometres, it is part of the Sahyadri Mountain group and is known for its rich flora. The refuge is home to various wildlife, including tigers, lions, and the rare Indian bison. It features green woods, calm lakes, and beautiful scenery, making it an ideal location for nature fans and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park through organised hikes and enjoy birding amidst the greenery.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kolhapur district
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearby Attractions: Radhanagari Dam, Bhudargad Fort
Maharashtra is an incredible trove of wildlife and natural beauty, with its national parks giving unique experiences. Whether you are an animal lover or just looking for a peaceful break, the top national parks in Maharashtra have something for everyone. Plan your visit with TripXL to discover these beautiful areas and enjoy the fantastic variety that Maharashtra has to offer.
Cover Photo: Ishani Mehta / Wikimedia Commons
