A Visit near Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary in Gondia District
By JAGAT [08-Aug-24] In the Gondia district of Maharashtra, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary is located peacefully just about 120 km from Nagpur, popularly known as the city of Oranges. The wildlife sanctuary is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, featuring stunning landscapes. Nagzira Sanctuary is adorned with numerous hill ranges and several lakes within its boundaries. The sanctuary's name originates from the presence of a Nag (snake) and Mahadev temple deep within the forest. The word 'Zira' in Marathi signifies a perennial water source, hence the name Nagzira. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1970, it was integrated into the Project Tiger initiative by the state government in 2012. While tigers can be spotted with careful observation, the sanctuary is also renowned for its endangered species, including panthers, small Indian civets, palm civets, jackals, and flying squirrels. Wild dogs and sloth bears are often seen in large groups, with tourists occasionally witnessing sloth bear cubs riding on their mother's back. The sanctuary's uniqueness is further enhanced by its diverse bird population, which frequents the lakeside.
To reach Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, arriving at Nagpur is the best option. The City of Oranges has its own Airport as well as a Railway Station that is well connected to the major cities of India and the neighbouring cities as well. Reaching Nagzira, the most amazing activity to indulge in the wildlife sanctuary is the jeep safari. Book your Nagzira online safari tickets in advance and get set for a wild exploration deep inside the woods of Nagzira. There are two zones in the sanctuary - Chokhramara and Umarzari, with their respective entry gates, Pitezari and Zambhadi. Safaris are carried out in jeeps with a seating capacity of 6 tourists, a driver, and a guide. The drivers and guides are well-versed in forest terms and provide notable insights into the fauna and flora of Nagzira. Abiding by their guidance can also facilitate the chances of wildlife sightings. Safaris in the morning slot operated from 6:00 am to 10:00 am and in the evening they are functional from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
Touristy Locations around Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary
When visiting Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, travelers often take the opportunity to explore nearby attractions after immersing themselves in the wild essence of the forest. The Gondia district offers a wealth of experiences, from its rich history and culture to its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. With its pleasant weather year-round, Gondia attracts numerous tourists. In addition to Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary, several other noteworthy attractions await exploration during a wildlife trip to the area.
Kachargadh Caves - Situated approximately 40 kilometers from Gondia, these ancient caves are estimated to be over 1,500 years old. Carved from a single rock, they feature intricate carvings and sculptures. The caves attract history enthusiasts, providing a fascinating insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Hazra Falls - Hazara Falls becomes a major tourist attraction during the rainy season. Located just 1 km from Darekasa Railway Station, it offers visitors a chance to enjoy the lush natural vegetation. The area is also perfect for camping and trekking activities. The falls provide a stunning view, surrounded by dense forests and hills.
Surya Dev and Mando Devi Temple - Perched on a hilltop, the Suryadev and Mando Devi Temples are essential stops in Gondia. The Suryadev Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, while the Mando Devi Temple honors Mando Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. This temple is reputed to fulfill wishes and is believed to offer healing from various diseases. Within the temple grounds, there is also a cave housing the Hanuman and Maa Annapurna temples. Constructed from a single massive black stone, the temple overlooks a lake to the south.
