Jul 25, 2009 04:48 PM
10164 Views
(Updated Jul 25, 2009 08:55 PM)
Overview of the destination
Tadoba is India's best kept secret. TATR as it is known in short has wildlife in abundance & that too in different variety. In a total of six jeep safaris our sightings included Tigers(2 times from close & another 2? 3 times for a distance, Sloth Bears, Wild Dogs, Bison herds, Nilgai, Monkeys, all types of Deers, the elusive Jungle cat & in birds Peacocks, Indian Pitta, Owl, Kingfisher, Serpent Eagle & many more. We missed out on Leopard but there are regular sightings of the same in Tadoba. I would say Tadoba is a must visit place for a wildlife & nature lover.
Food, sight-seeing and shopping
Since there are only three options to choose for accommodation in Tadoba the same applies for food also. Generally visitors have food in the restaurant where they have stayed. The food at MTDC Resort was good(homely) but the variety is limited. However the food is cheap as compared to other MTDC Resorts. There are one or two general stores which stock limited items like biscuits, Peppy etc., so include all general items & medicines you will need in your packing list while visiting Tadoba. Tadoba is not for shopping enthusiasts as there is nothing to shop here.
Activities & things to do
Well there is only one activity in Tadoba i.e. going on a jungle safari. Park safari timings are 6.00 AM to 11.00 AM & in afternoon 3.00 PM to 7.00 PM. Timings may differ during winter season. One should go on maximum safaris possible to boost your chances of sighting animals & birds. As of June private Vehicles are allowed inside the forest(with a forest guide) but they are planning to ban the same, so kindly confirm before going. My advice(even if you are going with a private Vehicle) would be to park the same at your hotel & opt for an open gypsy, you will love the experience & additionally you will have advantage of two guides(one forest dept. guide & second is your driver who is as good as a guide). Sightings in Tadoba are very good & you will not be disappointed.
Travel tips, How to reach, travel warnings etc.
How to Reach: Chandrapur is the nearest Rail head around 30 - 40 Kms from Tadoba. Only one train is available from Mumbai for Chandrapur(Sewagram Express, Leaves Mumbai CST at 3.30 PM). One has to take a Taxi from Chandrapur(Approx. Rs. 500) as direct buses to the place are very few. Alternately one can hire a taxi from Nagpur(around 170 kms) also. Travel Tips: 1. For best sightings visit Tadoba in summer months. It's very hot during these times but you will be rewarded with good sightings. Opt for an AC accommodation & during safaris carry plenty of water(preferably mixed with Glucon D / C), big hats to protect from sun, wear full sleeved shirts or t -shirts, binoculars, camera etc. 2. If you are really very keen on sightings stay there for at least 3 days in which you can opt for a maximum of 6 safaris. As of June 09 each round of safari costs Rs. 1300 plus around Rs. 200 to Rs. 250 entry & guides fees depending upon the no. of persons & cameras. 3. If you are not very keen on animal sightings & want to experience the Jungle during rains then Tadoba is the place as it is one of the few parks in India which remains open to visitors during monsoons. 4. Please note the park remains closed on every Tuesdays. 5. As there are very few open gypsies for safaris please book the same in advance if you are visiting the park during holidays or on weekends. Also book your accommodation in advance as there are only three options to choose from. MTDC is your best bet for accommodation. 6. While in jungle wear appropriate clothes so that it camouflages with the surroundings, talk softly, don't litter & listen to your guide.
