Plan a Tadoba Tiger Safari from Pune - Routes & Itinerary
Tadoba Andhari National Park is one of the oldest and most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries in India. Often referred to as the “Jewel of Vidarbha,” this reserve is a paradise for wildlife lovers, especially those hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. For those living in or around Pune, Tadoba offers a convenient and adventurous getaway into the wild. Its relatively easy accessibility and increasing popularity among nature enthusiasts make it an ideal destination for a weekend wildlife escape. Many nature lovers from Pune opt for customized Tadoba tour packages, which offer a hassle-free way to explore the reserve.
You’ll find a complete guide to planning a Tadoba safari from Pune, covering essential details like travel routes, safari zones, how to navigate the Tadoba online safari booking process, and a suggested itinerary - all designed to make your wildlife adventure smooth and memorable.
Travelling Options from Pune to Tadoba
Tadoba is located approximately 790 km from Pune, with the distance varying slightly depending on which gate of the park you plan to enter. The most common entry points include Moharli, Kolara, and Navegaon. Travellers from Pune have several transportation options to reach the reserve:
By Train
Trains are a reliable and cost-effective way to travel to Tadoba National Park. You can take a train from Pune to Chandrapur (the closest major railway station to Tadoba), which is about 30-35 km from the reserve. At least one direct train runs between Pune and Chandrapur, while 4–5 trains connect Pune to Nagpur, which is around 105 km from Tadoba. From either station, taxis and local transport are readily available to reach your safari gate.
By Air
Taking a flight is the quickest method to get to Tadoba from Pune. There are two direct flights from Pune to Nagpur daily. Once you land in Nagpur, you can hire a cab or opt for pre-arranged transport to Tadoba, which takes approximately 2-3 hours by road. Many Tadoba tour packages include pickup and drop-off services from Nagpur airport, ensuring a smooth transition to your safari adventure.
Tadoba is divided into core and buffer zones, each offering a unique wildlife experience. Each zone has its own charm, and the choice often depends on your entry gate and travel route. The popular Tadoba safari zones include - Moharli, Kolara, Agarzari, Pangadi, Adegaon and a few more. When planning your trip, it’s essential to align your Tadoba online safari booking with the zone nearest to your accommodation or entry point.
Sample Itinerary: 3 Nights / 4 Days Tadoba Safari from Pune
Day 1: Start your journey from Pune early in the morning by road, train, or flight. If you’re flying, land in Nagpur and drive to Tadoba. Arrive by evening, check into your lodge or resort, and relax. Enjoy the natural surroundings and get a good night's rest before the big day.
Day 2: Wake up early and head for your morning safari in a core zone like Moharli or Kolara. These zones have canter safaris. Return for breakfast and spend the late morning at leisure. After lunch, go for an afternoon safari in a different zone or buffer area. The safari drives last for about 4 hours, delving deep inside the forest.
Day 3: If you're feeling adventurous, go for an optional early morning safari or take a guided nature trail to explore the flora and smaller wildlife on foot. After breakfast, visit the Erai Dam and Lake. You can also explore the local Kolsa village nearby for a cultural experience.
Day 4: Check out after breakfast and begin your return journey to Pune via your chosen mode of travel - flight or train.