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Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Maharashtra, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Maharashtra |
| Districts | Forest Division of Maharashtra |
| Year of Notification | 1978 (Wildlife Protection Act) |
| Total Area | 285.00 sq km |
| Landscape | Western Ghats (Sahyadri) mountain ranges, Konkan coastal hills, semi-evergreen forests, Deccan basaltic plateau, and Vidarbha teak woodlands. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Godavari River, Krishna River, Tapi River, Bhima River, Wainganga River |
| Nearest Airport | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai (BOM) / Pune (PNQ) / Nagpur (NAG) – 35 to 80 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Mumbai Central (MMCT) / Pune Junction (PUNE) / Nagpur Junction (NGP) – 15 to 45 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Maharashtra region of Maharashtra. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Maharashtra.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Maharashtra.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 285.00 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Western Ghats (Sahyadri) mountain ranges, Konkan coastal hills, semi-evergreen forests, Deccan basaltic plateau, and Vidarbha teak woodlands.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Teak (Tectona grandis), Anogeissus latifolia, Terminalia tomentosa, Boswellia serrata, Acacia catechu, Bamboo brakes..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Spotted Deer (Chital), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Porcupine.
- Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Sambar Deer, Chital, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Rock Python, Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Grey Hornbill, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Blue-throated Barbet.
- Raptors & Owls: Crested Hawk-Eagle, Black Kite, Spotted Owlet, Eurasian Eagle-Owl.
- Migratory Species: Pintail Duck, Cotton Teal, Common Kingfisher, Grey Heron, Little Egret.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Godavari River, Krishna River, Tapi River, Bhima River, Wainganga River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Mahabaleshwar Hill Station, Shivaji Maharaj Forts.
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai (BOM) / Pune (PNQ) / Nagpur (NAG) – 35 to 80 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Mumbai Central (MMCT) / Pune Junction (PUNE) / Nagpur Junction (NGP) – 15 to 45 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Maharashtra.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Maharashtra.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Maharashtra.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Indian Leopard and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 285.00 sq km along the Godavari River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026