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Introduction
Gugamal National Park in Maharashtra is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Amravati (Melghat) district, Gugamal National Park forms the pristine core of Melghat Tiger Reserve in the Satpura Hill Range.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Maharashtra |
| Districts | Amravati (Melghat) |
| Year of Notification | 1975 (Core of Melghat Tiger Reserve) |
| Total Area | 361.28 sq km |
| Landscape | Satpura hill ridges, deep ravines, Salai & Teak forest, and bamboo brakes. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Tapi River (northern boundary), Sipna River, Khapra River, and Dolar River |
| Nearest Airport | Nagpur Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Airport (NAG) – 220 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Badnera Junction Railway Station (BD) – 110 km / Akola Junction – 110 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to June |
Location
The national park lies in the Amravati (Melghat) region of Maharashtra. Via Amravati/Paratwada to Semadoh/Chikhaldara.
History
Notified in February 1975 under Project Tiger.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 361.28 sq km, the park’s terrain features Satpura hill ridges, deep ravines, Salai & Teak forest, and bamboo brakes.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Satpura hill ridges, deep ravines, Salai & Teak forest, and bamboo brakes.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Wild Dog (Dhole), and Caracal.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Forest Owlet (critically endangered endemic owl rediscovered here!), Great Pied Hornbill, Grey Hornbill, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Crested Eagle, and Peafowl.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Gugamal National Park is sustained by: Tapi River (northern boundary), Sipna River, Khapra River, and Dolar River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Chikhaldara Hill Station (45 km), Gawilghur Fort (50 km), Semadoh Eco-Tourism Center (20 km).
Weather & Climate
Dry tropical climate (12°C to 42°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Nagpur Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Airport (NAG) – 220 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Badnera Junction Railway Station (BD) – 110 km / Akola Junction – 110 km
- Road Connectivity: Via Amravati/Paratwada to Semadoh/Chikhaldara.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Gugamal National Park is from October to June.
Accommodation
Maharashtra Forest Department Huts at Semadoh & Chikhaldara.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Site of the historic rediscovery of the critically endangered Forest Owlet.
Visitor Tips
Stay at Semadoh eco-tourism complex on the banks of the Sipna River.
Did You Know?
- Site where the Forest Owlet was rediscovered after being considered extinct for 113 years.
- Forms the core of Melghat, one of India’s original 9 Project Tiger reserves of 1973.
- Traversed by 5 rivers: Sipna, Khapra, Mali, Dolar, and Garga.
Last Updated: August 2026