Melghat Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Melghat Tiger Reserve, located in the Satpura ranges of Maharashtra, is one of India’s earliest Tiger Reserves, having been included among the original reserves under Project Tiger in 1973. The reserve is renowned for its rugged hills, deep valleys, extensive teak forests and rich wildlife. It forms an important part of the Satpura–Maikal landscape and provides vital habitat for Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Gaur and a remarkable diversity of birds.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Maharashtra
District	Amravati
Tiger Reserve Notification	1973
Total Area	2,768.52 sq km
Core Area	1,500.49 sq km
Buffer Area	1,268.03 sq km
Landscape	Satpura Hills
Forest Types	Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous, Moist Deciduous and Teak Forests
Major Rivers	Sipna, Gadga, Dolar and Khapra
Best Time to Visit	October to June

Location

Melghat Tiger Reserve lies in the northern Satpura ranges of Maharashtra near the Madhya Pradesh border. It forms an important ecological link with neighbouring protected forests in central India.

History

The reserve comprises Gugamal National Park, Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary and adjoining protected areas. It was among the first nine Tiger Reserves established under Project Tiger in 1973 and has since become one of Maharashtra’s premier wildlife conservation landscapes.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Spread across 2,768.52 sq km, including a core area of 1,500.49 sq km and a buffer area of 1,268.03 sq km, the reserve consists of rugged hills, steep escarpments, deep valleys, plateaus, perennial streams and extensive teak forests. The varied topography creates diverse habitats for large mammals and birds.

Flora

The reserve is dominated by teak along with saja, lendia, dhaora, bamboo, mahua, tendu, arjun, jamun and numerous grasses and medicinal plants.

Fauna

Melghat supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Indian Giant Squirrel and many smaller mammals. More than 300 bird species occur here, including Crested Serpent Eagle, Paradise Flycatcher and Grey Junglefowl. Reptiles include Indian Rock Python, Cobra, Krait and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Sipna River is the principal river of the reserve. Numerous perennial streams and reservoirs sustain wildlife throughout the year.

Other Attractions

Gugamal National Park, Semadoh Nature Interpretation Centre, Chikhaldara hill station and panoramic viewpoints are major attractions.

Weather & Climate

Summers are warm, the southwest monsoon brings substantial rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant, making the reserve attractive for wildlife tourism.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Nagpur. Nearest railway stations: Amravati, Badnera and Paratwada. The reserve is well connected by road from Amravati and Nagpur.

Best Time to Visit

October to June is the principal tourism season, with late summer often providing excellent wildlife sightings.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Maharashtra Tourism accommodation are available at Semadoh, Kolkas and other authorised locations, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Melghat remains a stronghold for tiger conservation in the Satpura landscape. Habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, camera-trap monitoring and community participation continue to strengthen wildlife conservation.

Visitor Tips

Book accommodation and safaris in advance, wear neutral-coloured clothing, avoid littering, maintain silence and follow Forest Department guidelines.

Did You Know?

• Melghat was among the original Tiger Reserves established under Project Tiger in 1973.
• The name ‘Melghat’ means ‘meeting of the ghats’.
• Chikhaldara, Maharashtra’s only hill station, lies close to the reserve.

Last Updated

July 2026