Introduction

Navegaon National Park in Maharashtra is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Gondia district, Navegaon National Park in Vidarbha surrounds the historic 18th-century Navegaon Lake in Gondia district.

Quick Facts

Particular Details
StateMaharashtra
DistrictsGondia
Year of Notification1975 (Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve)
Total Area133.78 sq km
LandscapeFreshwater lake, watchtowers, teak forest, and mixed deciduous hills.
Major Rivers & WaterbodiesNavegaon Lake (built by Kolu Patel Kohli in 18th century)
Nearest AirportNagpur Airport (NAG) – 140 km
Nearest Railway StationGondia Junction Railway Station (G) – 65 km / Deori (30 km)
Best Time to VisitOctober to June

Location

The national park lies in the Gondia region of Maharashtra. 65 km from Gondia town.

History

Notified in November 1975 and included in Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve in 2013.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an expansive area of 133.78 sq km, the park’s terrain features Freshwater lake, watchtowers, teak forest, and mixed deciduous hills.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Freshwater lake, watchtowers, teak forest, and mixed deciduous hills.

Fauna

Primary Mammals & Key Species: Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Jackal, and Panther.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Avifauna & Bird Species: Records over 209 bird species. Key species include Saras Crane, Spotted Snipe, Pintail, Teal, Pochard, Cormorant, Stork, and Eagle.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Navegaon National Park is sustained by: Navegaon Lake (built by Kolu Patel Kohli in 18th century).

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (50 km), Itiadoh Dam (20 km), Pratapgad Fort Gondia (35 km).

Weather & Climate

Continental dry climate (12°C to 44°C).

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Nagpur Airport (NAG) – 140 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Gondia Junction Railway Station (G) – 65 km / Deori (30 km)
  • Road Connectivity: 65 km from Gondia town.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Navegaon National Park is from October to June.

Accommodation

Forest Rest House Navegaon, MTDC Resorts.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.

Conservation Highlights

Important Bird Area attracting over 50,000 winter migratory waterfowl annually.

Visitor Tips

Visit Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary watchtower overlooking Navegaon Lake.

Did You Know?

  • Surrounds the historic 18th-century Navegaon Lake built by Kolu Patel Kohli.
  • Over 50,000 winter migratory waterfowl flock to the lake annually.
  • Inscribed as part of the Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve network.

Last Updated: August 2026