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Sahyadri Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, located in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, was notified in 2007. Formed by combining Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, it conserves one of India’s most important mountain forest ecosystems and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Western Ghats.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Maharashtra |
| Districts | Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur and Ratnagiri |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 2007 |
| Total Area | 1,165.57 sq km |
| Core Area | 741.22 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 424.35 sq km |
| Landscape | Western Ghats |
| Forest Types | Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen and Moist Deciduous Forests |
| Major Rivers | Koyna, Warna and Kandar |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
Location
The reserve lies in the northern Western Ghats across Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur and Ratnagiri districts.
History
Established in 2007 under Project Tiger, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve integrates Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary into a single conservation landscape.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve encompasses rugged mountains, deep valleys, lateritic plateaus, evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests and numerous streams and reservoirs.
Flora
Vegetation includes anjani, jamun, hirda, mango, kinjal, bamboo, karvi and a rich diversity of orchids, climbers and medicinal plants.
Fauna
Key wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Dhole, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Indian Giant Squirrel, Malabar Giant Squirrel, King Cobra and over 300 bird species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Koyna and Warna rivers, along with the Koyna reservoir and numerous perennial streams, sustain the reserve’s ecosystems.
Other Attractions
Chandoli National Park, Koyna backwaters, scenic viewpoints, trekking routes and birdwatching are major attractions.
Weather & Climate
The reserve experiences cool winters, pleasant summers at higher elevations and heavy southwest monsoon rainfall.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Pune. Nearest railway stations: Karad, Satara and Kolhapur. The reserve is accessible by road from Pune, Kolhapur and Satara.
Best Time to Visit
October to May is the ideal season for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Maharashtra Tourism accommodation are available near designated tourism zones with prior booking.
Conservation Highlights
Sahyadri protects a globally significant Western Ghats ecosystem, supports tiger recovery, safeguards watershed forests and conserves many endemic plant and animal species.
Visitor Tips
Carry rain protection during the monsoon season, wear sturdy footwear and always follow Forest Department guidelines.
Did You Know?
• Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is part of the UNESCO-listed Western Ghats.
• It was created by combining Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.
• It protects one of Maharashtra’s largest contiguous mountain forest landscapes.
Last Updated
July 2026