Jungle Safaris in Maharashtra's Tiger Reserves Suspended from July 1: Monsoon Breeding Season Begins

Nagpur, June 2025 – From July 1 onwards, jungle safaris in the core zones of some of Maharashtra’s most popular tiger reserves—including Tadoba-Andhari, Pench, Bor, and Umred-Paoni-Karhandla—will be suspended until further notice. The annual closure, as mandated by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), is a vital step in protecting wildlife during the monsoon, especially during the crucial breeding season.

This move, though temporary, is an important reminder that wildlife conservation and eco-tourism must go hand in hand.

 

Why the Closure?

According to a press release issued by Dr. Kishor Mankar, Chief Conservator of Forests and Field Director of Pench Tiger Reserve, the closure is being enforced to ensure that wild animals are free to move, mate, and nurture their young in peace during the rainy season.

“The monsoon period is not only sensitive for the forest ecosystem but also essential for natural animal behaviour. Human movement, even via regulated safaris, can disrupt this balance,” said Dr. Mankar.

Every year, the core forest areas of Maharashtra’s tiger reserves are closed from July 1 to October 30. The aim is to minimize human interference, especially in tiger habitats, which are extremely fragile during the rainy season.

 

Which Tiger Reserves Are Affected?
 

Here’s a quick list of reserves where jungle safaris will be suspended in the core zones:

• Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) – Chandrapur district
• Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) – Nagpur and Seoni (Madhya Pradesh border)
• Bor Tiger Reserve (BTR) – Wardha district
• Umred-Paoni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary (UPKWS) – Nagpur district

These forests are biodiversity hotspots, home not just to tigers but also to leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaurs, and over 200 species of birds.

However, buffer zones—areas on the periphery of core forests—will remain partially open, but with limited access and only through offline bookings.

 

What About Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve?

In the case of Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR), the decision to suspend safaris in core areas will be based on the onset of monsoon rains. If rains begin around July 1, as expected, closures will be implemented accordingly.

Forest officials have said that depending on the rain intensity and safety conditions, some buffer zones in Nagzira might be selectively opened for low-volume eco-tourism.

 

Buffer Zones to Remain Open (With Limitations)
 

For tourists still eager to enjoy the wild beauty of Maharashtra’s forests, there’s a silver lining: safaris in the buffer zones will continue, albeit with restrictions.

• Access will be limited.
• Bookings will be accepted offline only.
• Vehicle entry will be capped to reduce disturbance.

These zones provide a wonderful alternative to core safaris and still offer sightings of herbivores, small carnivores, birds, and sometimes even tigers on the move.

 

Why This Matters for Conservation
 

The monsoon is a sensitive time in forest ecosystems:

• Tigers and other big cats establish and defend territories during this time.
• Many species, especially herbivores, are in their birthing season.
• The rains nourish the forest, supporting plant regeneration and water sources.

By suspending tourist activity during this period, the Forest Department aligns with global best practices in wildlife conservation. The move also ensures tourist safety, as roads and trails often become inaccessible or dangerous due to heavy rainfall.

 

Tadoba’s Popularity and Tourist Impact

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Among the reserves listed, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) is particularly famous. Known for one of the highest tiger sighting rates in India, Tadoba attracts lakhs of visitors each year.

In FY 2024–25, Tadoba alone welcomed over two lakh tourists, many from overseas, making it a major contributor to eco-tourism revenue in the region.

Despite the closure of the core, some buffer routes in Kolara, Moharli, and Navegaon zones may remain accessible in limited capacity.

 

When Will Safaris Resume?

Routine operations and core-zone jungle safaris are expected to resume from October 1, depending on monsoon conditions and forest assessments.

Forest authorities will review the situation toward the end of September 2025 to ensure trail conditions, wildlife activity, and safety protocols are suitable for reopening.

 

What Tourists Should Know & Do

 

• Respect the seasonal closure – it's for the good of the animals.
• Opt for buffer zone safaris or visit nature interpretation centres nearby.
• Avoid online scams — buffer bookings are offline only during this period.
• Keep an eye on Forest Department updates via their official website or regional offices.

 

A Reminder to All Nature Lovers

The temporary pause in jungle safaris is not a disruption — it’s a reminder. A reminder that nature thrives best when left undisturbed, even if just for a few months.

For tourists, it's a chance to understand the seasonal cycles of wildlife. For forest officials, it’s a much-needed window to carry out monitoring, maintenance, and anti-poaching operations.

And for the wild residents of these majestic reserves — it's a season of peace, privacy, and new life.