Melghat Tiger project, Chikhaldara| Melghat Tiger project Photos and Timings

Melghat Tiger project, Chikhaldara Overview

The Melghat Tiger Reserve is found in the northern part of the Amravati District, Maharashtra. it is one of the 9 tiger reserves identified by Project Tiger. It is found on the Gavilgarh Hill, a southern offshoot of the Satpura Hill Ranges of Central India. A hill forest region, the reserve has thick undergrowth and a majority of teak trees. Boasting of 82 tigers and other animals like panthers, sloth bears, sambar, wild bear, and wild dogs, the Melghat Tiger Project has a total area of around 1677 sq. km. One often spots eagles in Melghat.

This region is also a water harvesting forest as it lies in the catchment area of River Tapti. It supplies part of the freshwater used by people in the vicinity.

Flora

This entire region is covered by thick forests. Tectona grandis (teak) is the most commonly found tree. Other associate species of teak are found throughout the forest - highlands or lowlands.

Fauna

Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, Ussuri dhole, Indian jackal, sambar, gaur, barking deer, nilgai, chital, chausingha, ratel, flying squirrel, wild boar, langur, rhesus monkey, porcupine, pangolin, mouse deer, python, otter and black-naped hare.

Places to Visit in Melghat

The region is home to the Gavilgad Fort and Narnala Fort. The Project Tiger Museum here is worth visiting. There are a few waterfalls as well, including Pancha Dhara waterfall.

Vairat or Sunset Point is the highest natural point in Chikhaldara. Panchbol Point, Hariken Point, Mozari Point, Prospect Point, Devi Point, Malviya and Sunrise Point also have excellent views, amongst others on Makhala Road.

Bhimkund (Kitchakdari), Vairat Devi, Bir Dam, Kalapani Dam, Mahadev Mandir, Semadhoh Tiger Project, Goraghat, Shakkar Lake, Government Garden, Dharkhura, Bakadari and Kolkaz are a few other attractions in the reserve.

How to Reach

The closest airport is Nagpur Airport, 250km away.
Shahnur Railway Station is closest to the village of Akola.
Chikhaldara, Semadoh, Kolkas and Harisal are the main villages around the reserve area. The nearest railway station to reach these villages is Amravati Railway Station.
Local State Buses are available from both cities to the villages in the reserve.
MTDC organises excursions to the reserve.

Activities

Day & Night Safari, Adventure Sports, Nature Trail, Cycling, Trekking, Water Sport, Kayaking, Elephant Safari & Hiking are some activities that you can sign up for. Camping and trekking services can be taken up at the Semadoh Tourist Centre.