When is the Best Time to Go to Tadoba National Park

Tadoba National Park is located in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra and is among the oldest tiger reserves in India and is famous for tigers. The Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) covers many forests, lakes, and grasslands. TATR houses the largest population of Bengal tigers and is also known as the Jewel of Vidarbha. Tadoba is the name of an ancient tribal god, and the Andhari river flows through the park and forest, providing rich wildlife. It has thick forests of Teak and Bamboo, open grasslands, and beautiful water bodies, including the Tadoba lake. This national park is home to many birds and animals. In addition to tigers, there are leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, crocodiles, and more than 200 species of birds. Proper planning of your trip ensures the best wildlife sightings, pleasant climate and comfortable safari experience. Let us discuss in detail the multiple seasons that are best for planning your trip to Tadoba.

Best Time to Visit Tadoba National Park

1. Winter (November to February): The Most Relaxing Period
Winter is one of the best times to visit Tadoba National Park. The weather is always nice and cool and maybe a bit chilly in the morning during the jeep safari but if you are in the afternoon it is just nice. The temperatures usually reach 12 - 28 degrees. This time is especially good for families and people visiting for the first time. Winter is also a good time for wildlife photographers as all the animals are most active during early dawn and after dusk. There is a chance to see tigers, leopards, wild dogs and sloth bears as they become active. You can see the grazing herbivores of sambar, chital, nilgai, and gaur. Because of all the migrating birds, winter is the best time for bird watching as they come to the lakes and wetlands of Tadoba Winter is also the best time for bird watching as many migratory birds come to the lakes and wetlands. The forest is also really nice in the morning with soft light and mist. Because this is when many people visit you should reserve your safari in advance.

2. Summer (March to June): Best For Tiger Spottings
Tadoba National Park during the summer can reach temperatures between 25°C to 45°C. It is  especially hot during the months of May and April. Despite the temperature, this is the ideal season to spot tigers. As the summer water sources in the forest dry up, animals come to the more permanent water holes and lakes to drink. This increases the chances that you'll spot tigers either resting near the water holes or walking along the forest's dirt roads. Because summer dries up the forest, the animals are easier to spot making this the preferred season for wildlife photographers. Early morning safaris allow for the best chances to see active wildlife and avoid the extreme afternoon temperatures. Visitors will need to dress in light, breathable clothing and will need to carry ample amounts of water as the heat will be extreme. This season will have the most wildlife and tiger encounters despite the extreme temperatures.

3. Monsoon (July to September): Green and Peaceful
The monsoon season makes Tadoba National Park lush and vibrant. The lake and rivers fill to the brim with rain and the forest looks beautiful. The temperature ranges between 22 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius. The core zone of the park closes for safety and conservation reasons. Some of the buffer zones may open. The dense vegetation makes wildlife sightings difficult. However, the monsoon season is the most peaceful and least crowded. Many animals and birds breed during this season. The landscape with misty hills and sparkling water bodies is stunning. Waterproof clothing is a must and visitors should check for park updates before planning a visit during the monsoon.

4. Post-Monsoon and Early Autumn (October)
October is a great month to visit Tadoba National Park. The jungle is green and lively after the rains. The temperature is between 20° C to 32° C and is ideal for safaris. As the water recedes, animals begin to move, and the jungle comes to life. Butterfly and bird activity is high, and the green jungle makes it a great time for photographers. With the tourist season just starting it is quiet compared to the winter months.

When Are The Safaris At Tadoba National Park?
At Tadoba National Park, two safaris are scheduled for each day, the first starting around 6:00 AM. Morning safaris usually last until around 10:00 AM-11:00 AM depending on the season and until around 2:30 PM for afternoon safaris. The time of the safari may change depending on the time of the sunrise and sunset. The duration of the safari is approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Some of the Wildlife in Tadoba National Park
Watching tigers in Tadoba National Park is a big deal. It is one of the best places in India to see tigers. It is amazing to see a tiger striding along in the wilderness. There are also leopards in the park, but they are shy and a lot harder to see. A sloth bear can also sometimes be seen on the road to the forest, searching for insects. And the dholes. Those are the wild dogs of India, and they are so cool to watch because they run in packs. There are also a lot of herbivores in the Tadoba National Park that include the sambar, the chital, the barking deer, and the nilgai as well as the gaur. Marsh crocodiles can be seen in Tadoba lake, and snakes, monitor lizards and other reptiles can be seen in the park, too. Tadoba Birdwatchers can see a lot of interesting birds, including peafowl, crested serpent eagles, kingfishers, a lot of owls and even some migratory birds.

Useful Information Regarding Tadoba National Park
Safari timing is very important to consider, as morning safaris tend to have more active animals. Always book authorized jeep safaris as they tend to have trained guides. Guides help spot wildlife and give interesting explanations about the forests. Carry binoculars and a good camera to take pictures and capture the best moments. Wear comfortable, earthy toned clothing, try to avoid bright colors. Remain hydrated and avoid activities. Bring a light jacket as it is a fishing activity. Always take into consideration the rules of the forest, such as silence, and listen to your guide. 

Final Thoughts 
If you love adventure and wildlife then Tadoba National Park is the right spot for you. In the summer, wildlife sightings are the highest, but due to the wildlife, it is also very hot. In the winter, it is the most comfortable temperature, but the sightings are balanced. In The Monsoon, it is very green and peaceful. In October, the forest is also very fresh. Tadoba is the best spot to enjoy a safari adventure, to capture and take a lot of pictures, and to enjoy the forest wildlife to create lifelong memories.