Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in Maharashtra, known for its rich biodiversity and tiger sightings. Located around 750 km from Pune, it offers a great getaway for wildlife enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Tadoba from Pune.

1. By Air

Nearest Airport: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur (NAG) Flying is the fastest way to reach Tadoba from Pune. The nearest airport to Tadoba is in Nagpur, and from there, you can continue by road.

Step 1: Take a direct flight from Pune to Nagpur (approximately 1.5 hours). Several airlines operate daily flights on this route.

Step 2: From Nagpur, hire a taxi or take a bus to Tadoba. The distance from Nagpur to Tadoba is around 140 km and takes about 3-4 hours by road.

This is the most time-efficient option, especially for those with tight schedules.

2. By Train

Nearest Railway Station: Chandrapur Railway Station (CD) For those who prefer train travel, Chandrapur Railway Station is the closest major station to Tadoba, located about 45 km from the reserve.

Step 1: Board a train from Pune to Chandrapur. Popular trains include:

Pune-Nagpur Express

Azad Hind Express

Pune-Bilaspur Express

The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours.

Step 2: From Chandrapur, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Tadoba. The drive from Chandrapur to Tadoba takes around 1-1.5 hours.

Alternatively, you can travel by train to Nagpur Railway Station and take a road trip from Nagpur to Tadoba.

3. By Road

Traveling by road from Pune to Tadoba is a fantastic option if you enjoy long drives. The distance is about 750 km, and there are two main routes you can take:

Route 1: Pune → Ahmednagar → Aurangabad → Nagpur → Tadoba Total Distance: Approx. 750 km Travel Time: Around 14-15 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This is the most popular route, passing through Nagpur before heading to Tadoba.

Route 2: Pune → Nashik → Amravati → Nagpur → Tadoba Total Distance: Approx. 800 km Travel Time: 15-16 hours. This route is slightly longer but offers scenic views and a more relaxed drive.

You can either self-drive or hire a cab for the trip. It’s advisable to break your journey with an overnight stop in Nagpur or another suitable location to avoid fatigue.

4. By Bus

Though not as convenient as other options, you can take a bus to Nagpur and then proceed to Tadoba.

Step 1: Board an overnight bus from Pune to Nagpur (approximately 14-16 hours).

Step 2: From Nagpur, book a taxi or take a bus to Tadoba (3-4 hours).

Several private and state-run buses operate between Pune and Nagpur, offering sleeper and semi-sleeper options for comfortable travel.

Final Thoughts

Tadoba is well-connected to Pune by air, rail, and road, giving you plenty of options based on your preferences and schedule. The road trip is long but scenic, while flying to Nagpur shortens the journey considerably. Once you reach Tadoba, the real adventure begins with thrilling tiger safaris, incredible wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

Pro Tip: For a seamless travel experience, book your accommodation and safari permits in advance, especially during peak seasons (November to June), as Tadoba is a popular destination for wildlife lovers.

Enjoy your journey to the wild heart of Maharashtra!