Yavatmal, a city in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra is popular for its Navratri celebration. Yavatmal derives its name from the combination of two Marathi words - “Yavat,” meaning mountains, and “Mal,” meaning row. Located in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, the city is often referred to as the “Cotton City” due to its abundant production of cotton, which is a major cash crop in the area. The residents of this significant city have the greatest opportunity to get exposure to the best wildlife exploration in India. The highly popular Tadoba National Park is located 158 km from Yavatmal. However, being steeped in popularity among general tourists as well as wildlife enthusiasts, the safaris tend to be sold out during the peak tourist season. But the good news is, there’s no need to be disheartened if you have missed out on the safari booking of Tadoba National Park. There is a hidden wildlife gem, even closer to Yavatmal as compared to Tadoba. Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a lesser-known wildlife haven, located approximately 75 km from Yavatmal.
Exploring the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible way to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and a short escape to enjoy a thrilling safari experience. Begin your trip with an early morning departure from Yavatmal. Leaving by 6:00 am is recommended to give you enough time to relax and enjoy your day at Tipeshwar. The sanctuary is about 2 hours away, with a scenic route that takes you through small villages and stretches of greenery. Make sure to pack essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a camera to capture the memories. The route takes you through SH237 and SH257 and you can take the journey at a slow pace to enjoy the drive.
Once you arrive at the sanctuary, head to the entrance to complete the necessary formalities for entry and permits. It’s important to ensure that all paperwork is in place before embarking on your safari. You can also take some time to stretch, enjoy a quick snack, and prepare yourself for the adventure ahead.
After lunch at a nearby resort or a restaurant on the way, gear up for your late afternoon safari. The jeep safari usually starts at 2:00 pm and lasts until 6:00 pm. Don’t forget to make your Tipeshwar safari booking in advance to secure your spot. The safari experience at Tipeshwar is truly thrilling as you journey through dense forests, open meadows, and waterholes. Keep your eyes peeled and lenses ready for Tipeshwar’s famous residents like tigers, leopards, wild boars, sloth bears, and various species of deer. The sanctuary is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with plenty of opportunities to spot colourful birds in their natural habitat.
As the sun sets and the safari comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to Tipeshwar. Depart from the sanctuary and head back to Yavatmal. Since the distance is not much to cover.