Chandoli National Park

Chandoli National Park In Maharashtra, India

Chandoli National Park, located in the Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara, and Ratnagiri districts of Maharashtra, is a significant wildlife sanctuary covering an area of 317.67 square kilometers. Declared a national park in 2004, it was previously a wildlife sanctuary since 1985 and now forms an essential part of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, along with Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chandoli National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, dense forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, and rivers, creating a perfect habitat for diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to several endangered and rare species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, Indian gaur (bison), sambar deer, barking deer, and mouse deer.

Other carnivores such as striped hyenas, wild boars, and Indian foxes are also found here. The region is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds, including hornbills, crested serpent eagles, paradise flycatchers, and Malabar grey hornbills.

The Warana, Kadvi, and Bhogavati Rivers, along with numerous waterfalls, enhance the beauty of the park and provide a crucial water source for its wildlife. Apart from its ecological importance, Chandoli National Park has historical significance, with forts like Prachitgad and Bhairavgad, which were once strongholds of Shivaji Maharaj and the Marathas.

With its pristine landscapes, diverse wildlife, and historical sites, Chandoli National Park is an offbeat yet remarkable destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs exploring Maharashtra’s Western Ghats.