History of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

The history of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, tribal culture, and centuries-old forests that have remained largely undisturbed by human influence. The name “Tadoba” originates from Taru, a revered tribal deity of the local Gond community. According to legend, Taru was a courageous chief who died while fighting a tiger, and a shrine dedicated to him still stands near the Tadoba Lake, symbolizing the deep connection between the forest and its indigenous people. For generations, these tribes protected the wilderness, allowing the region’s biodiversity to thrive long before it was officially recognized as a protected area.

In the early 20th century, the area was part of a dense and remote jungle where wildlife flourished naturally. British-era hunting activities did affect some species, but the vastness and inaccessibility of the forest helped preserve much of its natural ecosystem. Recognizing its ecological value, the government declared the central portion of the forest as Tadoba National Park in 1955, making it one of Maharashtra’s oldest national parks.

Later, in 1986, the adjoining Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, named after the Andhari River that flows through the forest, was also established to protect the surrounding rich habitats. As conservation awareness grew, both the national park and the sanctuary were merged in 1995, forming what is now known as the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).

The turning point in its conservation journey came with India’s successful Project Tiger initiative. Tadoba was brought under the project’s umbrella, enabling stricter protection, scientific habitat management, and focused efforts to increase tiger populations. Over time, Tadoba transformed from a lesser-known forest into one of the most successful tiger reserves in India, now renowned for its high density of Bengal Tigers and excellent sighting records.

Today, Tadoba’s history reflects a remarkable journey—from sacred tribal land to a fully established tiger reserve—while preserving its raw, untouched wilderness.

Biography of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is a majestic forest landscape whose “life story” spans centuries of natural evolution, tribal guardianship, and modern conservation. Born from the ancient wilderness of the Deccan region, Tadoba’s identity began to form long before it was officially recognized, when dense teak forests, bamboo thickets, and shimmering lakes created a thriving home for tigers, wildlife, and indigenous tribes.

The Gond people worshipped Taru, a brave tribal chief who defended the forest. His legacy lives on through a shrine near Tadoba Lake, symbolizing the spiritual bond between humans and the forest.

Tadoba’s childhood years were untouched and wild. Wildlife flourished freely — tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, herbivores, reptiles, and birds — making it one of the most vibrant ecosystems in central India.

In 1955, the pristine part of the forest was declared Tadoba National Park. In 1986, the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was added, linking river-fed forests to the core habitat. Their merging in 1995 officially created the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).

Under Project Tiger, Tadoba evolved into one of India’s most successful tiger reserves. Strict anti-poaching actions and scientific conservation helped restore natural balance. Today, Tadoba is globally known for its thriving tiger population and extraordinary sightings.

From sacred tribal land to a world-famous tiger stronghold, Tadoba’s biography is a story of survival, protection, and the timeless power of nature.

Core Zones of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

• Moharli Zone (Core)
• Navegaon Zone (Core)
• Kolara Zone (Core)
• Pangadi and Zari Zone (Core)

Buffer Safari Gates of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve Safari Timings

Distance of Core Safari Gates from Nagpur and Chandrapur