Navegaon National Park (Maharashtra)

The Navegaon National Park situated in Navegoan, Gondia is one of the most admired forest resorts in the Vidarbha region. The Park is spread over an area of 135 sq kms. A charming lake with crystal clear water, stretching over an area of 11 sq. kms is set in the midst of hill ranges and can be approached through a succession of twisting trails. Tactically positioned, watch towers enable the visitor to Navegaon to catch a glimpse of the region's varied wildlife. It consists of a deer park, an aviary and three beautifully landscaped gardens.

Legend Of Navegaon Lake:

There is an appealing legend about Navegaon Lake. Kolu Patel Kohli produced the lake at the start of the 18th century. He is now defined as "Kolasur Deo" and his shrine is on one of the peaks neighboring the lake. The seven peaks surrounding the lake are recognized as the "Sat Bahini" or seven sisters. It is believed that these deities helped Kolu in building the lake. On the border of the lake is an idol of Hanuman, the god of strength, whose feet are said to go below the embankment.

The island in the middle of the lake is well known as "Maldonger" and was used by the villagers as a safe haven from the raiding 'Pindaris' (A tribe of professional robbers). The area around the lake is known as the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, in memory of the prominent ornithologist. Best time to visit this sanctuary is between October to June and every winter, the Navegaon Lake becomes the refuge of huge flocks of migrating ducks and the misty winter mornings are distinguished by their loud calls.

Flora in Navegaon National Park:

The forest is typical Southern mixed dry deciduous forest. The main species are Teak, Haldu, Jamun, Kawat, Mahua, Ain, Bhel and Bhor, etc.

Avifauna:

Almost 60% of all bird species traced in Maharashtra are in evidence at Navegaon. The familiarity and the excitement of having spotted the scarlet minivet, a paradise fly catcher or the sapphire blue flash of a kingfisher gliding on the surface of the lake for fish is quite out of the world.

Though Navegaon is better identified as a bird sanctuary, a number of wild animals could also be spotted. Tigers, Panthers, Bisons, Sambars, Nilgais, Chitals, Wild boars, Sloth Bears, and Wild Dogs are main wild life species in this national park.

Other Attractions:
One can also join the Jungle Safari and wander through the handsome forest, crossing paths with Leopards, Sloth Bears, Gaurs, Sambars, Chitals and Langoors. Staying in the unique treetop house, riding a power or sailboat on the lake, are also some thrilling pastimes one can enjoy over here. Nearly 50,000 tourists visit this tourist complex annually.
Nearby Attractions (Navegaon National Park):
Places of interest around the national park are Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km), Itiadoh Dam (20-km), Tibetan Camp at Gothangaon (15 km) and Pratapgad (15 km).

Weather (Navegaon National Park) :
Temperatures are pleasant all year round.

How To Get There(Navegaon National Park) :

By Air: Nearest airport is at Nagpur, 142-km away from the park.
By Rail: Deulgaon on Chandrapur-Gondia railway line is the nearest railway station, 2-km away from the park.
By Road: The nearest bus stand is Navegaon 10-km away from the park.