Gateway to lush green valleys and pristine watering holes — a haven for Gaur, wild dogs, and rare bird species.
Safari Entry Point
The Gothangaon Gate offers access to the more remote and less-frequented southern corridors of the Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary. Named after the village of Gothangaon in the Bhiwapur Taluka of Nagpur district, this entry point is celebrated for its serene and undisturbed jungle experience.
Unlike the busier Karhandla Gate, Gothangaon sees fewer safari vehicles, which means a quieter, more intimate wildlife experience. The trails weave through mixed deciduous forests with rich undergrowth, opening into meadows where large herds of Indian Gaur graze in the early hours of the morning.
The area around Gothangaon Gate also serves as a significant corridor connecting the UPKWS to other forest reserves in the Vidarbha landscape. This connectivity makes it an important zone for wildlife movement, and sightings of dispersing tigers and leopards have been reported with increasing frequency.
The Gothangaon safari zone covers dense teak and bamboo forests, seasonal streams, and open grasslands. The tracks here are less defined, offering a more rugged and adventurous experience. Naturalist guides with deep knowledge of the local ecosystem accompany every safari, pointing out animal tracks, bird calls, and subtle signs of wildlife activity.
The gate is particularly well-regarded for birdwatching opportunities, with over 150 species recorded in the zone. Both morning and evening safaris run for approximately 3 hours each, covering the core safari routes within the buffer and core zones.
Gothangaon is most renowned for its Gaur herds — the world's largest bovine can be seen in groups of 20–40 animals near watering holes, especially in summer. The zone also harbours a healthy population of sambar deer, Indian hare, and porcupines. Wild dog packs have been regularly sighted along the forest edges at dusk.
For photography enthusiasts, the Gothangaon zone offers excellent light conditions in the evening, when the setting sun filters through the teak canopy to create stunning golden light across the grasslands.
Gothangaon Gate is approximately 55 km from Nagpur via the Bhiwapur route. Shared jeeps and private taxis are available from Bhiwapur town. The forest department check-post is clearly marked, and permits must be obtained and verified before entry.
Wildlife Spotted Here
Safari Tips
Visit between February and May for the best chance of seeing large Gaur herds near the watering holes.
Gothangaon is excellent for birdwatching. A good pair of binoculars enhances your experience greatly.
The evening safari here offers spectacular golden-hour photography opportunities in the open meadows.
This gate sees fewer vehicles, so expect a more peaceful and undisturbed jungle environment.
Trails can be uneven. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Sandals and slippers are not recommended.
Online permits are mandatory. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated. Book at least 3–5 days in advance.