Where the Wainganga River meets the wilderness — a spectacular landscape teeming with riverine wildlife and birdlife.
Safari Entry Point
The Pauni Gate serves as the eastern entry into the Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, operating under the Pauni Tahsil of Bhandara district. It is the most scenic of the three gates, bordered by the majestic Wainganga River to the northeast and flanked by the Gose Khurd Dam reservoir — creating a rich riverine ecosystem unlike any other zone in the sanctuary.
The landscape at the Pauni zone is a beautiful blend of riparian forests, sand bars, rocky outcrops, and grassland patches. The proximity to the river creates a distinctive microhabitat that supports species not commonly found at the other gates, including smooth-coated otters, mugger crocodiles, and a spectacular diversity of water birds and migratory species.
The zone is also a significant tiger territory — tigers are regularly seen cooling down by the river's edge during summer safaris, offering photographers and wildlife enthusiasts truly rare and frame-worthy moments.
Pauni safaris traverse riverside forest trails that are unique in character — the sound of flowing water, the scent of sand, and the sight of birds skimming the river surface create an immersive sensory experience. The jeep tracks at Pauni are well-maintained and offer comfortable passage even in the early morning when dew clings to the forest floor.
The evening safari at Pauni Gate is particularly magical — as the Wainganga glows amber in the setting sun and tigers emerge from the forest to drink at the river's edge, it creates one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles in Maharashtra.
Pauni Gate is renowned as the best birdwatching zone in the UPKWS. The combination of river, dam backwater, and riparian forests provides habitat for an extraordinary variety of birds. Over 200 species have been recorded here, including the Indian Skimmer, Woolly-necked Stork, Lesser Adjutant, Pied Kingfisher, and the rare Black-bellied Tern.
During winter months (November–February), the sanctuary near Pauni receives migratory birds from Central Asia and Eastern Europe, adding dozens of unusual species to a birdwatcher's list in a single day.
Pauni Gate is located approximately 60 km from Nagpur via the Nagpur–Bhandara highway, turning south at Pauni town towards the sanctuary. From Bhandara town, the gate is approximately 20 km to the west. State Transport buses operate from Bhandara Bus Stand to Pauni, from where local auto-rickshaws can take you to the gate. Private vehicles and taxis from Nagpur and Bhandara are a convenient option for safari groups.
Wildlife Spotted Here
Safari Tips
The riverside trails at Pauni offer a uniquely scenic experience. Carry a good camera — the light near water is extraordinary.
With 200+ bird species, a field guide to Indian birds will make your Pauni visit infinitely more rewarding.
March to May is peak season for spotting tigers near the Wainganga riverbank as they cool down in the heat.
November to February is ideal for seeing rare migratory birds. Combine with a Nagpur city visit for a memorable trip.
The riverine zone has more insects, particularly in the early morning. Apply repellent before your safari begins.
Pauni Gate has limited daily permits. Advance booking (at least a week ahead in peak season) is strongly recommended.