Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Pune, Mahārāshtra, India
1. Karla-Lohagad Black Panther Wildlife Sanctuary
A unique sanctuary with a rich history and the only place to spot black panthers in Pune.
- Unusual Fauna: Home to black panthers, barking deer, and various bird species.
- Historical Significance: Surrounded by the ancient Karla and Lohagad forts.
- Trekking Opportunities: Offers challenging treks to the forts for adventurous visitors.
2. Sinhagad Fort Wildlife Sanctuary
A popular fort turned wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna.
- Verdant Flora: Abundance of dense forests, including teak and mango trees.
- Rich Wildlife: Home to various wildlife species like leopards, jackals, and wild boars.
- Historical Landmark: Has historical significance as a strategic fort since ancient times.
3. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the endangered grizzled giant squirrel.
- Endangered Species: Home to the endangered grizzled giant squirrel and tiger.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Rich in biodiversity with over 1,300 plant species and numerous animal species.
- Spiritual Significance: The sanctuary is also home to the Bhimashankar temple, a revered Hindu site.
4. Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary
A lush green sanctuary with a variety of wildlife including the gaur and sambar deer.
- Gaur Population: One of the few places in Maharashtra where gaurs are found.
- Biodiversity Haven: Home to over 650 plant species, numerous bird species, and various mammals.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers scenic beauty with its lush green valleys and waterfalls.
5. Tulsi Lake Bird Sanctuary
A picturesque lake attracting various migratory birds.
- Migratory Birds: Attracts over 80 species of migratory birds during winter.
- Flora and Fauna: Rich in flora and fauna with trees like neem, banyan, and fig providing a habitat for various wildlife.
- Eco-friendly Initiatives: Promotes eco-friendly initiatives like plantation drives and waste management programs.
6. Panshet Dam Wildlife Sanctuary
A peaceful sanctuary nestled around picturesque Panshet dam and lake.
- Wildlife Abundance: Rich in wildlife with sightings of animals like bison, sambar deer, and mongoose.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers scenic beauty with its lush green surroundings and picturesque dam.
- Water Sports Activities: Provides opportunities for water sports like boating and kayaking.
7. Mulshi Wildlife Sanctuary
A serene sanctuary with rich biodiversity and opportunities for trekking.
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with over 600 plant species and various wildlife.
- Trekking Trails: Offers challenging trekking trails through the dense forests.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides scenic beauty with its lush green valleys and waterfalls.
8. Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary
A vibrant sanctuary attracting over 100 species of birds.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.
- Flamingo Spotting: Known for flamingo spotting during the winter months.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides excellent photography opportunities for bird and wildlife enthusiasts.
9. Mumbai-Pune Expressway Wildlife Corridor
A unique corridor connecting two cities while providing a habitat for wildlife.
- Wildlife Connectivity: Ensures connectivity and movement of wildlife between two major urban areas.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Promotes biodiversity conservation through habitat preservation.
- Urban Wildlife Management: Innovative approach to wildlife management in an urban setting.
10. Nane Ghat Viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint offering glimpses of the Sahyadri range and its wildlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Natural Beauty Appreciation: Ideal for appreciating the raw and natural beauty of the Sahyadri range.
11. Morachi Soya Chikhal Kavala
A wetland rich in avian diversity and a perfect spot for birdwatching.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides chances to spot various species of birds and mammals.
- Eco-friendly Initiatives: Promotes eco-friendly initiatives like cleanliness drives and tree plantation.
12. Tikona Fort Wildlife Sanctuary
A historic fort turned wildlife sanctuary with a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Historical Significance: Surrounded by the ancient Tikona Fort.
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with numerous plant and animal species.
- Trekking Opportunities: Offers challenging trekking trails to the fort.
13. Visapur Fort Wildlife Sanctuary
A historic fort turned wildlife sanctuary with lush forests and scenic beauty.
- Historical Significance: Surrounded by the ancient Visapur Fort.
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with numerous plant and animal species.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers scenic beauty with its lush green surroundings and vistas of the Sahyadri range.
14. Tala Fort Wildlife Sanctuary
A historic fort turned wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna.
- Historical Significance: Surrounded by the ancient Tala Fort.
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with numerous plant and animal species.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers scenic beauty with its lush green surroundings and vistas of the Sahyadri range.
15. Korigad Fort Wildlife Sanctuary
A historic fort turned wildlife sanctuary with lush forests and scenic beauty.
- Historical Significance: Surrounded by the ancient Korigad Fort.
- Biodiversity: Rich in biodiversity with numerous plant and animal species.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers scenic beauty with its lush green surroundings and vistas of the Sahyadri range.