Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (VDTR) is an important emerging tiger conservation landscape of Madhya Pradesh, located across parts of Sagar, Damoh, Narsinghpur and Jabalpur districts. Formerly known as Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, the area was notified as a tiger reserve to strengthen long-term tiger conservation in central India.

Named after Veerangana Rani Durgavati, a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, the reserve combines ecological significance with historical legacy.

Conservation Importance

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve plays a strategic role in:

Expanding tiger habitat beyond traditional reserves

Strengthening wildlife corridors in central India

Protecting large contiguous forest landscapes

Supporting long-term conservation of big cats and prey species

The reserve is managed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department with a strong emphasis on habitat protection, monitoring, and regulated tourism.

Geography & Landscape

The reserve features diverse and expansive terrain, including:

Vast forest plateaus and open woodland

Dry deciduous forest ecosystems

Gentle hills and rocky outcrops

Seasonal rivers, streams, and natural water bodies

This landscape supports wide-ranging wildlife species and provides a natural conservation buffer in central Madhya Pradesh.

Flora & Fauna

Mammals

The reserve supports a variety of wildlife species, including:

Royal Bengal Tiger

Indian Leopard

Sloth Bear

Striped Hyena

Indian Wolf

Sambar, Chital, Nilgai

Wild Boar

Birdlife

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve hosts diverse bird species, particularly forest and grassland birds, such as:

Crested Serpent Eagle

Indian Peafowl

Grey Hornbill

Owls and other raptors

Vegetation

The forest composition mainly includes:

Dry deciduous tree species

Teak and mixed woodland

Natural grass patches supporting herbivores

Native shrubs and medicinal plants

Safari Experience

Wildlife tourism in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve is strictly regulated and conducted only in officially notified core areas, as per Forest Department guidelines.

Visitors experience:

Jeep safaris through protected forest routes

Quiet, low-pressure wildlife exploration

Natural forest landscapes with minimal disturbance

Safaris supervised by trained forest guides

Safaris operate in morning and evening shifts, subject to official notifications.

Safari Zones of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

(Official & Verified from MPOnline Portal)

As per the Forest Department, Madhya Pradesh, safari operations in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve are conducted only in CORE ZONES.

✅ Core Zones of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

Bina Core Zone

Bina is an officially notified core safari zone of Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve. It represents protected forest habitat and plays an important role in wildlife movement and conservation.

Hinoti Core Zone

Hinoti is an officially notified core safari zone, characterised by forested terrain and natural corridors that support wildlife activity within the reserve.

Best Time to Visit

October to February: Pleasant weather and comfortable forest conditions

March to June: Increased wildlife activity near water sources

July to September: Safari operations may be restricted due to monsoon

How to Reach

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve is accessible from multiple towns of central Madhya Pradesh. Visitors are advised to plan travel strictly according to officially notified safari zones and routes, as published by the Forest Department.

Visitor Guidelines & Important Rules

Valid government-issued ID is mandatory for safari entry

Maintain silence inside forest areas

Do not step out of vehicles during safaris

Avoid bright clothing and loud behaviour

Feeding or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited

Follow instructions of forest guides and forest officials at all times

Why Visit Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve?

One of Madhya Pradesh’s largest emerging tiger reserves

Vast and less disturbed forest landscape

Officially regulated core-zone safari experience

High long-term conservation importance

Ideal for serious wildlife and nature enthusiasts

Ideal For

Wildlife and nature enthusiasts

Conservation-focused travellers

Birdwatching and forest exploration

Educational and research visits

Visitors seeking off-beat and authentic forest experiences