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About Nawegaon National Park
The
Navegaon National Park located in Navegoan, Gondia is
one of the most popular forest resorts in the Vidarbha region. The
Park is spread over an area of 135 sq kms. A picturesque 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 series of
winding trails. Strategically located, 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 interesting legend about Navegaon Lake. Kolu Patel Kohli
created the lake at the beginning of the 18th century. He is now
defined as "Kolasur Deo" and his shrine is on one of the peaks
surrounding the lake. The seven peaks surrounding the lake are known
as the "Sat Bahini" or seven sisters. It is believed that these
deities helped Kolu in building the lake. On the fringe of the lake is
an idol of Hanuman, the deity of strength, whose feet are said to go
below the embankment.
The island in the middle of the lake is known as "Maldonger" and was
used by the villagers as a refuge from the marauding 'Pindaris' (A
tribe of professional robbers). The area around the lake is known as
the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, in memory of the noted
ornithologist. Best time to visit this sanctuary is between October to
June and every winter, the Navegaon Lake becomes the home to huge
flocks of migrating ducks and the misty winter mornings are
characterized by their loud calls.
Flora :
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 recorded in Maharashtra are visible at
Navegaon. The experience and the excitement of having spotted the
scarlet minivet, a paradise fly catcher or the sapphire blue flash of
 a
kingfisher skimming the surface of the lake for fish is quite out of
the world.
Fauna :
Though Navegaon is better known as a bird sanctuary, a number of wild
animals could also be sighted. 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 stroll through
the beautiful 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 :
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).
For More Tourist Information :
Entry Timings: 4.00 am to 7.00 pm. During the rest hour's entry in the
national park is strictly prohibited.
Weather :
Temperatures are pleasant all year round.
How To Get There :
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 |
