Maharashtra - Hills and Forest

Bor Tiger Reserve Safari Guide

LocationWardha and Nagpur districts, Maharashtra
AreaAbout 138 sq km core
EstablishedTiger reserve 2014
Famous forSmall, uncrowded reserve close to Nagpur

Bor is one of India’s smallest tiger reserves, and one of the easiest to reach. It sits just over an hour from Nagpur, around the Bor dam, and is part of the forest corridor that links Pench, Tadoba and Melghat.

Because it’s small and little known, Bor offers something rare: a tiger reserve where you can enjoy unhurried drives without a queue of vehicles.

In this guide
  1. Overview
  2. Quick facts
  3. Why visit Bor
  4. Wildlife in Bor
  5. Bor safari zones
  6. Safari types and timings
  7. How to book a Bor safari
  8. Best time to visit Bor
  9. How to reach Bor
  10. Where to stay
  11. Suggested itinerary
  12. Tips from our safari team
  13. Packages
  14. Photos
  15. FAQs

Bor quick facts

Why visit Bor?

Bor is ideal for a short trip from Nagpur, or as a quiet extra day on a Pench or Tadoba itinerary. Tigers are present and sightings have been improving.

Wildlife in Bor

Despite its size, Bor supports a good range of animals.

Tiger

Bor has a small but established tiger population that moves through the wider corridor.

Leopard

Leopards are seen regularly.

Deer and antelope

Sambar, chital, nilgai and four horned antelope.

Birds

The Bor reservoir attracts waterbirds, especially in winter.

Bor safari zones

Safaris in Bor run from a small number of gates around the reserve.

Bor core

Dry deciduous forest and the area around the Bor dam.

Buffer areas

Quieter routes on the edges of the reserve.

Safari types and timings

Jeep safaris run in morning and afternoon shifts. The road network is compact, so you can cover most of the core in a single drive.

How to book a Bor safari

Safari permits for Bor are issued by the Maharashtra Forest Department, with a fixed number of vehicles allowed in each zone and shift. You can also arrange entry directly with the Forest Department.

Permits are usually easy to get, which makes Bor good for spontaneous plans.

If you’d rather not deal with portals, zone choices and timings yourself, we can plan the trip and apply for permits on your behalf, then arrange your stay, vehicle and guide. Government fees are charged at actuals and our service charges are listed separately in your quote, so you always know what you’re paying for. See our Cancellation and Refund Policy.

Best time to visit Bor

October to February

Comfortable and green, with good birding at the reservoir.

March to June

Hot and dry, better for mammals near water.

July to September

Monsoon closure for core areas.

How to reach Bor

By air

Nagpur Airport is about 60 to 70 km away.

By train

Wardha and Nagpur are the nearest stations.

By road

Around 1.5 hours from Nagpur.

Where to stay near Bor

There are a few lodges and Forest Department stays near Bor. Many visitors also stay in Nagpur and drive in for the day.

Suggested Bor itinerary

Here’s a simple plan that works for most first time visitors. We’ll tailor it to your dates and interests.

  1. Day 1: Drive from Nagpur and take an afternoon safari.
  2. Day 2: Morning safari, then continue to Tadoba or Pench.

Tips from our safari team

  • Use Bor as a quiet warm up before Tadoba or Pench.
  • Visit the reservoir edge in winter for birds.
  • Easy for a day trip if you’re short on time.
  • Wear muted greens, browns or khaki, and skip perfume. Bright colours and strong smells can disturb animals.
  • Carry your original photo ID. It must match the name on your permit.
  • Keep your voice low and never ask the driver to go off the track or crowd an animal.

Bor packages

Ready made trips you can book as they are or adjust to your dates. Prices are confirmed in a written, itemised quote.

See all safari packages ⟶

Photos of Bor

Bor safari FAQs

How far is Bor Tiger Reserve from Nagpur?

About 60 to 70 km, around an hour and a half by road.

Is Bor good for tiger sightings?

Tigers are present and sightings have been improving, but Bor is best enjoyed as a quiet, uncrowded reserve.

Can I combine Bor with Tadoba?

Yes. Bor fits well into a Nagpur based trip with Tadoba or Pench.

Is Bor one of the smallest tiger reserves?

Yes, its core area is one of the smallest among India's tiger reserves.

Is Eagle Safaris the official booking website for Bor?

No. Eagle Safaris is a private travel company. Permits for Bor are issued by the Maharashtra Forest Department. We plan your trip and can apply on your behalf, with our service charges shown separately.

ES

About this guide. Written by the Eagle Safaris planning team, based in Ramnagar at the edge of Jim Corbett. Our 11 safari advisors have helped more than 10,000 guests plan wildlife trips over 12 years. Park rules, fees and opening dates change, so always check the latest details with the Forest Department or with us before you travel.

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Independent private travel company. Not the official website of any Forest Department or government body. Permits can also be booked on official portals. Our service charges are shown separately. Read more