Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary

Location: Chalisgaon, state Highway, Kannad, Maharashtra 431103
Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary, also known as Gautala Abhayarana Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve near the village of Gautala in the state of Maharashtra. The sanctuary was established in the year 1986 by the government of India as a protected reserve for wildlife. It is a south tropical dry deciduous forest within the Western Ghats with differing terrains. The sanctuary is situated amidst dense foliage and widespread grasslands with a thriving population of flora that provides nourishment to a multitude of animal species.
The name of the sanctuary is coined after its neighboring village of Gautala which in its turn was coined after Gautam Rishi. The sanctuary, which spans accross an area of 26061 hectare, is laden with waterfalls and several fresh water-bodies that can be observed in abundance especially during the monsoon months. Amongst waterfalls, another source of water in the sanctuary is Gautala Talab, which is a lake situated inside the sanctuary. Besides richly abundant wildlife within Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary, other attractions include some of the oldest specimens of rock-cut cave temples in India. These rock cute cave temples, otherwise known as Pitalkhora are located inside the Sanctuary’s premises and are abundant in data for archeological study.

Climatic Conditions

Summers in Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary bring heavy daylight and hot temperatures ranging between 37 degrees and 21 degrees Celsius. Summers in the region usually last between the months of March and May. Between November and February, temperatures fall to a minimum of 10 degree Celsius. The winters are pleasant and have predictable weather conditions. Monsoons see extensive rains and usually last between the months of June and September. The plants get a chance to rejuvenate and repopulate during this period the most.

Wildlife at Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary

The sanctuary is an abode for a number of Animals species including big cats and primates. Avian species thrive in the foliage and around 230 separate species of birds can be spotted in the region. Some of the wild animals that dominate the greens of Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary are listed below.

Best time to visit:

The months between January and March are the most ideal time to visit the Sanctuary. The climate is moderate and winter is at its peak. Longer excursions are possible during this time and the journey is easier to make.

Nearby hotels to rest and dine in:

Hotels:
- MTDC Gautala Forest Lodge (within the sanctuary).
- Sun n Sand Holiday Resort (near Chalisgaon).
- Hotel Sai Palace (budget-friendly, Chalisgaon).
Restaurants:
- Hotel Sai Palace Restaurant (Indian cuisine).
- Shree Samarth Restaurant (Maharashtrian cuisine).
- Hotel Gajanan Maharaj Bhojanalaya (pure vegetarian).

Travelling options:

- By road: 1.5-hour drive from Aurangabad via NH61.
- By train: Chalisgaon Railway Station, 5 km from the sanctuary.

Tips for First-time Visitors:

- Carry essentials: Comfortable shoes, clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, water.
- Respect the wildlife: Maintain silence, avoid littering, follow designated pathways.
- Guided tours: Opt for nature walks or jeep safaris.

Additional Information:

- Diverse wildlife: Leopards, sloth bears, chital deer, birds.
- Rich plant life: Teak, bamboo, medicinal herbs.
- Activities: Birdwatching, photography, nature walks.