Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is managed as two connected parts: a protected core and a surrounding buffer. Both offer jeep safaris and both can deliver memorable wildlife. They differ in rules, access and character.
Core zones
The core is the reserve’s most strictly protected habitat, about 625 km². It combines the original Tadoba National Park with the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary. Tourist access is regulated through six gates: Moharli, Kolara, Navegaon, Khutwanda, Zari and Pangdi. Core safaris are booked in advance through the Maharashtra Forest Department’s online system, which also offers a limited Tatkal (last-minute) facility for some core safaris.
Buffer zones
The buffer surrounds the core. It is a shared landscape where forest, villages and wildlife meet, and local communities take part in managing tourism. The forest department lists 16 buffer gates.
| Aspect | Core | Buffer |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Strictly protected habitat | Transition landscape shared with communities |
| Tourist gates | 6 | 16 |
| Weekly closure (per the forest department) | Tuesday | Wednesday |
| Booking | In advance, up to 120 days ahead | In advance, up to 120 days ahead |
| Wildlife | Excellent habitat; sightings never guaranteed | Regular wildlife activity; sightings never guaranteed |
Which should you choose?
Core zones are not the only places to see wildlife. Buffer safaris regularly produce good sightings, and combining both is a sound approach for a stay of two nights or more. If core permits are sold out for your dates, a buffer safari is a genuine alternative.
| Your situation | Worth considering |
|---|---|
| Two nights or more | Combining core and buffer safaris |
| Core permits sold out for your dates | A buffer safari as a genuine alternative |
| Travelling at short notice | The limited Tatkal facility for some core safaris, subject to availability |
| Planning ahead | Booking opens up to 120 days ahead, so enquire early for popular dates |
| Choosing days | Core gates close on Tuesdays and buffer gates on Wednesdays, per the forest department |
Permits are issued by the Maharashtra Forest Department, and rules, quotas and availability change with the season and by official notice. Read our safari booking guide or browse the safari gates and zones. Season also matters: see the best time to visit Tadoba, and see how a trip fits together in our safari packages.
Core vs buffer questions
Is a core safari better than a buffer safari in Tadoba?
Neither is guaranteed to show you a tiger. The core is the most strictly protected habitat, while buffer safaris regularly produce good sightings too. Many visitors combine both.
How many gates are there in the core and buffer?
Six core gates and sixteen buffer gates, as listed by the forest department. See Tadoba safari gates and zones for the names.
Which zone is open on which day?
According to the forest department, core gates are closed on Tuesdays and buffer gates on Wednesdays. Check official notices close to your dates.
Not sure which zone suits you? Tell us your dates and we will suggest a mix and check availability. An enquiry does not reserve a permit.