Places to Visit in Sakoli, Bhandara, Maharashtra
Here’s a curated guide to the best places to visit in and around Sakoli (Bhandara district) — perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, heritage seekers, and cultural explorers:
1. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary (~22 km)
-
Part of the Nawegaon–Nagzira Tiger Reserve, this dense teak forest offers jeep safaris to spot tigers, leopards, gaurs, sambar, chital, and over 160 bird species
-
Safari timings vary seasonally; early booking advised.
2. Koka Wildlife Sanctuary (~30 km)
-
A 92 km² reserve home to tiger, leopard, sloth bear, sambar, nilgai, wild dog, and migratory Siberian birds at its lake in winter .
-
Visitable year-round sunrise to sunset.
3. Gondumari & Bondgaon Villages
-
Gondumari Palace (~10 km): Trace the heritage of the Gond Umbari Zamindars.
-
Bondgaon: Located along the Chulbhand River; hosts fairs (Chaitra-Pournima / Ashvin Shuddha 9) honoring Goddess Gangajumna Devi
4. Lakes, Forests & Waterfalls
-
Gandhari Dam near Sakoli offers boating and lakeside relaxation
-
Numerous small lakes, reservoirs, and forest ponds around Sakoli create scenic spots for weekend strolls
-
Forest hills nearby (e.g., Girola) are perfect for nature walks and sunset views .
5. Religious & Heritage Sites
-
Stroll through the town’s local Durga, Ganesh, Buddha Vihar, mosque temples — rich in cultural harmony
-
A small Shiva temple near Koka sanctuary recently restored in Bhandara city is worth a detour
6. Bhandara District Highlights (~30–60 km away)
-
Ambagarh & Pavni Forts: Heritage hill forts with panoramic views
-
Tumsar & Sangadi: Traditional Hindu temples and rural fairs
-
Sawanthari & Tumsar Lakes: Ideal for boating and birdwatching
Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Early AM | Safari at Nagzira or Koka Sanctuary |
| Mid-morning | Explore Gondumari Palace and Bondgaon village |
| Lunch | Lakeside picnic by Gandhari Dam |
| Afternoon | Nature walk/hill visit around Sakoli |
| Evening | Local temple visits in Sakoli town |
Travel Tips
-
Best Season:
-
Oct–Mar: Pleasant weather for safaris and strolls
-
Jun–Sep: Lush, green monsoons—excellent for birding and waterfalls
-
-
Transport:
-
Sakoli is on NH-6; ideal base for road trips.
-
Jeep safaris need advance booking through forest department.
-
-
Stay Options:
-
Wildlife lodges near Nagzira/Koka
-
Local guesthouses or simple stays in Sakoli/Bhandara town
-
-
Essentials:
-
Binoculars, camera, sun/bug protection, sturdy shoes, water, and snacks.
-