Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary

A forest that is the abode of legendary monuments of Ajanta and Ellora caves should be a must on your itinerary. It is this forest that Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks took to when hunting for a site to build viharas and temples. In what is now a part of a reserved forest, Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary is named after Gautam Rishi, an Indian monk. A temple inside the sanctuary is dedicated to him. The forest also houses a protected monument of Antur Fort that was built by the Marathas a few centuries ago. Gautala is mainly a deciduous forest and hence is characterised by large foliage. During the dry summer season, trees become leafless and its barks shiny enough to reflect sunlight. Hence, monsoons and winters are ideal to visit this natural heritage. Reptiles such as cobras and kraits are plenty. Locals also swear of spotting big cats like tigers and leopards and pray animals such as deers. If you keep to the highway though, it is the langurs you need to be careful of. They are not afraid of humans and can rattle pedestrians. So, be watchful on that hike to Sita Nanhi or Mhaisghat viewpoints or the Sitakhori waterfalls that are a few kilometres inside from the gate. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species.

Keep in mind that the main road cutting across the sanctuary is a thoroughfare for residents of nearby villages and traffic increases as the day progresses. To make the most of your visit, enter the premises by 7 am and drive at your own pace. The sanctuary is about 70 km north from Aurangabad.