Machan census: TATR charges Rs4,500, costliest in Vidarbha
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Nagpur: As
nature lovers
vie for the limited spots available in the
machan census
on May 12, some feel the prices should be at par across all locations.
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve
(TATR), being a prime location, commands the highest price at Rs 4,500 per person.
Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve
(NNTR), on the other hand, is charging Rs 2,000 per person. In Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR), the charges are Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,500 per person.
A nature lover, who also does
wildlife photography
, said, "The premium rate for TATR is understandable, but this should not be about making money. This should be about the govt giving a chance to all nature lovers to experience a very unique event. The prices must be made affordable and be the same across the board."
Another difference is that in Tadoba, the Rs 4,500 per person price tag does not come with any add-ons. In NNTR and MTR, selected participants will get dinner, breakfast, and a bottle of water. For Tadoba, participants have to bring their own vegetarian food and bottle.
About the Machan Census in Vidarbha
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The machan census, known officially as Nisarga Anubhav, is a unique participatory initiative that invites citizens to assist in wildlife population estimation. Conducted on the night of Buddha Purnima — often a full moon — the activity involves participants climbing machans (wooden watchtowers) inside the forest, accompanied by a forest guide, and recording animal sightings throughout the night.
In Vidarbha, this event spans across multiple tiger reserves including Tadoba-Andhari, Navegaon-Nagzira, and Melghat. It serves both scientific and outreach purposes — offering valuable data for forest officials while giving nature lovers a rare glimpse into the nocturnal life of the jungle. The experience blends thrill, discipline, and ecological contribution in equal measure.
RATE DIFFERENTIAL
* 'Nisarga Anubhav' held on Buddha Purnima lets nature lovers help in wildlife count from machans
* TATR charges Rs 4,500, highest among all, while NNTR and MTR offer slots at Rs 2,000–3,500
* No add-ons in Tadoba — participants must carry their own food and water
* NNTR and MTR provide meals, including dinner, breakfast, and water to participants
* Wildlife enthusiasts say the census is about experience, not revenue, and call for uniform pricing
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