The Nature Experience Programme 2024 is scheduled to take place on Buddha Purnima, falling on May 23, within the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. On this night, nature enthusiasts will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wilderness and witness the wonders of nature up close. Over 60 watchtowers have been erected across the forests of the protected areas at Koyna and Chandoli within the tiger reserve for this event.
This year, the Sahyadri Tiger Project has initiated the Nature Experience Programme with the aim of allowing the general public to connect with nature, relish the natural habitat of wild animals and birds, and embrace the serene atmosphere of the forest under the moonlit sky on Buddha Purnima night. While wildlife in this region has been monitored using camera traps over the past few years, the Nature Experience Programme seeks to offer firsthand encounters with wildlife to the public.
Given the current summer season, watchtowers have been strategically placed near water bodies established for wildlife. To participate, interested individuals can visit www.mahaforest.gov.in and complete the provided Google form with their details. It is requested that all completed forms be submitted by noon on May 20.
The terms and conditions for participating in the Nature Experience Programme are outlined alongside the application form. It's important to note that applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Participants are informed by the Tiger Reserve Office that they can occupy the platforms and observe wild animals from the night of May 23 until 8am the following morning.
The participation fee for adults is set at ₹1000, while it's ₹500 for children.
