Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary (Kannad) is a natural reserve that encompasses a 26,062 hectares area. It was declared as a sanctuary in 1956 by the Maharashtra government. It is a tropical dry deciduous forest, home to diverse wild animal species, reptiles and birds. The same as plants are highly prized for their medicinal properties. The main  attraction remains Leopard, Nilgai, Sloth bears, Wild boar, wild cat.

Districts/Region

Tahsil: Kannad, District: Aurangabad, State: Maharashtra

History

The name Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary got its name from the town of Gautala, a few KM from the city. It is one of the most beautiful sanctuaries in the country. It was established in 1986 when the government declared this as a reserved site on the existing flora and fauna.  There is an abundance of drought-resistant trees like Anjan, Khair, Dhawada. The river valleys support moist vegetation that is famous for the diversification of sandalwood and Arjuna trees. Regardless, the vegetation is well-suited for migratory birds.
In the valleys close to the rivers grow more humid species such as Terminalia Arjuna, usually known as Arjun, a native tree from which the silkworm feeds, being the key to the textile industry of India. Among its most rich trees, there are solid and medium measured trees, for example, Anjan, Khair, Dhawada, out of which tannins and ghatti gum have industrial use. The normal vegetation incorporates euphorbia spp, an exceptionally toxic plant, the latex of its trunk can be utilized in the production of paints and other industrial items. 
In the valleys near the waterways develop more sticky species like Terminalia Arjuna, generally known as Arjun, a local tree from which the silkworm feeds, being the key in the textile business of India. Also, it has clinical impacts to control the blood pressure, asthma and cardiovascular system, same as insects bites and poisoning among different conditions. 
Another species abiding here is the sandalwood or Chandan tree, an aromatic tree from which medicinal oils and essences are regularly extricated and utilized for ritual purposes, equivalent to in the perfume business.
The mammals here comprise chinkara, sloth bears, bats, wild boars, jungle cats, monkeys, civet cats, barking deer, fox, jackal, langur, leopard, nilgai, wolf, etc. There are more than 250 species of birds here. The important migratory ones include cranes, spoonbills, stork, ibis, pochards and other species of waders. Peafowl is much found here with flightless birds like quail, partridge, jungle fowl. The reptiles include snakes, cobra, krait, keelback viper, python, rat snake and monitor lizards etc.
 

Geography

It is in the Ajantha, and Sathmala hill ranges on the Sahyadris. This sanctuary is also known as the Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary and the Gautala Abahayaranya. It is about 72 KM from Aurangabad city.

Weather/Climate

Things to do

The sanctuary offers activities such as rock climbing, trekking, and nature study camps for adventure lovers. Jungle survival camps are also organized for the students. One has to take prior permission from the forest officers and take a guide who is familiar with the area and seek information from him. Littering and lighting campfires is prohibited.

Nearest tourist places

An ancient temple dedicated to Parvati, called Patna Devi attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Navratra and Chaitra festivals. Maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, the temple is one of the most touristy places nearby.
Gautala sanctuary has some Buddhist cave temples which attract visitors across the nation. 
Antur Fort is one of the important monuments near the sanctuary that is located about 2,700 feet high. It was built by the Marathas in the 15th century and is known for the remains of the fortification. There are doorways and a dargah along with a carved inscription dating back to the period of Nizam Shah is something to be cherished.

Special food speciality and hotel

Naan Qualia is a famous cuisine, ‘naan’ is a kind of bread made from the tandoor, over a hot furnace, the ‘qalia’ is a spicy concoction of mutton. In addition Jhunkas, Pitlas, Chutney, Thecha and Thalipeeth are some of the other well-known food items served in the nearby vicinity of the sanctuary.

Accommodation facilities nearby & Hotel/ Hospital/Post Office/Police station

The forest guest houses at Bhambarwadi and Puranvadi are available on prior booking. In addition to this, In the nearby vicinity of the sanctuary, there are a  number of hotels and resorts available.

Visiting Rule and Time, Best month to visit

Visitors find the months between January and March as the most perfect time to visit the Sanctuary. The winter is at its peak and the climate is moderate during this time. Longer excursions are often held during this time for the students.

Language spoken in area 

English, Hindi and Marathi.