Yaval Wildlife Sanctuary covers 177 square kilometres of dry deciduous forest in the hills north of Jalgaon, about 60 km from town. The sanctuary protects leopard, sloth bear, sambar, nilgai, and a range of smaller predators in a landscape of teak and mixed forest that is less-visited than the better-known parks further south. It offers a quieter alternative to the crowds at Tadoba or Pench for those willing to take the time.
Birdwatching is particularly rewarding here, with species typical of the Deccan and Satpura zones including grey junglefowl, Indian pitta, and a range of raptors. Entry is via the sanctuary office at Yaval town; forest department guides are available and required for walks into the core zone. The best season runs from October to May; the monsoon closes most tracks from June through September.