Wildlife, National Parks and Forest Reserves in MP

Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the “Heart of India,” is not only rich in cultural heritage and historical monuments but also home to some of the most diverse and vibrant wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the country.

For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers, this central Indian state offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wild in its most pristine form.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the wildlife forests in Madhya Pradesh, from a tourist’s perspective.

Kanha National Park

Famous for its tiger reserve and diverse wildlife, including barasingha.

Overview: Kanha National Park is one of the most famous and well-maintained national parks in India. It spreads across 1945 square kilometers.
Wildlife: Kanha is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and the rare barasingha (swamp deer). The park’s vast meadows, dense sal forests, and streams create an idyllic setting for wildlife.
Tourist Experience: Jeep safaris and guided tours are the best ways to explore the park. The park is divided into four zones – Kisli, Kanha, Mukki, and Sarhi – each offering unique wildlife sightings. The best time to visit is from October to June.

Bandhavgarh National Park

Known for having one of the highest densities of tigers in India.

Overview: With one of the highest densities of tigers in India, Bandhavgarh is a must-visit for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic big cat in its natural habitat. The park spans 1,536 square kilometers, with a core area of 716 square kilometers.
Wildlife: Besides tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to a variety of fauna, including leopards, sambar deer, barking deer, and over 250 species of birds. The park also houses the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, adding a historical element to your visit.
Tourist Experience: Safaris in Bandhavgarh are conducted in three main zones: Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli. The park’s rugged terrain and dense forests provide thrilling wildlife encounters. The best time to visit is between October and June.

Kuno National Park

Overview: Kuno National Park has gained attention as a potential site for the reintroduction of Cheetahs in India. The park’s diverse topography, ranging from grasslands to forests, makes it an ideal habitat for various wildlife species.
Wildlife: Kuno is home to leopards, hyenas, jackals, and the Indian wolf. The park’s rich flora and fauna make it a fascinating destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Tourist Experience: Kuno is relatively off the beaten path, offering a quieter experience compared to other parks. The park’s potential future as a lion habitat adds to its intrigue. The best time to visit is from October to March.

Pench National Park

Inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” with rich flora and fauna.

Overview: Located on the southern border of Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park is another inspiration for “The Jungle Book.” The park is named after the Pench River, which flows through it, creating a diverse ecosystem.
Wildlife: Pench is known for its healthy tiger population, as well as other wildlife like leopards, wild dogs (dhole), Indian bison (gaur), and a wide variety of bird species.
Tourist Experience: Pench offers a mix of jeep safaris and boat safaris, providing different perspectives of the park’s wildlife. The park is divided into two main zones: Turia (in Madhya Pradesh) and Karmajhiri. The best time to visit is from November to May.

Satpura Tiger Reserve

Offers a unique experience with boat safaris, walking safaris, and rich biodiversity.

Overview: Satpura National Park is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of adventure and wildlife. It is less commercialized than other parks, making it ideal for tourists seeking a more intimate experience with nature.
Wildlife: The park is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and the elusive Indian giant squirrel. Satpura’s landscape is rugged, with deep gorges, sandstone peaks, and dense forests, providing a diverse habitat for wildlife.
Tourist Experience: Satpura is unique in that it offers walking safaris, boat safaris, and jeep safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park in different ways. The Denwa Backwater Escape is a popular accommodation option, offering luxury amidst the wilderness. The best time to visit is from October to April.

Panna National Park

Overview: Panna National Park is renowned for its tiger reserve and its stunning landscapes, which include plateaus, gorges, and the majestic Ken River. The park is a vital link in the tiger corridor that stretches across central India.
Wildlife: In addition to tigers, Panna is home to leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, and a wide variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The park is also known for the Panna diamond mines.
Tourist Experience: Jeep safaris are the primary way to explore Panna, with the chance to combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Khajuraho temples. The best time to visit is between November and March.

Madhav National Park

Overview: Madhav National Park, located near Shivpuri, is a lesser-known park but offers a tranquil experience away from the more crowded national parks. The park’s history is intertwined with the Scindia dynasty, and it once served as a royal hunting ground.
Wildlife: The park is home to species such as leopards, nilgai, chinkara, and a variety of waterfowl that thrive around the Sakhya Sagar Lake.
Tourist Experience: Madhav National Park is ideal for tourists looking for a peaceful and less commercialized wildlife experience. The park’s proximity to the royal town of Shivpuri adds to its charm. The best time to visit is from November to February.

Bori Wildlife Sanctuary

Overview: Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve, is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is known for its scenic beauty, with dense forests, rivers, and valleys creating a rich biodiversity.
Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and several species of deer. It also supports a variety of bird species, making it a bird watcher’s delight.
Tourist Experience: Bori offers a more rugged and raw wildlife experience, with less infrastructure than other parks. This makes it ideal for adventurous travelers. The best time to visit is from November to April.

WE INVITE YOU TO EXPLORE MP'S RICH WILDLIFE.