Madhya Pradesh is a beautiful state having ten national parks with many wild animals, historical sites, and several wildlife sanctuaries. Some of the national parks, like Bandhavgarh, were once used by kings to hunt. Today, people can go on safaris to see the tigers, leopards, deer, and other animals that live in the parks. The parks are also home to a variety of plants and flowers. The scenery in the parks is beautiful, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
National Parks in Madhya Pradesh – Necessary travel information
1. Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park is one of the most popular national parks in India, for good reason. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, barasingha (swamp deer) and a variety of birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with forests, meadows, and rivers.
Location and Area
Kanha National Park is located in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is spread over an area of 940 sq km. It is the biggest National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
What to Expect
Visitors to Kanha National Park can go on jeep safaris, nature walks, or elephant rides to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Kanha National Park include:
- Tiger sightings: Kanha National Park is one of the best places in India to see tigers. The park is home to a large population of tigers, and they are often seen during jeep safaris.
- Barasingha: The barasingha is a unique type of deer that is found only in a few places in India. Kanha National Park is one of the best places to see these majestic creatures.
- Birdwatching: Kanha National Park is home to over 300 species of birds. This makes it a great place for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Stag deer of Bredary Species is exclusively found in this national park in MP, it is called the “jewels of Kanha”. It is also the State animal of Madhya Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kanha National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Kanha National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: The park is located on NH-44, which connects Jabalpur to Nagpur.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Mandla Fort Railway Station, which is located about 25 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is located about 160 km from the park.
Kanha National Park is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in wildlife and nature. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems, Kanha National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
2. Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the most popular national parks in India, and for good reason. It is home to the highest density of tigers in the world, as well as a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling rivers.
Location and Area
Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It has a total area of 445 sq km, including a core area of 105 sq km and a buffer zone of 340 sq km.
What to Expect
Bandhavgarh National Park is a great place to spot tigers, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, sloth bears, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling rivers.
Visitors can go on jeep safaris or nature walks to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of historical monuments, including the Bandhavgarh Fort, which dates back to the 10th century.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Bandhavgarh National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is located about 165 km from the park. The nearest railway station is Umaria Railway Station, which is located about 40 km from the park.
3. Madhav National Park
Madhav National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, India. This National Park in MP was the hunting ground of Mughal Emperors and Maharaja of Gwalior. It is named after Madho Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, nilgai, chinkara, and chital.
Location and Area
Madhav National Park is located in the district of Shivpuri of Madhya Pradesh, about 110 km from the city of Gwalior. The park is spread over an area of 354 sq km
What to Expect
Visitors to Madhav National Park can go on jeep safaris or nature walks to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with hills, valleys, forests, and grasslands.
Some of the key attractions of Madhav National Park include:
- Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar Lakes: These two lakes are located in the southern part of the park and are home to a variety of waterbirds, including geese, ducks, and pochard.
- Madhav Sagar Dam: This dam is located on the Madhav Sagar Lake and is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.
- Bagcha Dam: This dam is located on the Sakhya Sagar Lake and is another popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.
- Madhavgarh Fort: This fort is located on a hilltop overlooking the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Madhav National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Madhav National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: The park is located on NH-25, which connects Gwalior to Jhansi.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Shivpuri Railway Station, which is located about 7 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport, which is located about 110 km from the park.
4. Pench National Park
Pench National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. It is named after the Pench River, which flows through the park. It is being developed as Mowgli land (Rudyard Kipling novel The Jungle Book is based on this forest.) and is one of the most popular national parks in India.
Location and Area
Pench National Park is located in the districts of Seoni and Chhindwara of Madhya Pradesh. Pench National Park is spread over an area of 758 sq km and is about 200 km from the city of Nagpur.
What to Expect
Pench National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with forests, meadows, and rivers.
Visitors to Pench National Park can go on jeep safaris or nature walks to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pench National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Pench National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: Pench National Park is located on NH-44, which connects Nagpur to Jabalpur.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Seoni Railway Station, which is located about 20 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Nagpur Airport, which is located about 200 km from the park.
5. Satpura National Park
Satpura National Park is a beautiful and diverse wildlife sanctuary located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the least crowded national parks in India, making it a great destination for travelers who are looking for a more authentic wildlife experience.
Location and Area
Satpura National Park is spread over an area of 528 sq km and is bordered by the Narmada River to the north and the Tapti River to the south. The park is easily accessible by road, rail, and air.
What to Expect
Satpura National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with forests, meadows, rivers, and waterfalls.
Visitors to Satpura National Park can go on jeep safaris, nature walks, or boat rides to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Satpura National Park include:
- Dhuandhar Falls: This waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Satpura National Park. It is located on the Narmada River and is a beautiful sight to behold.
- Madhai Tawa Lake: This lake is located in the heart of Satpura National Park and is a great place to spot wildlife, including crocodiles, gharials, and birds.
- Bori Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in the southern part of Satpura National Park and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.
- Pachmarhi Hill Station: This hill station is located near Satpura National Park and is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a break from the heat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Satpura National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Satpura National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: The park is located on NH-59, which connects Jabalpur to Bhopal.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Hoshangabad Railway Station, which is located about 25 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is located about 170 km from the park.
6. Panna National Park
Panna National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the Chhindwara and Panna districts of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is spread over an area of 543 sq km and is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with forests, meadows, and rivers. It was designated as a biosphere reserve in 2011.
Location and Area
Panna National Park is located in the central part of India, about 250 km from the city of Jabalpur. The park is easily accessible by road, rail, and air.
What to Expect
Panna National Park is a great place to spot tigers, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, sloth bears, deer, and birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with forests, meadows, and rivers.
Visitors to Panna National Park can go on jeep safaris, nature walks, or boat rides to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Panna National Park include:
- Pandav Falls: This waterfall is located on the Ken River and is a beautiful sight to behold.
- Ken River: This river flows through the park and is a great place to spot wildlife, including crocodiles, gharials, and birds.
- Raneh Falls: This waterfall is located on the Ken River and is a popular spot for picnicking and swimming.
- Madla Fort: This fort is located on a hilltop overlooking the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Panna National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Panna National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: The park is located on NH-39, which connects Jabalpur to Bhopal.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Panna Railway Station, which is located about 7 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, which is located about 75 km from the park.
7. Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar National Park has the unique distinction of being a combination of a National Park, a zoo, a rescue Centre for wild animals, and conservation breeding Centre for selected vital species. It is also one of the few national parks in India that is open to visitors all year round.
Location and Area
Van Vihar National Park, located in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is a unique urban wildlife sanctuary. Spread over an area of 4.45 sq km, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, and birds.
What to Expect
Visitors to Van Vihar National Park can go on jeep safaris, nature walks, or bicycle rides to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Van Vihar National Park include:
- White tiger enclosure: Van Vihar National Park is home to a number of white tigers, which are a rare and endangered species. Visitors to the park can see these majestic creatures up close in their enclosure.
- Lion enclosure: The park also has a lion enclosure, where visitors can see lions in their natural habitat.
- Sloth bear enclosure: Sloth bears are another popular attraction at Van Vihar National Park. Visitors can see these gentle giants up close in their enclosure.
- Butterfly garden: The park also has a butterfly garden, where visitors can see a variety of butterflies fluttering around.
- Birdwatching: Van Vihar National Park is a great place for birdwatching. The park is home to a variety of birds, including peacocks, hornbills, and kingfisher.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Van Vihar National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Van Vihar National Park is well-connected to Bhopal by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Bhopal Airport, which is located about 15 km from the park. The nearest railway station is Bhopal Railway Station, which is located about 5 km from the park.
8. Fossil National Park
Fossil National Park is home to a variety of fossils, including fossilized leaves, fruits, seeds, and trunks of trees. The fossils in the park date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, which were over 150 million years ago.
Location and Area
Fossil National Park is a unique and fascinating park located in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the few national parks in the world that is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting fossils. The park is spread over an area of 7.7 sq km.
What to Expect
Visitors to Fossil National Park can go on nature walks or take a guided tour to learn about the park’s fossils and the ancient world they represent. The park also has a museum, which houses a collection of fossils and other artifacts from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. It has oldest botanical fossils present in Deccan trap.
Some of the key attractions of Fossil National Park include:
- Fossilized tree trunks: The park is home to a number of fossilized tree trunks, which are some of the largest and oldest in the world.
- Fossilized leaves and fruits: The park also has a variety of fossilized leaves and fruits, which provide insights into the ancient flora of the region.
- Museum: The park’s museum houses a collection of fossils and other artifacts from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Fossil National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the park is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
How to Reach
Fossil National Park is well-connected to major cities in Madhya Pradesh by road and rail. The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is located about 200 km from the park. The nearest railway station is Dindori Railway Station, which is located about 15 km from the park.
9. Dinosaur Fossil National Park
Dinosaur Fossil National Park is the 2nd Fossil national park in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the few national parks in the world that is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting dinosaur fossils. The fossils in the Dinosaur Fossil National Park date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, which were over 150 million years ago.
Location and Area
Dinosaur Fossil National Park, also known as Bagh Fossil Park, is a unique park located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The park is spread over an area of 89 sq km and is home to a variety of fossils, including dinosaur bones, eggs, and footprints.
What to Expect
Visitors to Dinosaur Fossil National Park can go on nature walks, take a guided tour, or visit the park’s museum to learn about the park’s fossils and the dinosaurs they represent. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Dinosaur Fossil National Park include:
- Dinosaur eggs: The park is home to a number of dinosaur egg fossils, which are some of the rarest and most well-preserved in the world.
- Dinosaur footprints: The park also has a number of dinosaur footprint fossils, which provide insights into the size and gait of these ancient creatures.
- Museum: The park’s museum houses a collection of dinosaur fossils and other artifacts from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dinosaur Fossil National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the park is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Reach
Dinosaur Fossil National Park is well-connected to major cities in Madhya Pradesh by road and rail. The nearest airport is Indore Airport, which is located about 190 km from the park. The nearest railway station is Bagh Railway Station, which is located about 5 km from the park.
10. Palpur-Kuno National Park
Palpur-Kuno National Park is a beautiful and diverse wildlife sanctuary located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Palpur-Kuno National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, nilgai, chinkara, and chital. The park is also known for its beautiful landscapes, with hills, valleys, forests, and grasslands.
Location and Area
Palpur-Kuno National Park is located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, about 110 km from the city of Gwalior. It is spread over an area of 344 sq km. The park is easily accessible by road, rail, and air.
What to Expect
Visitors to Palpur-Kuno National Park can go on jeep safaris or nature walks to explore the park and see the wildlife. The park also has a number of viewpoints, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Some of the key attractions of Palpur-Kuno National Park include:
- Palpur Fort: This fort is located on a hilltop overlooking the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Kuno River: This river flows through the park and is home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, gharials, and birds.
- Kanji House: This is a historic building that was built by the British in the 19th century.
- Khemcha Lake: This lake is a popular spot for birdwatching.
- Ker kho: This is a natural spring that is located in the park.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Palpur-Kuno National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.
How to Reach
Palpur-Kuno National Park is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air.
- By road: The park is located on NH-25, which connects Gwalior to Jhansi.
- By rail: The nearest railway station is Shivpuri Railway Station, which is located about 7 km from the park.
- By air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport, which is located about 110 km from the park.
All the National Parks are beautiful and diverse wildlife sanctuary that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, These National Parks are must-visit for anyone who is interested in wildlife and nature.
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