Madhya Pradesh, known as the "Heart of India," is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise boasting rich biodiversity and stunning national parks. From tiger safaris to birdwatching, the state offers unforgettable encounters with nature and exotic fauna.

 

1. Kanha National Park

Why visit: One of India’s largest tiger reserves, famous for its thriving Bengal tiger population and diverse wildlife.

Highlights: – Jeep safaris – Spotting tigers, leopards, and barasingha – Lush sal and bamboo forests

Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Safari timings)

Entry: ₹1,000–₹2,500 per safari

Photo by ashish upadhyay on Unsplash

 

2. Bandhavgarh National Park

Why visit: Known for having one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers, along with rich history and scenic landscapes.

Highlights: – Tiger sightings – Ancient Bandhavgarh Fort – Birdwatching opportunities

Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Safari timings)

Entry: ₹1,200–₹3,000 per safari

Photo by Debjoy Biswas on Unsplash

 

3. Pench National Park

Why visit: The inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” this park is rich in wildlife and lush greenery.

Highlights: – Tigers, leopards, and sloth bears – Elephant safaris – Bird diversity

Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Safari timings)

Entry: ₹800–₹2,000 per safari

Photo by Sagar Paranjape on Unsplash

 

4. Satpura National Park

Why visit: Offers offbeat jungle experiences with trekking, canoeing, and jeep safaris amidst dense forests.

Highlights: – Trekking trails – River safaris – Sightings of tigers and gaurs

Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Safari timings)

Entry: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per safari

 

5. Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve

Why visit: A scenic hill station with rich biodiversity including leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species.

Highlights: – Nature walks – Waterfalls and caves – Birdwatching and butterfly spotting

Timing: Open year-round

Entry: Free

 

6. Bori Wildlife Sanctuary

Why visit: Part of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and deer species.

Highlights: – Dense forests – Quiet trekking routes – Diverse fauna

Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry: ₹50–₹100

 

7. Madhav National Park

Why visit: Known for its varied wildlife and the historic Sakhya Sagar Dam, offering serene landscapes.

Highlights: – Spotted deer and blackbucks – Birdwatching – Boating near the dam

Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry: ₹50

 

8. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

Why visit: Located near the Gandhi Sagar Dam, this sanctuary offers diverse habitats and wildlife sightings.

Highlights: – Tigers and leopards – Fishing and boating nearby – Peaceful forest environment

Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry: ₹50

 

9. Kamala National Park

Why visit: A lesser-known park with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for peaceful wildlife experiences.

Highlights: – Tiger sightings – Bird diversity – Quiet trekking trails

Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry: ₹50

 

Feature Image:- Photo by Prateek Srivastava on Unsplash