PANNA NATIONAL PARK









Here’s an updated guide to Panna National Park in Madhya Pradesh:

Overview

  • Location & Size: Spanning ~543 km² across Panna and Chhatarpur districts, located in the Vindhya Range and along the Ken River 

  • Established: Declared wildlife sanctuary in 1981, became a National Park in 1994, and a Tiger Reserve in 1997

  • Awards: Honored with the Ministry of Tourism’s “Best Maintained National Park of India” in 2007 

Wildlife Highlights

  • Tigers: Poaching nearly wiped out the population in 2009, but reintroduction efforts have led to recovery; estimates report up to 80 tigers .

  • Other Mammals: Leopards, dholes, wolves, sloth bears, chital, sambar, nilgai, chinkara, porcupine, and more 

  • Birdlife: Over 200 species—eagles, vulture species, kingfishers, grey hornbills, bar-headed geese 

  • Reptiles: Crocodiles (gharial and mugger) thrive along the Ken River .


Safari & Activities

  • Jeep Safaris: Core areas (Madla, Hinouta) and buffer zones (Akola, Jinna); limited vehicles per shift .

  • Boat Safaris: Along Ken River—excellent for crocodile and kingfisher sightings 

  • Night Safaris & Walks: Night/Guerilla safaris available; guided nature walks and interpretation centre tours .

  • Waterfall Visits: Trek to Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls for scenic and spiritual appeal .


Best Time to Visit & Timing

  • Season: October–June; winter (Nov–Feb) cool and pleasant, summer (Mar–Jun) raises tiger sighting chances near water 

  • Monsoon: Park closed mid‑June–Sept, but buffer zones and waterfalls are open and lush 

  • Safari Timing:

    • Morning: ~06:00–11:30

    • Evening: ~15:00–18:00

    • Night: post‑evening safari in specific zones 


Entry & Pricing

  • Jeep Safari Costs: For Indians ~₹1 500–2 000 pp (core), ~₹8 000–9 000 full jeep; Foreigners ~₹2 500–3 000 pp (core), ~₹12 000–14 000 full jeep .

  • Booking: Online recommended via the official MP Forest site or gate, up to 120 days in advance 

  • Limits: Maximum ~20 jeeps per shift in core zones, plus mandatory ID and guide .


Conservation & Character

  • Renowned Comeback: Tiger reintroduction regarded as a conservation success—now home to about 60–80 wild tigers 

  • Genetic Strength: New tigers show genetic diversity from multiple relocation sources, including a notable male, “P243”, weighing 228 kg 


How to Reach & Stay

  • Air: Khajuraho Airport ~25 km away; flights from major cities .

  • Train: Satna (~70 km), Khajuraho station nearby; connected by road via bus/taxi 

  • Road: Well-connected by road; base options include Panna town, Madla-zone lodges, or Khajuraho.

  • Accomodation: Range from forest rest houses to lodges near Madla and Khajuraho.


Summary Table

FeatureDetails
Why VisitThriving tiger reserve, fewer crowds, waterway safaris, scenic waterfalls
Best TimeNov–Feb (cool), Mar–Jun (wildlife hotspots near water)
Core ZonesMadla, Hinouta (jeep safari) + buffer zones (Akola, Jinna)
ActivitiesJeep/boat/night safaris, nature walks, waterfall visits
Booking TipsReserve online in advance, carry ID, book safari + lodge early

If you’d like help with safari booking, lodge recommendations, or planning a side trip to the Khajuraho temples





 

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M.P. TOURISM HOTELS AND RESORTS

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