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There are many national parks near Bhopal that offer a diverse variety of natural experiences. From lush forests and rolling hills to rich biodiversity, these parks are perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. All national parks near Bhopal provide unique opportunities for wildlife sightings, bird watching, and trekking, making them ideal for a refreshing getaway. This guide highlights ten remarkable national parks and wildlife sanctuaries close to Bhopal, detailing their features, ideal duration, entry fees, and timings for an enriching visit.
10 National Parks Near Bhopal
The top 10 best National Parks near Bhopal are listed below for all travellers not to miss.
1. Satpura National Park
Photo: BSSKrishnaS / Wikimedia Commons
Satpura National Park, located around 140 km from Bhopal, is a sprawling sanctuary known for its diverse wildlife and rugged terrain. It covers an area of 524 square kilometres; the park features dense forests, gorges, and sandstone peaks. Visitors can spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian giant squirrels, and many other wildlife species here. Unique experiences include jeep, walking safaris, and boat rides on the Denwa River. Birdwatching is also popular here, with numerous avian species in residence.
Entry Fee: ₹500 (Indians), ₹1,500 (Foreigners)
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
2. Van Vihar National Park
Photo: Sudheer Pandey / Wikimedia Commons
Van Vihar National Park, situated just 10 km from Bhopal, is a tranquil urban sanctuary spanning 4.45 square kilometres. Established in 1979, it provides a green oasis within the city, hosting wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and deer. The park is well-known for its picturesque lakes and walking trails, which offer a peaceful escape from urban life. Visitors can enjoy serene nature walks and birdwatching opportunities in this easily accessible location. Van Vihar’s proximity to Bhopal makes it a convenient retreat for locals and tourists alike, providing a quick and enjoyable nature experience without leaving the city limits.
Entry Fee: ₹20
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Ideal Duration: Half-day
3. Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Gunjan Saini / Wikimedia Commons
Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 110 km from Bhopal, spans 1,240 square kilometres of protected teak forests. Declared a tiger reserve in 2013, it is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various herbivores like spotted deer. The Denwa River intersects the sanctuary and features ancient rock paintings, adding cultural and historical value. Ratapani is known for its rich biodiversity and offers jeep safaris, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The sanctuary’s vast expanse and varied wildlife make it an excellent destination for experiencing India’s natural beauty and conservation efforts.
Entry Fee: ₹200
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Ideal Duration: 2 days
4. Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
Photo: Dineshnema / Wikimedia Commons
Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, situated around 200 km from Bhopal, covers 492 square kilometres and is known for its rich biodiversity and lush forests. Established in 1999, the reserve is part of the Satpura Range and features diverse landscapes, including cascading waterfalls and serene valleys. It is home to various wildlife species, such as leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species. The reserve offers scenic nature trails and opportunities for wildlife observation, making it ideal for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
Entry Fee: ₹300
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: 2 days
5. Kuno National Park
Photo: M G Chandrasekr / Wikimedia Commons
Kuno National Park, located approximately 340 km from Bhopal, encompasses 748 square kilometres and is a significant site for wildlife conservation. Originally part of the Palpur-Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, it features varied terrains, including hills and grasslands. The park supports a diverse range of species, including leopards, wolves, and hyenas. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, which provide an immersive experience in its rich landscapes. Kuno plays a critical role in wildlife preservation and offers valuable insights into India’s conservation efforts.
Entry Fee: ₹500 (Indians), ₹2,000 (Foreigners)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
6. Madhav National Park
Photo: Chitra2016 / Wikimedia Commons
Madhav National Park, situated around 330 km from Bhopal, spans 354 square kilometres and features a mix of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and scenic water bodies. It is home to species such as chital, nilgai, blackbuck, and leopards, with many migratory birds visiting the park. The park also includes historical sites like George Castle, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. Jeep safaris and birdwatching are popular activities, offering a blend of wildlife observation and historical exploration. The park’s diverse ecosystems and historical significance provide visitors with a unique and enriching experience.
Entry Fee: ₹150 (Indians), ₹2,000 (Foreigners)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
7. Bandhavgarh National Park
Photo: Fitindia / Wikimedia Commons
Bandhavgarh National Park, located around 620 km from Bhopal, is renowned for its high density of Bengal tigers. Covering 1,536 square kilometres, the park also hosts leopards, sloth bears, and over 250 bird species. The park’s varied landscape includes dense sal forests, grasslands, and steep ridges. Bandhavgarh is famous for its ancient Bandhavgarh Fort and prehistoric caves, which feature inscriptions and carvings. Jeep safaris are the primary way to explore the park, offering opportunities to view its rich wildlife and historical sites.
Entry Fee: ₹500 (Indians), ₹2,500 (Foreigners)
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Ideal Duration: 3 days
8. Pench National Park
Photo: Ishani Mehta / Wikimedia Commons
Pench National Park, approximately 350 km from Bhopal, spans 758 square kilometres and inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is renowned for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, leopards, and over 300 bird species. It features a mix of deciduous forests and grasslands, with the Pench River sustaining a rich ecosystem. Visitors can embark on jeep and elephant safaris to explore the park’s diverse habitats and observe its wildlife. The park’s scenic beauty and literary connection add to its appeal, making it a notable destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Entry Fee: ₹1,500
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: 2 days
9. Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Prateek Karandikar / Wikimedia Commons
Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, situated just 15 km from Bhopal, covers 5 square kilometres and is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh. It is home to species such as blackbucks, sambars, and various birds. The sanctuary features trekking trails and panoramic views from the Ralamandal Hilltop, offering excellent opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. Camel rides and safari options enhance the visitor experience. Its proximity to Bhopal makes it an accessible and enjoyable destination for a quick escape into nature, providing a convenient retreat for wildlife enthusiasts.
Entry Fee: ₹60
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: Half-day
10. Sailana Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Harvey Sapir / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sailana Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 130 km from Bhopal, spans 450 square kilometres and was established in 1983. The sanctuary is home to tigers, leopards, and various deer species. It is noted for its rich flora and picturesque landscapes, including dense forests and water bodies. Designated trails provide opportunities for exploration, and the sanctuary’s open year-round accessibility makes it a tranquil retreat for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary’s scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a compelling destination for those seeking a peaceful nature experience.
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Duration: 1 day
The national parks near Bhopal offer diverse experiences for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Each park, from the expansive Satpura National Park to the serene Van Vihar, provides unique opportunities to witness India’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Visitors can partake in thrilling tiger sightings and peaceful nature walks. Book your next trip with TripXL to ensure a smooth journey.
Cover Photo: Suyash Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
