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Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary forms a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its diverse flora and fauna, this sanctuary is set amidst the larger category of Satpura Tiger Reserve, wherein a visitor can explore emerald-like forests, spot rare wild animals and nature’s virgin beauty. Whether a wildlife photographer or a trekker, Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to be. This blog covers everything you need to know about Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary — from sanctuary timings to activities and popular tourist destinations near the sanctuary.
Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary Location
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Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. It forms part of the much larger Satpura Tiger Reserve, extending into unbroken dense forests and hills. It is a hotbed of tigers, leopards, deer, and many species of birds. Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the village of Madhai and is considered the main point of entry for visitors. Surrounded by rivers and hills, this sanctuary offers panoramic landscapes and an atmosphere of serenity.
How To Reach Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Air: The nearest airport to Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is Raja Bhoj International Airport, Bhopal, which is about 150 kilometres away from the sanctuary. To get to the location from the airport, you can take a bus or rent a cab.
By Bus: There are regular bus services between Bhopal and Hoshangabad, the nearest central town to the sanctuary. One can reach the location from Hoshangabad by using a taxi or a local bus to reach the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary location.
By Rail: Itarsi, about 70 km from Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary, has the nearest railway station. The place is well connected with major towns like Bhopal, Jabalpur, and Delhi. On arrival, one can hire a cab or take a bus from Itarsi.
Places To Visit And Around Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary
The Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about its natural beauty. Several attractions in and around the sanctuary offer a wholesome experience to visitors. Here are some must-visit places:
1. Satpura National Park
Photo: Suvro Banerjee / Wikimedia Commons
Satpura National Park is a vast area of 524 square kilometres adjoining the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary. It represents one of the most biodiverse regions in India, rivalling the best in Asia, and includes tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and several species of deer. With its undulating topography and waterfalls amidst dense forests, this park forms one of the most ideal nature treks and safaris. This is the place where wildlife enthusiasts go in search of the sight of the majestic tiger or enjoy the serene beauty created by the unique flora and fauna of the park.
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹500 for Indians, ₹1500 for foreign nationals
2. Tawa Dam
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Tawa Dam is possibly the most exquisite place considering still water and nature’s beauty; it lies about 30 kilometres from Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary. Primarily, the Tawa River and its dam supply water to nearby places; however, local tourists also flock there for boating and picnicking. The surrounding environment is exceptionally tranquil during sunset, making it an ideal place for a quiet retreat. The area is perfect for birdwatching and photography, and the dam’s site presents a breathtaking panoramic vista of surrounding hills and forests.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for the public; boat safari charges extra
3. Pachmarhi Hill Station
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Pachmarhi is one of the popular hill stations in the Satpura range. With its fantastic climate, pleasing lush green valleys, and prehistoric caves, Pachmarhi is about 80 km from Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary and works as a flawless budget destination for adventure enthusiasts or people who are on the hunt to spend some laid-back time in nature. It has various famous tourist spots: Bee Falls, Jata Shankar Caves, and Dhoopgarh, the highest point in Madhya Pradesh. Adventure lovers often trek, go rock climbing, and camp in the region, while families and couples find its atmosphere serene.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free, but specific attractions may have entry fees
4. Denwa River Backwaters
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The Denwa River backwaters, lying near Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary, span a tranquil water body for connecting oneself with nature. The riverbanks are teeming with flora and fauna. For these reasons, this is an excellent spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Visitors enjoy the scenic boat rides over the silent waters that offer great views of the surrounding forests and hills. It makes for a great spot in terms of photography, especially in the golden hour of sunrise and sunset, where the light reflects off the water.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
5. Forsyth Point
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Forsyth Point is a popular viewpoint in the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary. The site has been named after a British officer, Captain James Forsyth, who is believed to have discovered the beauty of this region. It provides a striking panoramic view of the sanctuary and the deep Satpura hills. This vantage point is particularly sought during sunrise and sunset when the landscape is bathed in golden light. It’s excellent for photography, trekking, and soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Included in the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary ticket price
Where To Stay
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Accommodation near Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury eco-lodges. Popular options include the Madhai Resort, Satpura Retreat, and Denwa Backwater Escape. Each of these provides a comfortable stay amidst nature with amenities like guided safaris and birdwatching tours. Most accommodations are situated close to the sanctuary gate, making it convenient for early morning safaris.
Where To Eat
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There are limited but decent dining options available near Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary. Most lodges and resorts offer their own in-house dining, serving Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines. If you are exploring nearby towns, you will find local dhabas and small eateries offering traditional Madhya Pradesh food like poha, dal bafla, and rogan josh. You can also rely on small tea stalls around the sanctuary for a quick snack or refreshment.
Best Time To Visit Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary
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The best time to visit Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high due to the moderate temperatures. Summers can be extremely hot, making wildlife safaris challenging. Monsoons are also not ideal, as the sanctuary remains closed from June to September. The post-monsoon season brings the lush greenery back to life, making it a delightful time for nature lovers.v You should also be aware of the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary timings.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
A typical weekend trip to Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary can cost anywhere between ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per person, depending on your choice of accommodation, safari packages, and transportation.
Tips For Travellers
- Book your safaris in advance as slots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Carry lightweight, comfortable clothing and a good pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting.
- Respect wildlife and avoid littering inside the sanctuary.
- Don’t forget to carry a camera for the perfect Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary photos.
- Always keep the Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary contact number handy in case of emergencies.
Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary is an enchanting getaway for anyone seeking to reconnect with nature. With its diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and peaceful environment, it offers a complete package for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. From Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary’s picturesque surroundings to wildlife spotting opportunities, this sanctuary is a must-visit. Book your trip to Madhai Wildlife Sanctuary now with TripXL and make unforgettable memories amidst nature’s bounty.
Cover Photo: Leon Aschemann / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
