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Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is a retreat to Nature in silent sullenness. It was established in the name of Rani Durgavati, a courageous queen of the Gond Dynasty, besides carrying other attributes of rich forests, varied fauna, and serene surroundings. It intensely protects an area of 562 square kilometres of dense forest, offering an apt space to nature lovers, photographers, and adventure-seekers. If you are looking forward to an offbeat destination, Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is among the must-visit places.
Location
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Spread over the Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh. The Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is an abode of scenic beauty and natural wonder. Being tagged as part of the Satpura ranges, it contains varieties of flora and fauna that combine to create such breathtaking scenery. The sanctuary stands amidst the Bargi Dam and Satpura hills, adding to its allure for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike.
How To Reach Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Air: The nearest airport to the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is Jabalpur Airport, about 35 kilometres away. Taxis are available at the airport, or one can take a public vehicle to reach there.
By Bus: Regular bus services are available from Jabalpur and Mandla to the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary. Buses run by the Madhya Pradesh State Transport Department and private operators provide easy travel options. The sanctuary is an hour’s drive away from Jabalpur by bus.
By Rail: The closest railway station to Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is Jabalpur Railway Station, which is about 30 km away. Internal taxis, buses, and local transport are available from Jabalpur onwards.
Places To Visit Near Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary
Here is the list of places to visit around Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary adding onto your wildlife adventure:
1. Bargi Dam
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Bargi Dam is the most incredible structure built across the Narmada River, near the famous Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary. The Bargi Dam forms a vital part of the hydroelectric project and stands out as one of the most sought-after tourist places. Water activities available to amuse visitors include speed boating, paddle boating, and cruising. Undoubtedly, it is a favourite spot for families and adventure-loving tourists.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
2. Kanha National Park
Photo: Davidvraju / Wikimedia Commons
About a hundred kilometres from the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, the Kanha National Park forms one of India’s most famous tiger reserves. It hosts many wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, and barasinghas or swamp deer. Kanha’s topography is lovely, with its grassy meadows, dense forests, and undulating hills, making the safari experience truly unforgettable. Jeep and elephant safaris enable visitors to tour the park and get a glimpse of animals in their natural habitat.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM, 3 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹250 per person (Indian), ₹1,500 per person (Foreigner)
3. Madan Mahal Fort
Photo: Vizzee / Wikimedia Commons
Madan Mahal Fort is an ancient structure perched on a rocky hill, just a short drive from Jabalpur. Built in the 11th century by Raja Madan Singh, the fort offers visitors a glimpse into India’s rich history and architectural prowess. The fort’s architecture includes secret passages, war rooms, and a small reservoir. History enthusiasts will find this place fascinating, while adventure seekers can enjoy hiking to the top of the fort.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: None
4. Marble Rocks, Bhedaghat
Photo: Anshikasjv12 / Wikimedia Commons
The Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, located around 25 kilometres from Jabalpur, is a stunning natural formation on the banks of the Narmada River. These towering cliffs of marble, rising to 100 feet, create a striking contrast against the emerald waters of the river. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride through the narrow gorge, which is enchanting under the moonlight. Bhedaghat is also home to Dhuandhar Falls, where the Narmada River plunges in a misty cascade.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person for boat rides
5. Dumna Nature Reserve
Photo: Sandeep Shukla / Wikimedia Commons
Dumna Nature Reserve, located about 40 kilometres from Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary, is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Spread over a large area, the reserve is home to various species of flora and fauna, including wild boars, jackals, and spotted deer. It also features a beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy boating. The reserve offers well-maintained walking trails, perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and photography.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
Where To Stay
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Several accommodations near the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary range from budget to luxury stays. Hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges in Jabalpur offer comfortable options for visitors. Some popular choices include the Vijan Mahal, Narmada Jacksons, and Rani Durgavati Homestay. These accommodations provide easy access to the sanctuary and other attractions in the area.
Where To Eat
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Jabalpur offers a wide range of dining options for visitors to the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary. Traditional Madhya Pradesh cuisine can be enjoyed at restaurants like Indian Coffee House, The Yellow Chilli, and Clock Tower Chinese. Street food options such as samosas, jalebis, and poha are popular. Many hotels in Jabalpur serve delicious meals, making dining convenient for travellers.
Best Time To Visit Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary
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The best time to visit the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The monsoon season (July to September) sees heavy rainfall, making the sanctuary’s roads muddy and difficult to traverse. The summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C, making wildlife sightings less frequent.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
A 2-3 day trip to Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary will cost around ₹6,000 to ₹12,000, depending on your accommodation, food preferences, and transportation mode. Safaris and additional excursions may increase the budget. The Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary ticket price is ₹ 250 per person or ₹1500 for eight. For ₹1000, you may rent a gypsy for two hours to tour the sanctuary.
Tips For Travellers:
- Carry binoculars and cameras to capture the beauty of the sanctuary. Don’t forget to click a stunning Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary photo!
- Check the Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary timings before planning your safari.
- Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes to explore the sanctuary.
- Respect wildlife and avoid littering in the sanctuary.
- Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle, especially during summer visits.
- Contact local authorities or the sanctuary’s authorities for updated information about safaris and bookings.
Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary offers an incredible experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The sanctuary is a hidden gem in Madhya Pradesh, from exotic wildlife to scenic landscapes. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking solace in nature, this sanctuary won’t disappoint. Plan your next adventure with TripXL and explore the untouched beauty of this sanctuary while creating lasting memories!
Cover Photo: Sreejith K / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
