Wildlife Sanctuaries In Madhya Pradesh: Must-Visit Spots For Wildlife Enthusiasts

Grab a chance to get acquainted with some endangered species of birds and animals.

Widely known as the “Tiger State” of India, Madhya Pradesh is best known for its rich biodiversity and overwhelming landscapes. There are several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, and therefore, it always attracts nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. From the mighty tiger to the elusive leopard, the wildlife sanctuaries here give one a rare view of the natural world. Let’s take a look at some of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the state that beautifully depict the miraculous flora and fauna of this region.

10 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Madhya Pradesh

Get to explore some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh mentioned below.

1. Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Photo: Kalyan Varma / Wikimedia Commons

One of India’s biggest and most celebrated national parks, an imposing stretch of 940 square kilometres, is Kanha National Park. It is known for its rich biodiversity and the fact that it has been successful in conserving the royal Bengal tiger. Leopards, Indian wild dogs, and other species of deer, like Barasingha, have also been sighted here. Kanha’s lush forests, open grasslands, and picturesque lakes create such a breathtaking landscape that attracts nature enthusiasts all over. This unique topography, spiced with rich wildlife and a strong sense of conservation, crowns it as one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit: October to June
Activities: jeep safaris, birdwatching, and nature photography

2. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh Park is known for its dense tiger population and historical significance.

Photo: Archith / Wikimedia Commons

Bandhavgarh National Park is another prized jewel of the treasure trove of Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for its density of tigers, and it is also steeped in historical importance. Spread over more than 448 square kilometres, the park is a mosaic of open grasslands, dense forests, and rocky hills. Bandhavgarh is not merely a noted site for wildlife sightings but is also an area carrying a historical aura. Its excellent biodiversity and fascinating history further cement its position as one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit: October to June
Activities: Jungle safaris, trekking, birdwatching, and breathtaking photographs

3. Pench National Park

Pench National Park is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Photo: Fitindia / Wikimedia Commons

It is the land where Rudyard Kipling got the inspiration to present his famous literary masterpiece, “The Jungle Book.” On the boundary of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the park spreads over more than 758 square kilometres and is rich in all types of flora, including tigers, leopards, and more than 300 bird species. The park boasts sublime views of its lush landscapes, with different animals seen in their natural habitats. This makes it one of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh. The natural beauty and historical and cultural significance it holds are attractions to nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Best Time To Visit: October to June
Activities: jeep safaris, nature walks and birdwatching

4. Panna National Park

Panna National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse animal population.

Photo: Mehaknoni / Wikimedia Commons

Panna National Park is known for its stunning landscapes, including hills and waterfalls and the beautiful Ken River. This park spreads over 542 square kilometres and includes tigers, leopards, and other deer species. Panna National Park houses ancient temples and monuments, thus increasing its significance for cultural and historical exploration. Panna is also known for its success in the conservation of tigers, and thus, it stands out as the most significant wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. The natural beauty of Panna, combined with the richness of its wildlife, creates an incredible backdrop for visitors who are interested in adventures and calmness.

Best Time To Visit: November to April
Activities: Jeep safaris, boat rides and birdwatching

5. Satpura National Park

Satpura National Park is known for its rugged terrain and unique thrilling experiences.

Photo: Suvro Banerjee / Wikimedia Commons

Satpura National Park is unique in its rocky and diversified terrenes and ecosystems. Most parks do not offer walking safaris and canoeing on the Denwa River. Still, this park allows adventurous visitors to move closer to nature because it accommodates several species, such as tigers, leopards, and various bird species. There is a serene ambiance and picturesque views that enable the visitor to have an exceptional experience while viewing wildlife and taking photographs. Satpura offers such an experience that stands out among other sites for wildlife enthusiasts.

Best Time To Visit: October to April
Activities: Walking safaris, canoeing, jeep safaris, and birdwatching

6. Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Close to Mandla lies the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, which is a sanctuary for many species of wildlife. It is known for its quiet atmosphere and rich biodiversity, so it is the perfect destination for nature lovers eager to find peace away from the hustle of city life. There are also several viewing points available at the park to watch wildlife, which makes the place an attractor for photographers as well as wildlife lovers. Sanjay Gandhi is a hidden treasure among all the Madhya Pradesh wildlife sanctuaries.

Best Time To Visit: October to June
Activities: Jungle safaris, birdwatching, nature trails, and photography

7. Bori Wildlife Sanctuary

Bori, known for its biodiversity, is among the best wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Bori Wildlife Sanctuary is one of those undiscovered sites that boasts flora and fauna. Located in the Satpura range, its terrain includes ground forms of hills, dense forests, and rivers. It is the abode of tigers and leopards, along with numerous other avifaunal, making it an exciting place for all nature lovers. Its peaceful atmosphere, far away from the city’s chaos, gives a much-needed haven to wildlife enthusiasts. Bori also houses unique hiking trails that allow visitors the privilege of traversing stunning landscapes while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, jeep safaris, and nature walks

8. Mandla Plantations Wildlife Sanctuary

Mandla Plantations is a little lesser-known spot housing endangered animal species.

Photo: DSD / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Mandla Plantations Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for a variety of ecosystems and biodiversity. Some important species of wildlife habitat residing here include tigers, leopards, and many types of herbivores. This luscious green scenic sanctuary provides an optimum environment for the visitor to connect with nature. Since Mandla Plantations is lesser-known, it offers a more serene experience with fewer crowds. The sanctuary possesses distinguished terrain and lush flora, which render it suitable for nature walks and wildlife photography.

Best Time To Visit: October to June
Activities: Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature photography, and eco-tours

9. Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary

Achanakmar is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh state.

Photo: Deep Rajwar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary stretches over 550 sq km, and is home to tigers and leopards, among many kinds of deer. Dense forests, rolling hills, and silvery streams drape this sanctuary- a perfect setting to watch creatures in the wild. Achanakmar is one of the best destinations for eco-tourism and photography regarding wildlife. Here, one gets to see nature closely, making it add glory to the sites of the wildlife and environmental enthusiasts to take a conservation effort that provides a richly protected natural resource experience.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Activities: Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature photography, and eco-tours

10. Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench Tiger Reserve is famous for its rich biodiversity and scenic natural beauty.

Photo: Ralph / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The institution of the Pench Tiger Reserve, with the lush Pench National Park as one of its parts, features notable efforts towards tiger conservation. It has tigers, leopards, and many bird species. The mix of beautiful forests and the Pench River creates an ideal environment for wildlife enthusiasts across its vast stretches. Besides the beautiful scenery, the reserve is famous for the exciting safari adventures. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Best Time To Visit: October to April
Activities: Jeep safaris, birdwatching and nature photography

Most of the wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh are located here to make up a rich flora and fauna. From spotting tigers and observing birds, there is no end to these erstwhile opportunities for connecting with nature. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, plan your trip with TripXL now, and head off for a journey of unforgettable memories in the vibrant state.

Cover Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, local markets in nearby towns like Kanha and Pench offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and tribal artefacts that reflect the region's culture.
You can explore Mahatma Gandhi National Park, Amarkantak, or visit nearby villages to feel the local culture and lifestyle.
The nearest airports are in Jabalpur and Nagpur. You can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the sanctuaries from there.
Both these sanctuaries are unique in their ways. While Kanha stands out with the most dramatic landscapes and abounds with a wide variety of wildlife, Bandhavgarh shines for its enormous density of tigers with historical ruins at each step.
While you have to pay for tickets to go on a safari tour, you can walk around nature, watch birds, or visit nearby villages where some of the culture and local life will be seen.

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