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The national parks of India invite visitors to get away from city life, breathe refreshing air, and listen to the chirping of various birds and insects. They are a literal green haven under the sun. In particular, Madhya Pradesh, which is famous for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, is home to some of the country's most amazing national parks and reserves. From nature lovers and wildlife seekers to adventure enthusiasts, visitors to any of the state’s national parks can glimpse the majestic Bengal tiger, spectacular natural formations like massive gorges, and diverse flora and fauna.
With its unique blend of hills, forests and rivers, Madhya Pradesh's national parks are perfect for those keen on birdwatching, photography or simply taking solace in the more-than-human world. Here are 10 of its must-visit destinations for a memorable adventure.
Kanha National Park is renowned for its role in the conservation of barasingha (swamp deer) and is one of India’s largest tiger reserves. At 940 square kilometres, it is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh. Kanha's vast landscapes are filled with lush forests, open meadows and serene water bodies, creating a perfect habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Crystal-clear streams are set among dense jungles where tigers roam, barasingha frolic, and countless species of plants, birds, reptiles and insects live out their lives. You are likely to spot tigers, barasingha, Indian leopards and wild dogs (dholes) here.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM | 3 PM – 6 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,500 per vehicle
Best time to visit: November to May
Located in the Narmadapuram district of Madhya Pradesh, this national park's name is derived from the Satpura range. Sprawling 1,427 square kilometres, Satpura National Park stands out for its irregular beauty, deep gorges and sandstone peaks. It offers visitors a tranquil retreat in the wilderness with opportunities for trekking, boat safaris and wildlife viewing. The park is an ecotourism hotspot and visitors are likely to spot leopards, Indian bison (gaur), black buck, Malabar giant squirrels and crocodiles here.
Timings: 6 AM – 10:30 AM | 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,250 per vehicle
Best time to visit: October to March
Panna National Park is located in the Vindhya mountain range and is known for its successful tiger conservation efforts. It is a scenic park that boasts waterfalls and the crystal-clear Ken River. Panna is also a significant diamond-mining region which adds to its uniqueness among Madhya Pradesh's national parks. You are likely to spot tigers, Indian wolves, chinkara and gharial (in the Ken River) here.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM | 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,500 per vehicle for Indians | INR 3,000 per vehicle for foreigners
Best time to visit: October to March
Pench National Park is located in the southern part of the Satpura Hills and is divided by the Pench River. The park was the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's famous novel, “The Jungle Book.” It is home to rich flora and fauna and stunning landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts in Madhya Pradesh. Pench is also one of the top places to see Bengal tigers in India. In addition to India's national animal, you are likely to spot leopards, sloth bears, dholes and various bird species here.
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM | 3 PM – 6 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,500 per vehicle for Indians | INR 3,000 per vehicle for foreigners
Best time to visit: November to April
Famous for its high density of Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park is a top destination for those looking to spot these magnificent predators. The park is also home to the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, which gives it a historical charm alongside its natural beauty. You are likely to spot gaur, leopards and spotted deer here.
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM | 3PM – 6 PM
Entry fees: INR 2,500 per vehicle
Best time to visit: October to April
Located in the Shivpuri district, Madhav National Park features a unique blend of landscapes, such as forests, grasslands and lakes. It is less crowded than other parks on this list, making it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and solitude while enjoying the beauty of nature. You are likely to spot leopards, nilgai, chital and crocodiles here.
Timings: 6 AM – 10:30 AM | 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,000 per vehicle
Best time to visit: October to March
Sanjay-Dubri National Park is located in the eastern part of Madhya Pradesh. It is part of the Sanjay Tiger Reserve and is a relatively less well-known national park. The park is ideal for embarking on peaceful wildlife safaris to see Bengal tigers, dholes, sambar and the Indian porcupine, among other wild creatures.
Timings: 6 AM – 10:30 AM | 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,000 per vehicle
Best time to visit: November to March
Situated in Bhopal, Van Vihar National Park serves as both a zoo and a protected area for animals living in their natural habitats. Its proximity to the city makes it an ideal spot for a quick getaway to experience nature without travelling too far. You can spot Bengal tigers, leopards, Asiatic lions and gharial here.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 20 per person
Best time to visit: Year-round
Kuno National Park recently gained global attention due to the introduction of African cheetahs to its site. The park is located in the Sheopur district and offers an opportunity to see unique wildlife in a semi-arid landscape. You are likely to spot cheetahs, leopards, chinkara and striped hyenas here.
Timings: 6 AM – 10:30 AM | 2 PM – 5:30 PM
Entry fees: INR 1,500 per vehicle
Best time to visit: November to February
Situated along the Chambal River, the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse birdlife and aquatic species. The sanctuary is located near the Gandhi Sagar Dam, which makes it a picturesque location for nature lovers and birdwatchers. You are likely to spot Indian gazelle, jackals, monitor lizards and various migratory birds here.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry fees: INR 500 per vehicle
Best time to visit: November to March
