Panna Tiger Reserve is the 21st Tiger Reserve of India and fifth of Madhya Pradesh state. It is situated in the Vindhya Ranges and spreads over Panna and Chhatarpur districts in the north of Madhya Pradesh State. Panna National Park was created in 1981. It was declared a Project Tiger Project by Government in the 1994. This sanctuary comprised of territorial forests of the present North and South Panna Forest Division to which a portion of the adjoining Chhatarpur Forest Division was added later.
The Location of the National Park is also important because it is situated at a point where the continuity of the forest best ( starts from Kanyakumari in the south) is broken and beyond this the great Gangatic Plains begin. Total Area covered by Panna National Park is 1645 sq km, where 576 sq km is Core Zone and 1022 sq km is Buffer Zone. Forests of Panna National Park along with Ken Gharial Sanctuary and adjoining territorial divisions form a significant part of the catchment area of the river Ken with a total length of 406 km runs for about 72 kms through this catchment. The Ken river , which flows through the Reserve from south to north, is home for Gharial and Crocodile, and other aquatic fauna and is one of the least polluted rivers and a tributary of river Yamuna.
- Panna Tiger Reserve is just 25 km from Khajuraho, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tiger sighting is always a matter of chance but regular sightings are reported.
- Cheetal, Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara, Chowsingha, Langoor, Wild boar, Jackal, Spotted Dear are frequently sighted.
- Gorges and falls along the course of the Ken river in the Reserve are beholding.
- 8 Species of vultures and crocodiles in Ken River.
After getting all these information, we booked our train to Chhatarpur then we hired a taxi. We reached Madla Gate of Panna Tiger Reserve in morning 5:30. Then We booked our seat for Jeep Safari at Karnawati Hotel. At 6:45, Entry open for vehicles (Gypsy). We are 6 passengers in one gypsy with one Guide and Driver. It was a cloudy morning of January but fortunately no fog. We all were excited to experience the wildlife.
We were first welcomed by Peacock, then group of spotted deer cross our way. We go though the varieties of flora and fauna. We all wanted to see Tiger but unfortunately Tiger was no in mood to come in public today. Then, we move for Boating in Ken River. In Boating, we got the chance to see the Crocodile from more closer side.Ken River was so pure and pollution Free because No industrial waste amalgamate in it.
After Taking lot of memories of Tiger Reserve, we move for our next destination i.e. Pandav Fall and Caves. It is just 7 km from Madla Entry Gate of Panna Tiger Reserve. Entry ticket of Panna Fall and Caves is complementary with Tiger Reserve Bookings.
According to Hindu mythology, When Pandavas left their home and live in jungles. One Pandav brother Bheem made these caves for their shelter by his powerful punch. Near to Pandav Caves there is beautiful waterfall which falls from the height of 40 metre into Pond. All these locations are preserved by Forest Department. Food Joints are available outside the Territory of Tiger Reserve Sanctuary and Pandav Caves and Fall.
How to Reach:
Entry Gates: Madla (19 km) and Hinouta (20 km) from Panna City.
For Reaching Madla
Airways: Nearest Airport is Khajuraho (32 km), which is directly connected with New Delhi and Varanasi.
Railways: Nearest Railway Station is Khajuraho (25 km) and Chhatarpur (58km) but with less frequency of trains. Satna Railway Station (90 km) connected with all major cities of India.
Roadways: Bus Service available from Chhatarpur and Panna Bus Stand for Madla (Entry Point of Panna National Park).
Best way is to hire your taxi from Panna, Chhatarpur, Khajuraho etc. to Madla or Hinouti Entry Gates.
Where to Stay:
Madla: Jungle Camp of Madhya Pradesh Tourism, Ken River Lodge and Panna Tiger Resort and other Hotels and Homestays.
Hinouta: Jungle Cottage and Eco-Camp available at Hinouta Entry Gate.
Best Time to Visit: December to March.
Park Entry Fees: Rs 250 per person + Rs 1500 per vehicle + Rs 360 (Guide Fess per Round). Only 6 persons allow in one vehicle. Tourist can also take their vehicle to National Park with following guidelines and fees.
You can book your Safari online by https://forest.mponline.gov.in/Search.aspx
Entry Timings: Sunrise to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to Sunset.
Things to Remember:
- Early Mornings and late afternoons are best suited for visiting the forests and sighting of animals.
- While going inside the forest, taking a guide is compulsory.
- Carry Drinking Water.
- Do not disturb or tease animals.
- Drive slowly and do not blow horn.
- Refrain from smoking or lighting of fire.
- Do not carry any firearms.
- Radio or music systems are better left behind.
- Do not throw plastics or garbage anywhere. Use only dustbins.
- Do not get out of vehicle at places other than designated area.
- Please consult your guide for what to see, when and where.
- Offences in the Park are dealt in accordance with Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
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