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Types of Safaris in Panna National Park
Jeep Safari
Along with a wide range of animals and plants, explore the extensive plateau and gorges, gleaming waterfalls and deep teak forests in an open jeep safari. The thrill of watching a tiger from a close distance is unmatchable and one should not miss the activity because that is your best bet to catch a sight of a tiger.
Panna National Park Safari is ideal for nature photography and bird watching as well. The jeep safari is an activity that one must indulge in on their visit to Panna Tiger Reserve as it is the most popular way to explore the park. Night safari is also offered by the Ken River Lodge in the buffer zone.
Safari Timings:
Summer: Morning: 5:30 am to 9:30 am
Evening: 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm
Winter: Morning: 7:00 am to 10:30 am
Evening: 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Safari Cost: - INR 1000 per vehicle (for Indians)
- INR 2000 per vehicle (for Foreigners)
Note: Panna National Park Safari is closed for evening safari on every Wednesday.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.
Safari Zones: No restricted area.
Get ready to spectate the most breathtaking vistas of nature. Here's a list of most beautiful Waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh that will leave you totally amazed.
Elephant Safari
Elephant safari is another type of Panna National Park safari that is essentially adventurous in its character. You can roam around in the lush green jungle along with a guide on the back of an elephant, gazing at the farther distance as compared to jeep safari.
You are more likely to see a tiger on an elephant safari. The unique activity is enthralling and thrilling, and you won’t be disappointed to take up this ride.
Safari Timings: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM; 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Safari Cost: Starts at INR 100
Madhya Pradesh is a state with plenty on offer for all kinds of travelers. Read the guide to the some of the best things do in Madhya Pradesh.
Boat Ride
Ken River flows from the ravines and gorges of the park and covers most of the forest area. It is a tributary of the Yamuna River. It is home for the long snout gharial, python and other aquatic species.
While enjoying boating one can spot animals that come to the river banks to quench their thirst.
The activity is a delight if you love birding as a wide range of bird species can be spotted near the river. The whole experience of boating in the tranquil waters of the river is mesmerizing.
Timings:7:00 AM to 9:00 AM; 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Cost: Starts from INR 150
Duration: 30 mins to 1 hour.
Safari Zone: In the Ken River.
The beautiful state of Madhya Pradesh is geographically the heart of India, with heritage sites steeped in rich history, and wilderness housing abundant biodiversity.For those craving the taste of adventure, there is a wide variety of water sports in Madhya Pradesh.
Types of Flora and Fauna in Panna National Park
Flora
The park also features open woodlands with tall grasses, open grasslands, and thorny woodlands, etc. Prominent flora in the park includes teak, bamboo, kadhai, boswellia, etc.
Trees that are commonly found in the open woodlands are tendu, mahua, sajal, bel, salai. Teak is copiously found in the park’s border. Elephant grasses are also very common in the grasslands.
Fauna
Here the population of Nilgai & Sambar is very good in comparison to any other mammal species. There are more than 200 species of birds in the park. This park also hosts many migratory birds.
Prominent birds include a variety of vultures, Paradise Flycatcher, White-necked Stork, Night Jar, Pond Heron, Pipit, Honey Buzzard, Slaty-headed Parakeet, Bare-headed Goose, etc.
Aquatic species include Indian snakes, crocodiles, and others. Long snout gharial and mugger can be easily spotted in the River Ken.
Places to Stay near Panna National Park
Pashan Garh
This luxury jungle lodge offers perfect perch for birding, breathtaking views of the sunset. After a tiresome and thrilling jungle safari, you can relax in the comfortable cottage with a compelling view.
The beautiful chunky stone interiors, rich textiles, and vintage table lamps add beauty to its architecture. This resort is sure to give you a memorable stay experience.
Amenities:
- 12 Luxury Stone Cottage
- Swimming Pool
- Spa & Gym
- Palanquin Dinner
Activities:
- Jungle Safari Drives
- Natural Trails
- Stargazing
- Junior Naturalist Program
- Private Massage Desks
Price: The indicative per day price starts from INR 23,000.
Location: Panna National Park, Amanganj Road Panna, Panna, Madhya Pradesh.Distance from Panna National Park: 15Km.
There is an extensive range of excellent resorts in Madhya Pradesh, capable of adding joy and comfort to your Madhya Pradesh tour with their world-class services and facilities.
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Ken River Lodge
The melody of running water in the silent forest surroundings utterly calming. The lodge offers 6 village style air-conditioned huts with attached modern bathrooms, 5 Family cottages (2 Bedrooms) with attached bathroom, living room, kitchenette and open deck.
The cottages and huts are spread out in 50 acres of land providing unmatched amenities. The stay here will surely bring you closer to nature and will help you unwind.
Amenities:
- 6 Village Style Air-conditioned Cottages
- 5 Family Cottages
- Tree Top Restaurant
Activities:
- Jeep Safari
- Boat Safari
- Night Safari
- Angling
- Bird Watching
- Nature Trails
- Overnight Camping in Reserve Forest
Price: The indicative price for the luxurious cottage starts from INR 7000.
Distance from Panna National Park: 1 Km.
Take a break from the mundane affairs of your life by adding one of the best homestays in Madhya Pradesh to your vacation plan. Living in a homestay with natural surroundings is one of the best ways to enjoy a refreshing holiday with your loved ones.
Jungle Camp Madla
One of the best options for budget travelers in Panna National Park, Jungle Camp Madla is a known name among wildlife enthusiasts. The sprawling gardens and luxury tents at the resort will give you an ultimate jungle stay experience.
Enjoy a stay in one of the 10 air-conditioned Swiss cottages at Jungle Camp Madla, and experience lavishness while being surrounded by the wilderness of the wildlife park. The resort is located at a short distance from the Madla Gate of the national park, so you can feel the wilderness in the air while you are staying here.
Amenities:
-Swiss Tents
-Lawns
-Multi Cuisine Restaurant
-Bonfire
Activities:
-Jungle Safari
-Nature Walk
-Bird Watching
-Camping
Price: The indicative per day price starts from INR 2,900.
Location: Madla, Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
Distance from Panna National Park: 17 Km.
Check out the best places to camp in Madhya Pradesh that offers the right balance of comfort and wilderness, ensuring that your experience remains peaceful and unhindered.
Panna Tiger Resort
If you are seeking solace in the lap of nature, there are few resorts in Panna National Park that match the level of hospitality and facilities at Panna Tiger Resort. The resort, located on the banks of River Ken, features 12 air-conditioned cottages with all comforts to help you relax after you have spent a tiresome day exploring the wildlife of the park.
Every cottage comes with a balcony to facilitate views of the lush greenery that surrounds the resort. There is a dining area where you can relish Indian, Continental and Chinese delicacies.
Amenities:
- 12 Deluxe Air-Conditioned Cottages
- Roof Top Restaurant
Activities:
- Jungle Safari (Morning and Evening)
- Boat Ride
- Nature Walks
- Crocodile spotting
- Bird Watching
Price: The indicative per day price starts from is INR 6,500.
Location: Village Mandla, Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
Distance from Panna National Park: 1Km from the Madla gate entrance.
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Sarai at Toria
The setting of this resort is such that you will feel the essence of the jungle surrounding it. Take pleasure in the magnificent views from your personal verandas. It is a pollution free area running on renewable energy and you can stay here and enjoy the facilities like warm water, electricity etc.
If you are a nature enthusiast, then this place is for you. You can experience hospitality at its best here.
Amenities:
-Classic Cottages
-Mezzanine Cottages
-Restaurant
-River View Dinner
Activities:
-Bird Watching
-Nature Walk
-Jeep Safari
-Temple Visiting
Price: The indicative per day price starts from INR 18,000.
Location: Mela Wali Galli, Village Toria, District Chatarpur, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
Distance from Panna National Park: 2 Km.
Temples in Madhya Pradesh have been noted for their distinct art and architecture along with the ability to soothe minds of the visitors by offering a religious escape into the abode of Gods.
Other Places to Visit near Panna National Park
Ken Gharial Sanctuary
It is a part of Panna National Park, so the sightings of wildlife species other than Gharial in the deep jungle of teaks include Wolf, Nilgai (Blue Bull), Spotted Deer, Jackal, Indian Fox, Dholes, Peacock, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Hyena, Languar, Monitor Lizard. Also, Leopard and Sloth bear.
Highlights: Nature photography while boating in the sparkling Ken River.
Location: Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh.
Timings: The sanctuary can be visited by tourists from sunrise to sunset and boating timings are 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Distance from Panna National Park: 24 Km.
Apart from many historical landmarks and various temples, what makes Madhya Pradesh so famous is its wildlife tourism. Here is the list of all the national parks of Madhya Pradesh that you should not miss.
Raneh Falls
Raneh Falls is a visual delight and a visit to it will surely leave you awestruck. Do not miss this scenic waterfall when you visit the Panna Tiger Reserve.
Highlights: The most fascinating thing is that one can find many small and big falls in regular stretches while you visit the Raneh Falls.
Location: Chhatapur, Madhya Pradesh.
Timings: The fall can be visited from sunrise to sunset.
Distance from Panna National Park: 19 Km.
To taste the grandeur of the state, one simply needs to visit the various places which have received rave appreciation for their intricacy and simplicity. There are forts, museums and other monuments in this state which speak golden words about the history and present the state as a heritage land. Click here for the best tourist attractions of Madhya Pradesh.
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Pandav Falls
Remnants of the shrines and caves that commemorate this legend can be seen around the pool below. This is a perfect spot to take pleasure in the natural beauty surrounding the place.
Highlights: The caves make this waterfall an interesting site for culture enthusiasts and history lovers.
Location: Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
Distance from Panna National Park: 15 Km.
Note: The fall closes at 12 noon on every Wednesday.
Dhubela Museum
The museum comprises of 8 galleries, of which two galleries display inscriptions, Sati pillars, copper plates, lingas and inscribed images of the Gupta and Kalachuri period. The museum also houses an extensive range of sculptures of the Shakti cult.
The Arms Gallery showcased in the museum includes the weapons like swords, bows and arrows, shields, maces, cannons and grenades. In the Amusement Gallery of the museum, there are convex-concave mirrors strategically placed so that visitors can see distorted and funny images of themselves. Visit this museum to explore and know about the history and culture.
Highlights: The varied and rich collection of several artifacts and sculptures.
Location: Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Distance from Panna National Park: 66 Km.
Note: The museum is closed on every Monday.
The central part of India is replete with some priceless gems in the form of historical places in Madhya Pradesh. Known for its rich cultural heritage in the country and beyond its bounds, the state of Madhya Pradesh has preserved its historical monuments in a commendable fashion.
Ajaygarh & Kalinjar Fort
The fort has two gates, two temples and rock-cut tanks namely Ganga and Yamuna. You can hike for exceptionally scenic views and the beautiful architecture of the fort.
The Kalinjar Fort stands on an isolated rocky hill on the last spur of the Vindhya Range. The fort was built by Chandela kings during the 10th century. This fort is a treasure trove for history lovers with its rich collection of monuments, artifacts, and temples.
Highlights: Exceptional Indian monuments, architectural beauty, and archaeological site.
Location: Ajaygarh Fort: Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh
Kalinjar Fort: Banda, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: Ajaygarh Fort: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Kalinjar Fort: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Distance from Panna National Park: Ajaygarh Fort: 33 Km.
Kalinjar Fort: 58 Km.
When it comes to forts in Madhya Pradesh, you really are spoilt for choice, for the state is home to countless historical marvels from various ages, and each one has something unique to offer. Known as the ‘heart of India’, the land of Madhya Pradesh brims with a rich heritage, history, and a fine medley of cultures that have merged over time.
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Mahamati Prannathji Temple
Later, he took Samadhi inside one of the domes itself. It is constructed in 1692 and inspired by both Hindu and Muslim architectural style and beliefs. Kaman Darwaza is a well-known gate of the temple, which is made up of using silver metal.
Highlights: It is a site of religious importance for both Hindu and Muslims.
Location: Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
Timing: 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM & 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Distance from Panna National Park: 1.2 Km.
Cave exploration in Madhya Pradesh is a surreal experience, and guarantees to render you speechless, while also satiating your thirst for history. A beautiful array of cave paintings and carvings can be seen within the withered walls, along with countless artifacts, relics and sculptures that recite fascinating tales of the ages they belong to.
Madla Village
Villagers can be seen going by their usual lives, working in their fields. This experience will be different and exciting for people with curiosity for new cultures.
Location: Panna, Madhya Pradesh.
Distance from Panna National Park: 8 Km.
Things to Do in Panna National Park
Jungle Safari
Besides, one can explore the beautiful gorges and ravines, compelling waterfalls and the thick green forest in an open jeep or on the back of an elephant. Do not miss the exciting safari because this is the best way to watch the raw nature from a close distance.
Highlights: The pleasure of close encounters with wild animals, especially tigers.
Safari Timings:
Summer: Morning: 5:30 am to 9:30 am
Evening: 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm
Winter: Morning: 7:00 am to 10:30 am
Evening: 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Safari Cost: - INR 1000 per vehicle (for Indians)
- INR 2000 per vehicle (for Foreigners)
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Wildlife Spotting
There are more than 200 species of flora in the park such as Tectona grandis, Diospyros melanoxylon, Madhuca Indica (Mahua), Buchanania latifolia, Anogeissus latifolia, Anogeissus pendula, Lannea coromandelica, Boswellia serrata etc.
Such a wide collection of animal and plant species makes this park a treat for wildlife and nature lovers.
Highlights: The rich biodiversity and ecosystem of the natural park.
Timings: The safari time in the park is from 6:30 AM to 6 PM.
Boating in Ken River
Spotting a crocodile so close to your boat will astonish you. You can also enjoy birding while boating. Do not miss this exciting experience!
Highlights: Boating in the untainted Ken River while soaking in the natural beauty of the park.
Timings:7:00 AM to 9:00 AM & 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Price: Starts from INR 150.
Bird Watching
Panna National Reserve is home for more than 200 species of birds. The park is also a host for many migratory birds. Variety of birds can be spotted flying in the park. You can also enjoy birding while boating.
It is really exciting to be able to spot different birds like a white necked stork, bareheaded goose, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Paradise flycatcher, Honey Buzzard, King vulture.
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Tiger Spotting at Panna Tiger Reserve
The hope of spotting tiger during a safari is what makes the activity so thrilling and keeps the adrenaline rushing.
Panna Tiger Reserve is among the best places in the country for tiger spotting. Get drenched in the spirit of adventure that you get to experience while looking out for a tiger.
Nature Photography
Many people visit here throughout the year to see and capture in their cameras the scenic gorges and plateau, cheering waterfalls and thriving deep jungles of teak.
The raw nature at Panna National Park is really attractive and ideal for the activity of nature photography in Madhya Pradesh.
Highlights: The activity gives you ample opportunities to capture animals and birds in their natural habitat.
How to Reach Panna National Park
By Bhopal:
- Nearby Airport: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho.
- Nearby Railway Stations: The nearest railway station is Satna junction railway station and Khajuraho railway station.
- Buses: There is no direct bus service between Bhopal and Panna National park but there are various buses that ply from Bhopal to reach Panna. After reaching Panna you can take a bus to the national park which is approximately 28 kilometers away via Madla.
- Distance from Bhopal: It is at located at a distance of 390 kilometers from Bhopal that is about 7 hours drive via road.
By Indore:
- Nearby Airport: The nearest airport is the Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho which is approximately 40 kilometers from Panna National Park.
- Nearby Railway Stations: The nearest railway stations are Satna junction railway station and Khajuraho railway station.
- Buses: There is no direct bus service but there are various bus services that connect Indore to Panna. From Panna, you can easily get a bus to reach the national park.
- Distance from Indore: It is located at a distance of 575 kilometers from Indore.
By Delhi:
- Nearby Airport: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho. You can take a flight from Delhi to Khajuraho via Varanasi.
- Nearby Railway Stations: The nearest railway station is Satna junction railway station and Khajuraho railway station. There are various direct trains that connect Delhi and Satna railway station.
- Buses: There are no direct buses between Delhi and the national park.
- Distance from Delhi: It is located at a distance of approximately 680 kilometers from Delhi.
By Nagpur:
- Nearby Airport: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho.
- Nearby Railway Stations: The nearest railway station is Satna junction railway station and Khajuraho railway station. You can opt for direct train services between Indore and Satna.
- Buses: There is no direct bus connectivity between Nagpur and the national park.
- Distance from Nagpur: The distance between Nagpur and the Panna Tiger Reserve is 530 kilometers.
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Best Time to Visit Panna National Park
During the summer season, the climate is hot and animals including tigers can be seen near the River Ken quenching their thirst. The site of animals while boating surely will be gripping. In winters there are many migratory birds that can be seen in the park.
This is the best time for bird watching and to enjoy the picturesque beauty of the park. The climate will be mild and pleasant. So, the best time to visit the national park is from November to March as the climate during this time is amusing and the chances to watch tigers, birds and other animals are high.
Essential Things to Keep in Mind
2. Do not wear bright colours cloth as it can attract dangerous animals.
3. Reach early before the park gates open to complete all the formalities.
4. Do not venture into restricted areas.
5. At any point of the safari don’t step out of the vehicle without your guide’s permission.
6. Do not litter, take out the trash with you.
7. Carry binoculars and camera with you.
8. Do not try to feed animals.
9. Do not smoke and light a fire.
10. Do not play music and make noises as it may provoke animals.
