Satpura
- Satpura
Satpura National Park – Madhya Pradesh
For those seeking a more intimate and less crowded wildlife experience, Satpura National Park offers a refreshing change. Located in the Satpura ranges of Madhya Pradesh, this park is unique for its variety of safari options; jeep, boat, and even walking safaris are available here, making it perfect for explorers who love to go beyond the ordinary.
Satpura’s rugged terrain, sandstone peaks, deep gorges, and serene lakes create habitats for an incredible diversity of species, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian giant squirrels, and over 300 species of birds. The park’s peaceful atmosphere makes every wildlife encounter feel personal and unhurried.
Spread over 524 square kilometers, Satpura was established in 1981 and is part of a larger biosphere reserve that includes Bori and Pachmarhi sanctuaries. Its river systems, dense forests, and remote trails offer a truly immersive wilderness escape unlike any other in Central India.
Interesting Fact – Satpura National Park
Satpura is one of the few parks in India that offers walking safaris and canoe rides, giving visitors a closer and quieter wildlife experience.
Prime Predators
Leopards dominate here, with tigers present but elusive.
Famous For?
It’s rich in landscape diversity, sandstone peaks, deep ravines, and tranquil waterways.
Major Wildlife
Leopards, tigers, sloth bears, giant squirrels, wild boars, Malabar whistling thrushes, and crocodiles in the Denwa River.
Flora & Fauna in the Park
Satpura National Park is a scenic blend of rugged hills, deep valleys, and meandering streams, clothed in dense sal, teak, and mixed deciduous forests. The park’s diverse landscape also includes grasslands and sandstone peaks, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
Satpura is one of the few tiger reserves in India where walking safaris are permitted, offering a unique way to explore its rich wildlife. Apart from tigers, it shelters leopards, sloth bears, and rare mammals like the Malabar giant squirrel. Birdlife is equally impressive, with over 300 recorded species.
Mammals
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Malabar Giant Squirrel
- Wild Dog
- Sambar
- Chital
- Gaur
Birds
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Indian Skimmer
- Black Stork
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Peafowl
Reptiles
- Indian Cobra
- Rock Python
- Checkered Keelback
- Rat Snake
- Monitor Lizard
Safari Zones or Gates
Satpura National Park
Satpura offers a unique mix of jeep safaris, boat safaris, and walking safaris across its zones.
Pachmarhi Zone
Known for beautiful landscapes and waterfalls, entry is via the Pachmarhi Gate.
Madhai Zone
The main safari entry point offers jeep, boat, and walking safaris. Entry is through Madhai Gate.
Panasar Zone
A remote and less-visited area ideal for peaceful wildlife experiences. Entry is through Panasar Gate.
Churna Zones
Famous for night stays inside the forest and rich wildlife diversity. Entry is via Churna Gate.
Buffer Zones
Includes Sehra, Parsapani, and Jamani Dev buffer areas, perfect for exploring wildlife away from crowds