Located in the heart of India, Panna National Park is one of the most celebrated tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh. Spanning an area of 542 square kilometers, this park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and its status as a key wildlife conservation area. The Ken River flows through the park, adding to its scenic beauty and ecological richness.
This guide provides detailed insights into Panna National Park, covering opening hours, main attractions, ticket fees, booking procedures, and nearby places to explore.
History and Overview
Established in 1981 and declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994, Panna National Park has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once struggling with dwindling tiger numbers, the park has become a success story of tiger conservation, thanks to efforts by the government and local communities. It is part of the larger Panna Biosphere Reserve, and in 2020, it was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park’s terrain is a mix of tropical dry deciduous forests, open grasslands, and plateaus. It features a variety of trees, including teak, mahua, tendu, salai, and bamboo. The forest blooms with vibrant flowers during spring, enhancing its natural charm.
Fauna
Panna National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including:
- Royal Bengal Tigers
- Leopards
- Sloth Bears
- Chinkara (Indian Gazelle)
- Sambar Deer
- Indian Wolf
The park also boasts over 200 species of birds, including the Indian Vulture, Paradise Flycatcher, and Bar-headed Goose. The Ken River supports aquatic species such as gharial crocodiles and turtles.
Main Attractions
- Tiger Safari
The highlight of Panna National Park is its tiger safari. Spotting a Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat is an exhilarating experience. Safaris are conducted in open jeeps with experienced guides. - Ken River
The lifeline of the park, the Ken River offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and observing aquatic wildlife like crocodiles and waterfowl. - Pandav Falls
Located within the park, this picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is believed to have mythological significance linked to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. - Jhinna Jungle Camp
A serene spot for experiencing wilderness and birdwatching, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Timings and Days of Operation
- Opening Hours:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM
- Closed Days:
Panna National Park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to September) to ensure safety and preserve the ecosystem.
Ticket Fees
- Entry Fee:
- Indian Nationals: ₹40 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹500 per person
- Safari Charges (Per Jeep):
- Indian Nationals: ₹2,500
- Foreign Nationals: ₹5,000
(Each jeep accommodates up to 6 people.)
- Guide Fee: ₹300 (mandatory for all safaris)
- Camera Fee: ₹200 for still cameras and ₹500 for video cameras
Note: Prices are subject to revision by park authorities.
Booking Procedure
Visitors can book safari tickets through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department’s official website or at the Panna National Park Entrance Gate.
Steps to book:
- Visit the official website or authorized portal.
- Select your preferred safari slot (morning or evening).
- Provide identification details and the number of participants.
- Make the payment and receive a confirmation.
Tip: Online booking is recommended during peak seasons (October to March) to avoid last-minute unavailability.
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
- Khajuraho Airport (25 km from the park).
Nearest Railway Station
- Khajuraho Railway Station (28 km from the park).
By Road
Panna National Park is well-connected by road and can be reached via taxis or private vehicles from nearby cities like Khajuraho, Satna, and Jhansi.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Panna National Park is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Avoid the monsoon season (July-September) as the park remains closed.
Nearby Attractions
- Khajuraho Group of Monuments (25 km)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its intricately carved temples showcasing Indian art and architecture. - Raneh Falls (20 km)
A spectacular natural waterfall on the Ken River, surrounded by volcanic rock formations. - Ajaygarh Fort (35 km)
An ancient fort offering panoramic views of the Vindhya Range and an insight into the region’s history. - Ken Gharial Sanctuary (15 km)
A sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of gharials and other aquatic species.
Important Facts
- Conservation Efforts: Panna National Park is one of the finest examples of tiger reintroduction and conservation in India. From no tigers in 2009, the park now boasts a stable population, thanks to translocation and monitoring programs.
- UNESCO Recognition: In 2020, Panna National Park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its global ecological importance.
- Eco-Tourism: The park promotes sustainable tourism by involving local communities in conservation and hospitality efforts.
Guidelines for Visitors
- Follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and visitors.
- Avoid littering, loud noises, or disturbing animals.
- Wear comfortable clothing and carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and binoculars.
- Respect the instructions of your safari guide.
Panna National Park is a testament to India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re eager to see a tiger in the wild, explore ancient waterfalls, or soak in the tranquility of the Ken River, Panna promises an unforgettable experience.
Plan your visit to this enchanting destination and immerse yourself in the wonders of one of India’s most picturesque national parks!