Located in the heart of India, Satpura National Park is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature. Situated in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, this park is named after the Satpura range, which translates to “Seven Folds.” Known for its unique biodiversity, rugged terrains, and pristine beauty, Satpura is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Spread over an area of 1,427 square kilometers, the park forms a significant part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve and offers a rare opportunity to explore the wilderness through a variety of activities like jeep safaris, boat rides, and walking safaris.
History and Overview
Satpura National Park was established in 1981 to protect the diverse flora and fauna of the Satpura range. It is part of a larger conservation area that includes Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary. Unlike many other national parks in India, Satpura is relatively untouched by heavy tourism, allowing visitors to experience a more intimate connection with nature.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park is a treasure trove of rich vegetation, ranging from sal and teak forests to bamboo groves and medicinal plants. Other trees like mahua, tendu, and bel add to the park’s biodiversity.
Fauna
Satpura is home to a wide range of wildlife, including some rare and endangered species:
- Mammals: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, nilgai, chital, and wild boars.
- Birds: Over 300 species of birds, including Malabar pied hornbill, Indian paradise flycatcher, and crested serpent eagle.
- Reptiles: Marsh crocodiles, Indian rock pythons, and monitor lizards.
- Insects and Amphibians: The park also boasts an array of butterflies and frogs, enhancing its biodiversity.
Main Attractions
- Jeep Safari
The jeep safari is the most popular way to explore the park, taking you deep into the wilderness. The safaris operate in buffer and core zones and offer excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife. - Walking Safari
Satpura is one of the few national parks in India that allows walking safaris, offering a closer and more immersive experience with nature. - Boat Safari
A serene boat ride on the Denwa River offers stunning views of the park and a chance to spot aquatic wildlife like crocodiles and waterbirds. - Pachmarhi Hill Station
Part of the park, Pachmarhi is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a popular hill station with waterfalls, caves, and temples. - Camping and Nature Trails
Stay in eco-friendly lodges or campsites and enjoy guided nature walks to explore the smaller, intricate details of the park’s ecosystem.
Timings and Days of Operation
- Opening Hours:
- Morning Safari: 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- Closed Days:
- The park is closed during the monsoon season (July to mid-October). It is open from mid-October to June, with the best time to visit being from November to March.
Ticket Fees
- Jeep Safari:
- Indian Nationals: ₹2,500–₹3,000 per jeep (6 people)
- Foreign Nationals: ₹5,000 per jeep
- Walking Safari: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person
- Boat Safari: ₹1,500 per boat (shared basis)
- Camera Fee: ₹250 for still cameras and ₹500 for video cameras
Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the tour operator and government policies.
Booking Procedure
Tickets can be booked online via the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department’s official website or through authorized travel agents.
Steps to book:
- Visit the website and select Satpura Tiger Reserve under the national parks section.
- Choose your preferred date, safari type, and zone.
- Provide identification details (Aadhar card for Indian citizens; passport for foreigners).
- Make the payment online and download your booking confirmation.
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
- Raja Bhoj International Airport, Bhopal (190 km away).
Nearest Railway Station
- Itarsi Junction (70 km away) and Pipariya Railway Station (50 km away).
By Road
The park is well-connected by road and can be accessed via private cabs or buses from nearby cities like Bhopal, Hoshangabad, and Pachmarhi.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Satpura National Park is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent. The summer months of April to June are also good for spotting animals near waterholes but can be quite hot.
Nearby Attractions
- Pachmarhi Hill Station
A picturesque hill station known for its waterfalls, caves, and colonial architecture. Must-visit spots include Bee Falls, Jata Shankar Caves, and Dhupgarh (highest point in Madhya Pradesh). - Denwa Backwaters
An ideal spot for birdwatching and photography. - Bori Wildlife Sanctuary
Adjacent to Satpura, this sanctuary offers additional wildlife exploration opportunities. - Tawa Dam
A scenic spot located near the Tawa Reservoir, perfect for picnics and boat rides.
Important Facts
- Eco-Tourism Focus: Satpura National Park is renowned for promoting eco-tourism, making it an ideal destination for those who value sustainable travel.
- Limited Visitors: The park limits the number of vehicles entering the core area, ensuring a less crowded and more immersive experience.
- Walking Safari: It is one of the few parks in India where walking safaris are permitted.
- UNESCO Recognition: The park is part of the larger Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated area.
Satpura National Park is a hidden jewel in India’s rich natural heritage. With its unique blend of adventure, serenity, and biodiversity, it offers a refreshing alternative to the more crowded wildlife destinations. Whether you are trekking through dense forests, spotting tigers on a jeep safari, or enjoying the serenity of a boat ride, Satpura promises an unforgettable experience.
Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this majestic park!