Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of Madhya Pradesh

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh wildlife tours comprises of the excursions in the animal reserve forests and wildlife sanctuaries that are found in abundance in Madhya Pradesh. These tours are indeed a delight to the visitors, for it provides an array of the wildlife resources.

Madhya Pradesh wildlife tours chiefly imply a short trip to the national forests in order to get the feel of seeing the animals in their natural habitat. These reserve forests, unlike the real forests, are to a far extent designed by man; yet it gives the tourists a flavour of being at a forest.

Further, it can be said that Madhya Pradesh wildlife tours are chiefly organised at places like:
National Parks:

• Bandhavgarh National Park
• Kanha National Park
• Madhav National Park
• Sanjay National Park
• Satpuda National Park
• Van Vihar National Park, etc.

                                                             
Sanctuaries:

• Karera Wildlife Sanctuary
• Ralamanda Wildlife Sanctuary
• Son Ghariya Wildlife Sanctuary
• Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary
• Panchmari Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary
• Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kheoni Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.

Besides the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, Madhya Pradesh wildlife tours largely depend on the wildlife resorts. These resorts are instrumental in increasing the number of tourists who come every year to spend quality time amidst the natural beauty. Some of such resorts that deserve special mention are:

• Sher Bagh, Ranthambore
• Kabini River Lodge
• Wild Chalet Resort, Kanah
• Ken River Lodge, Panna
• Spice Village Hotel
• Hornbill's Nest, Corbett, etc.

Some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are discussed below.

Karera Wildlife Sanctuary

The Karera Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh is well scattered over an area that measures about 202 square kilometers with respect to the vast span of landscape it covers. It is situated at a distance of approximately 55 kilometers from the region named as Shivpuri.

The Karera Wildlife Sanctuary is indeed a bird-viewer's paradise as the sanctuary houses an entire caboodle of avian creatures that includes the extremely rare Indian Bustard which is facing the grave danger of being completely wiped out from the face of our planet. The Karera Wildlife Sanctuary is reckoned as one of the ultimate asylums for this marvelous bird.

This sanctuary houses an astounding three separate taxonomic categories of the scintillating creatures namely the Indian Bustard, the Bearded Bustard and the Colored Bustard. Other attractions at the Karera Wildlife Sanctuary are listed below:-

• It provides shelter to an absolutely amazing 245 different species of birds like Teals, Herons, Indian Robins, Pintails and Gadwalls.

• A large number of water birds like Egrets, Spoonbills and Black -Bellied River Terns are found here.

• Migratory birds also seek institution in the Karera Wildlife Sanctuary as they flock together near the Dihaila Jheel inside the sanctuary's proximity almost every single year.

• Except birds, as many as 2000 Black Bucks and a fairly large number of the Indian gazelle are also seen here.

The apt time to observe the majestic birds in their natural habitat here is from the month of November to the month of March. Binoculars and photography equipments are a must for the visitants. Closest railway station is Jhansi which is situated at a distance of 44 kilometers.

Ken Gharial Sanctuary

The Ken Gharial Sanctuary is one of the very limited number of sanctuaries in India that is sincerely dedicated to breeding programs and proper housing of Gharials, a cousin of the mighty crocodiles. They are sometimes referred to as 'Indian Gharials' or 'Gavials'. They are characterised by their exceedingly elongated and unbelievably slender snouts that invariably demarcates them from their evolutionary contemporaries, the crocodiles. The Ken Gharial Sanctuary is positioned at the rendezvous point of the twin rivers, namely, Ken and Khudar. Being positioned inside the premises of the Chattarpur district approximately 24 kilometers away from Khajuraho, it is a popular destination that is frequently visited by animal enthusiasts.

The Gharial, chief attraction of the Ken Gharial Sanctuary is a rare breed of reptiles. Although they share a common line of evolutionary descent with the crocodiles, they are deficient in the robust jaw power and sheer skull strength that is vested to the crocodiles. But on the other hand the Gharials are proficient in trapping down wee fishes and supple body movements that is rarely seen in crocodiles. The Gharials of this Madhya Pradesh sanctuary are recorded to have grown to an astounding length of 6 meters. Other species that can also be seen in the Ken Gharial Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh are mentioned below:-

• Chinkara
• Cheetal
• Wild Boar
• Blue Bull or Nilgai
• Peacock

Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary

Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh is located in the vicinity of the famous Bandhavgarh national park. It has one of the richest wealth of varied flora and fauna in the whole of Madhya Pradesh. It is inhabited by a wide variety of animals and plants. Tigers are the main attractions of Madhya Pradesh's Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary. However jackals, wild dog, chital, sambhar, blue bull, porcupine and the amazing chausinghas are some of the other animals that inhabit in this forest. However, avid bird-lovers also have a lot to cheer about during their stay in Panpatha. A wide variety of birds live in the deep woods.

The terrain of Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary is low and flat unlike the hilly Bandhavgarh. However, it is the home for some of the most majestic trees. Huge and ancient sals share their space with great acacias. Mahua, saja, dhwanda, bel and khair are some of the other major trees of the area, not to speak of the bamboo and tendu groves who also add to the deep vegetation of the area.

Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary

Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh is a sanctuary that covers a wide area of 41.80 square kilometers. The wildlife sanctuary is situated alongside the sacred river of Sone and is inhabited by some of the rarest species of Indian wildlife. Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh was declared as a protected wildlife sanctuary in 1981. It is primarily devoted to the protection and breeding of gharials, a member of the crocodile family that is exclusively found in the water bodies of India. The waters of Sone however is a home to many other animals besides the gharials, alligators and crocodiles of various species and are the greatest attractions. It is not often that one comes across some of these beautiful and exotic animals here. Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary provides one with a rare opportunity to do so. Rare species of turtles can also be seen on the banks and the waters of the river. The great numbers of birds are a perpetual attraction of the Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. Many of these birds are migratory and come from faraway lands. Many wildlife enthusiasts come to Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary to catch a glimpse of them. Sone Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is also well known for the great number of birds that inhabit in the forest.

Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary

Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh. Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1981 with the primary aim to protect and help increasing the number of the great Indian bustard. The number of this majestic bird has been decreasing steadily over the years and now there seems only a few left.

Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh, along with Karera Wildlife Sanctuary, was one of the few places where these extremely rare birds could be seen. Now with few great Indian bustards left in Karera, the onus largely lies on Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary to protect these grand species from extinction. The future does not look bright for these majestic birds because with a steady decrease in their suitable habitat and continuous poaching, their numbers have gone down remarkably in the past few years. However, the officials of Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary work tirelessly to protect them. Because it now seems to be the only place where the bird can be possibly spotted in the wild,Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is often referred to as the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary. A great number of migratory birds too come here in the period of November and stay here all through the winter.

Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary

Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sindh district of Madhya Pradesh. It was established in the year 1978 and is spread over an area of approximately 478 square kilometers.

The Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary has an extremely dense dry deciduous mixed forest and harbors a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary is maintained by the government of Madhya Pradesh and considered as one of the unique protected area of the state.

In the dry deciduous mixed forest of the Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh various kind of trees like tall teak trees, orchids, mango groves and gigantic creepers are predominant. Today, the Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is the natural habitat of more than hundred species of plants and wild animals.

The forest of the Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh is the breeding ground of some of the rare wild animals such as:

• Tiger
• Panther
• Sambar deer
• Chinkara
• Cheetal
• Black buck
• Wild boar
• Hyenas

The Bagdara Wildlife Sanctuary at Madhya Pradesh is open for public. The best season to visit here is from November to June. The principal flora that dominates the forest of the Bagdara Sanctuary are as follows:

• Tendu
• Dhawda
• Khjair
• Lendia and more.

Madhav National Park

The Madhav National Park is dispersed over a pulsating plot that measures an amazing 156 square kilometers.

It was originally the shooting reserve of the Maharaja who belonged to Gwalior and came into existence in the year 1958 with the name, Shivpuri National Park. The Madhav National Park is situated at the base of the vast Vindhyan Range and also contains a placid lake that is situated inside its premises. As the forest comprises of a majestic blend of lush grasslands, deciduous trees and small stony hills, it presents an ample scope for the creatures of different varieties to flourish.
The Madhav National Park is protected under the influence of the Wildlife Protection Act that came into effect in the year 1972. Special attractions here are listed below:-

• Chinkara
• Indian Gazelle
• Chital
• Nilgai
• Sambar
• Chausingha also regarded as the Four-horned Antelope
• Black Buck
• Sloth Bear
• Leopard
• Langur
• Striped Hyena
• Jackel
• Jungle Cat
• Crocodiles and others

The Madhav National Park of Madhya Pradesh can also be a scintillating destination for the bird enthusiasts as it is full of mind-boggling varieties of birds which will enchant you. The avifauna that prevails here is truly spectacular. Some of the varieties frequently seen in this park include:-

• Red Wattled lapwing
• Large Pied Wagtail
• Pond Heron
• White-breasted Kingfisher
• Cormorant
• Painted stork
• White Ibis
• Laggar falcon
• Purple Sunbird
• Paradise Flycatcher
• Golden Oriole

Panna National Park

The Panna National Park is sited at length of approximately 57 kilometers from the evergreen venue of the Khajuraho and hence situated in the central realm of the state of Madhya Pradesh. It cherishes the reputation of being one of the most popular reserves in India that is engaged in the protection of the charismatic emperor of all the animals, the tiger. Other attractions at the Panna National Park include the pristine deer and the mysterious antelopes. It is sited at length of approximately 57 kilometers from the evergreen venue of the Khajuraho and hence situated in the central realm of the state of Madhya Pradesh. The Panna National Park cherishes the reputation of being one of the most popular reserves in India that is engaged in the protection of the charismatic emperor of all the animals, the tiger. Other attractions at the Park include the pristine deer and the mysterious antelopes. The distinctive flora of this place is characterised by the presence of Tectona grandis, Anogeissus pendula, Anogeissus latifolia, Bichnania latifolia, Diospyros melanoxylon, Bosswelia serrata and many other spectacular species.

Other attractions of the Panna National Park of Madhya Pradesh are listed below:-

• Wild Dog
• Caracal
• Leopard
• Chital
• Chowsingha
• Deer
• Sloth Bear
• Wolf
• Hyena
• Chinkara
• Nilgai

Pench National Park

The Pench National Park belongs to the southern fringes of the state of Madhya Pradesh and is blessed by the presence of the placid river named Pench that makes its way through the heart of this National Park. It is needless to mention that the name of the Pench National Park was coined after the river's name. The Pench National Park stretches across a sprawling landscape that measures approximately 758 square kilometers. It is gorged with tropical deciduous woods and also comprises of a mesh work of wee streams and 'nallahs' that run through this National Park. The Pench reservoir also serves as the primary outlet of water for the creatures of the Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh.

Special attractions of the Pench National Park of Madhya Pradesh:-

• Leopards
• Indian Civets
• Languors
• Wild Dogs
• Rhesus Monkeys
• Palm Civets
• Cheetal
• Sambar
• Nilgai
• Pea Fowl
• Red Jungle Fowl

Satpura National Park

The state of Madhya Pradesh is distinctly spanned by the Satpura National Park that is virtually embedded in the craggy surface of the Mahadeo Hills positioned in the Satpura Range. It is inside the premises of the district of Hoshangabad well dispersed over an incredibly large plot that measures approximately 524.27 square kilometers.

The Satpura National Park made its presence felt in the year 1981. The soul-stirring panoramic view of National Park that grips the visitors in an intense state trance is attributed to the exquisite blend of emerald blue rivers, deep valleys, high mountains, mesmerizing waterfalls and especially the extensive reservoirs belonging to Tawa.

Attractions of the Satpura National Park are listed below:-

• Tiger
• Gaur
• Leopard
• Indian Giant Squirrel
• Samber
• Sloth Bear
• Chital
• Barking Deer
• Wild Boar
• Marsh Crocodile
• Langur
• Nilgai
• Hyena
• Wild Dogs
• Porcupine
• Pangolin
• Malabar Pied Horn bills
• Crested Serpent Eagles
• Honey Buzzards

Bandhavgarh National Park
Map of Bandhavgarh National Park

The prime tourist attraction in Bandhavgarh is the Bandhavgarh National Park. The reserve named after the highest hill Bandhavgarh (807 m) in the center of it, falls between the Vindhya hill range and the eastern flank of Satpura hill range and is located in Shahdol and Jabalpur districts of Madhya Pradesh.

Bandhavgarh is one of the remaining havens for the pride of Indian wildlife-the Royal Bengal Tiger. This is also known as White Tiger territory. These have been found in the old state of Rewa for many years.

How to Reach Bandhavgarh

It is easy to reach Bandhavgarh, famous for its tigers and adventure tourism.

By Air

The nearest airports are Khajuraho and Jabalpur, which are air linked with the major cities of India. Perhaps the most convenient to take the air route to Khajuraho from where it is about a six-hour drive (280Km) to Bandhvagarh National Park. The drive though long affords the pleasure of traveling through interesting places like the Panna town, famous for its diamond mines and by the Ken River, which has a crocodile sanctuary.

By Train

Bandhavgarh can be reached from a number of railway stations near Bandhavgarh-Jabalpur (170 kms), Katni (102 kms), Satna (112 kms) on the central railway and Umaria (35kms) on the southeastern railway.

By Road

You can reach Bandhavgarh from Jabalpur (3-4 hrs), Satna (3.5hrs), Katni (2.5), Kanha (7hrs), Katni (2.5hrs) and Khajuraho (6hrs). Bandhavgarh is located equidistance from the city of Jabalpur and world famous tourist spot of Khajuraho. Both state and private transport buses ply between all these places and Bandhavgarh.

History of Bandhavgarh

Bandhavgarh boasts of a long history with references to it, which can be traced to the ancient books, the Narad-panch Ratra and the Shiv Purana. Legend has it that Lord Rama, hero of the epic, Ramayana stopped at stopped at Bandhavgarh on his way back to his homeland after defeating the demon King Ravana of Lanka. Two monkey architects, who had engineered a bridge between the isles of Lanka and the mainland, are said to have built Bandhavgarh's fort. Later Rama handed it over to his brother Lakshmana who became known as Bandhavdhish "The Lord of the Fort". Lakshmana is the particular

God of the fort and is regularly worshipped in a temple there.

Bandhavgarh was ruled by a by a succession of dynasties but lost its importance in the 17th century with the shifting of court life to Rewa. Without royal patronage Bandhavgarh became more and more deserted until forest overran the area and it became the royal hunting reserve. At independence Bandhavgarh remained the private property of the Maharaja until he gave it to the state for the formation of the National Park in 1968. After the park was created poaching was brought under control and the number of animals rose dramatically.

Small dams and water holes were built to solve the problem of water shortage. Grazing by local cattle was stopped and the village within the park boundaries was relocated. The Tigers in particular prospered and the 1986 extension provided much needed forest to accommodate them. Bandhavgarh has been an excellent habitat of tiger and is known for the highest density of tigers in the world. Considering the importance and potentiality of the National park, it was included in the Project Tiger Network in 1993. The adjoining Panpatha Sanctuary too was declared as a part of the Reserve.

Bandhavgarh Fort and National Park

There are 32 hills in this part of the park, which has a large natural fort at its center. The fort's cliffs are 2625 feet (800 meters) high, 1000 feet (300 meters) above the surrounding countryside. The fort still belongs to the Maharaja of Rewa and permission is required to visit it. However permission is available locally and no trip to Bandhavgarh is complete without making an effort to climb up the fort .The natural ramparts of the fort give breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.. The fort has a small population of Blackbuck, which have been reintroduced and to some extent protected from Tigers in the park below by repairs to the masonry walls at the edges of the fort. Thus Bandhavgarh offers excellent game and bird viewing and a historical interest which most other parks lack.

Flora and Fauna in Bandhavgarh

Much of the park is covered in Sal forest, replaced by mixed forests in the higher elevations of the hills. There are extensive stands of bamboo and grasslands.

Generally the forests are less dense here, thus offering better sightings of wildlife, notably mammals, including the daylight sightings of Tigers in the grassy 'maidans'.

Bandhavgarh is justifiably famous for its Tigers, but it has a wide range of other game. Other inhabitants of the park include the Muntajac, Jungle Cat, Ratel, Jyena, Porcupine, the Rhesus Macaque and the back-faced Langur. The park also has numerous ancient caves and rock shelters, with shrines and inscriptions. About 150 species of birds known from the Tala area are also found over here including the Brown Fish Owl, Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Malabar Pied Hornbill and Shahin Falcon.

Excursions from Bandhavgarh

Excursions can be made from Bandhavgarh to the nearest village of Tala. Apart from buying essentials you can also visit the Bhaghela Museum, which is part of the private collection of the Maharaja of Rewa. There is the famed stuffed white tiger, Mohan, other exhibits include military and hunting paraphernalia, a carved ivory and silver chess set and an extravagant swing bench made of Belgian cut glass and silver.

Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park Map

The Jabalpur-Kanha National Forest Reserve tours provide the wanderlust driven traveller the fascinating opportunity to discover the diverse natural heritage of central India. Located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh's Mandla district at a distance of 145 km from Jabalpur city, the excursions from Jabalpur to Kanha National Forest is a must see destination on a Central Indian sojourn.

Kanha National park was accorded the distinguished status of a national park in the year 1955. The sanctuary encompasses an area of approximately 1940 sq. km and is famed for housing several endemic species of wild animals. Another claim to the wildlife reserve's fame rests in its Tiger Reserve project. The picturesque sanctuary, enveloped in dense natural foliage is located amid a horseshoe shaped valley and is fringed by the Mekal range. In fact, it was the Kanha National Park that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write the classic Jungle Book. Besides tigers, leopards, bears, chital, sambhar, barasingha, black buck as well as the swamp deer inhabit the glades of the sanctuary.

Kanha National Park is the home of 22 species of mammals and over 200 variegated groups of birds and reptiles. The sanctuary is shrouded by tall grasslands and occasionally speckled by the colourful bloom of orchids. The other highlight of the Kanha National Forest Reserve is the spectacular sunset point, the Bamni Dadar which illustrates nature at its best.

In fact, a visit to the Kanha National Park as well as Jabalpur, the 'city of marble rocks' opens up a treasure trove of fantastic tourist delights.

Places to See in Kanha

The most popular tourist attraction in Kanha is the Kanha National Park. Located in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh Kanha is considered to be the best maintained tourist friendly park in India. Kanha is supposed to have been the inspiration and setting for the Indian novels of Rudyard Kipling, especially the popular Jungle Book. In 1955 the Kanha Park was converted into a National Park. With the launching of the 'Project Tiger', the park was declared a tiger reserve in 1974.Today Kanha is among the few most scenic and beautiful wildlife reserves in Asia.

Kanha National Park is open from November to June, with each season imparting its own beauty to the park. The highpoint of your visit would be the unique privilege of sitting atop an elephant and watching the fascinating Royal Bengal tiger in its natural surroundings.

While on the tiger trail you are bound to come across other animals in the open grassy meadows. Kanha National Park also has the Kanha Museum within the premises of the park. It displays the functions of the park and also has exhibits, which portray the tribal culture of the state of Madhya Pradesh.

How to Reach Kanha

One can reach Kanha by air, rail or road.

By Air

Nagpur, which is about 266kms away, is the nearest airport.

By Train

Jabalpur is the nearest railway station and is at a distance of 175 kms.

By Road

There are regular buses from Jabalpur to Kanha.Taxis are also available for hire from Jabalpur, Bilaspur and Raipur.

Tourist Destination Near Kanha

Excursions can be made from Kanha National Park to places in and around Kanha. Bamni Dadar, also known as Sunset Point, is one of the most beautiful areas of the park, which affords the spectacular delight of watching a sunset. It also gives a beautiful view of the luxuriant Kanha forests. Animals can also be sighted from here. On your way to Kanha or back you can stop at Nagpur, located at a distance of 260 kms from Kanha National Park. Nagpur is an ancient city which has a number of interesting temples, forts and parks worth visiting. Nagpur is also the orange city, known for its orange orchards. Jabalpur is also another city, which is at a distance of 145 kms via mandla and is known for historical and archeological sites. Jabalpur is also famous for its highly revered Tilwara ghat where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed.

Madhav National Park

One of the major wildlife parks in the district, Madhav National Park was once a famous hunting spot for the Gwalior royal family and later, the British. The park is spread over an area of 157 sq km and houses rich fauna and fauna in their true and natural habitats. The park has also a rich variety of avian species, perfect for bird-watchers. 

You'll find several activities within the park premises, making your visit here just that much more unforgettable. One of them is the Sakhya Sagar Boat Club, which offers colourful views of the birds in the park. Apart from this, the George Castle offers marvelous views of the entire park, along with the glorious, golden sunsets.

The park is open to visitors throughout the year, but make sure to plan your trip in accordance with the park timings. You can either take the morning slot, between 6.30 am to 10 am, or the afternoon slot, between 2.30 pm to 6.00 pm. The park also has the facilities of expert guides at the cost of INR 50. The journey through the neatly built roads inside the park, with the wilderness to keep you company, is an experience which you will never forget.

Sanjay National Park Madhya Pradesh

Sanjay National Park

Sanjay National Park is located in the Sidhi district of Madhya Pradesh state, India. It is a part of the Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve. It covers an area of 466.7 square kilometers. The nearest city to the Park is Sidhi. This Park was established in the year 1981. Sanjay National Park was erstwhile known as Guru Ghasidas National Park, covering a large area of 1440 square kilometers. In the year 2000, a division was made through this Park and a huge part was given away to Chhattisgarh state. In the undivided protected area, 5 tigers were sighted in the year 2010. The Park has tremendous potential for further development, estimated by the Madhya Pradesh government. December to March is the best time to visit the Park, in a pleasant climate.

Satpura National Park

Satpura National Park is located in district Hoshangabad of Madhya Pradesh in India. It gets the name from Satpura hill ranges (Mahadeo hills). It is located near the capital city of Madhya Pradesh i.e. Bhopal. It covers an area of 524 km². Satpura National Park, and along with the adjoining Bori and Panchmarhi Sanctuaries, provides 1427 km² of unique Central Indian Highland ecosystem. It was set up in 1981 mainly for the conservation of Tigers, the national animal of India. The terrain of the national park is extremely rugged and consists of fascinating deep valleys, sandstone peaks, narrow gorges, rivulets, waterfalls, thickly dense green forest of Sal and other medicinal herbs and Tawa vast reservoir. Un-even altitude ranges from 290m. to 1352 m. Highest peak of national park is in Satpura National Park i.e. Dhoopgarh at an altitude of 4500 feets(1400 m.). As it is the highest peak of Madhya Pradesh, sunlight reaches this peak earlier than anyother landscape of Madhya Pradesh. Being a part of unique eco-system, Satpura National Park is very rich in bio-diversity. Its fauna comprises Spotted Dear, Indian Bison(Gaur), Tigers, Leopards, Wild boar, Wild dog (locally called Dholes), Sloth bear, Black buck (unique attraction), Porcupine, Sambhar, four Horned antelopes (Chowsingha), Smooth otter, Pangolin, Marsh crocodile, Languars etc. Indian Giant squirrel is the special feature of Satpura National Park as it is rare in India now. Sighting of Leopards, Gaurs, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear is good in compare to other national parks of Central India. Bird-watching in Satpura National Park is great. Here very frequently we can see variety of birds during stay and safari. Tiger sighting of this national park is not so impressive as compare to nearby Bandhavgarh, Kanha or Pench national parks. So it is required when we go for jungle safari in national park, we should no go with single mindset of tiger-sighting but enjoy sighting all members of national park as they are equally share the jungle with tigers and are extremely beautiful creatures of nature. Bio-diversity of national park is stunning with over 1300 species of plants. Flora of national park includes teak, sal, tendu, mahua (Indian butter-tree), bel (stone-apple), bamboos, grasses, bushes, unchecked grown lantanas and other many medicinal plants whose details are not available now. It is said that in majority of jungle we can judge that sal is the prominent flora of National Park.

ABOUT SATPURA

GENRAL INFORMATION

Satpura is surrounded by hills so the weather is very pleasant here throughout the year. The temperature is never above 37 degrees during summers and below 7 degrees during winters. The best season to visit this place is between Januray to June. About Satpura National Park Lush green carpet, spread over 524 sq. kms of area in Stapura hill ranges (Mahadeo hills), Satpura National Park lies in Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, Central India. Adjoining to famous hill station Pachmarhi, Satpura Tiger Reserve, on encompassing, Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary (estd in 1977, area= 417 sq. kms.)and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary (estd in 1975, area= 646 sq. kms.)Makes 1427 sq. km. area, ideal place for some rare wildlife species and medicinal trees. In the year 1981, Satpura National Park was established with an area of 524 sq. km. recently in May, 2009 it became in news due to arrival of a new generation of tigers in cradle of Satpura hills. It is spread over different altitudes ranging from 300 meters to 1350 meters. It is still believed to be untouched and unspoiled wildlife sanctuary. Tiger reserve is offers panoramic view of nature at its best with rocky mountain peaks, gorges, gurgling waterfalls, sparkling stream, dense deep valleys, rivulets etc. This unexplored hill station was first explored by Captain James Forsyth of British Army in 1857. It became a sanatorium for British troops in the Central Provinces of India. During that time Captain James was leading a cavalry regiment that moved from Jabalpur army base towards Satpura hills in search of freedom fighters. Satpura National Park is the only Tiger Reserve in Central India that offers Nature Walk inside Tiger Reserve to feel the nature from close. Such nature walk is in group of 4 visitors accompanied by trained wildlife expert who can ensure comfort and safety of associates.

WHAT TO SEE

Satpura & Bori abound in Central Province wildlife. The bio-diversity is stunning with over 1300 species of plants, which include numerous rare bryophytes and pteridophytes. While Sal & Teak forests are abundant, Central India mixed deciduous forests covers a major part of the area. An evident eyesore is the rampant and unchecked growth of Lantana. The meadows and valleys have been completely taken over by this invader. The terrain, which is covered by some of the oldest Sal & Teak forests in India, is home to 50 mammal species, 254 bird species & 30 species of reptiles. The Tiger, Gaur, Leopard, Indian Giant Squirrel, Sambar, Sloth Bear, Chital, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Rhesus Monkey, Langur, Nilgai, Hyena, Wild Dogs, Smooth Otter, Pangolin, Porcupine, Marsh Crocodile, Ratel, Four Horned Antelope and many other species of wildlife are seen. Birds are everywhere and Malabar Pied Hornbills, Crested Serpent Eagles, Crested Hawk Eagles, Honey Buzzards, Paradise Flycatchers, Pittas, Thrushes, Peafowl, Pheasants fill the air with their calls.

ATTRACTION

Cahuragarh Dhupgarh- These are two separate hills in Pachmarhi. From here one can watch the spectacular Sunrise and Sunset. The ancient Shiva temple of Cahuragarh is also worth seeing. The Sunrise at Dhupgarh leaves one mesmerised. One can also spend one night at Dhupgarh. B-Falls - About 3 kms from Pachmarhi is a very beautiful waterfall called the B Falls. Its about half a kilometer below Pachmarhi. One gets the feeling that molten silver is being poured from this fall. Falling from a height of 150 feet these falls provide an ideal refuge to the body and mind. Jatashankar - 1.5 kilometer from the bus stand are the natural caves of Jatashankar. These caves display the unique architecture of nature. At Jatashankar there is pool between two rocks and another rock is suspended without any support. This natural spectacle has enthralled the visitor from times immemorable. This place is also very popular among the director and producers of films. Pandav caves - These caves are considered to be carved out during the Buddha period. Mythology supports this version of the historians by saying that during Mahabaharata era the five Pandav brothers had spend few years in exile here. There are five temples made in their honour. Mahadev - This cave is 30 meter long and water is always seeping inside the cave. The source of this water has been traced to a water fall. In the middle of the cave is a small pool of water. Inside the cave is a Shivaling (Phallus). Here on every Shivratri a fair is held and about 4-5 lakh devotees throng this place. During the first war of Independence Tatiya Tope had reassembled his army here. Nearby Mahadev are the caves of Gupt Mahadev. Though nature has provided Pachmarhi with immense beauty and there are many places to go around. Hadi Koh, Richgarh, Apsara Vihar, Daurithi Deep, Rajendra giri, Rajat Pratap, roman Catholic Church, Little Fall are some of the places which one should not miss if he goes to Pachmarhi. Tamiya - Tamiya is more beautiful than Pachmarhi and is totally unvisited by tourists. The Sunset point at Tamiya is place where you can sit for hours and enjoy the setting sun. This experience cannot be matched by any other thing. The stay at almost a century old government rest house and watching the natural beauty of the Satpura hills gives you a feeling that there is nothing than the hills in this world. You are bound to be lost in the scintillating beauty of the Satpura hills here. Tamiya has good and low budget hotels. The PWD rest house and the forest department guest house have good accommodation facility. To reach Tamiya one can hire Jeeps from Pachmarhi but there are private and government bus services for Tamiya. Though the Pachmarhi is an unexploited tourist destination, one should always keep an eye for the touts. Though the weather here is pleasant one should carry warm cloths during winters and light warm cloths during the summer seasons

LOCATION

The Satpura hill range is one of the major geographical plateaus of India. The Dhoopgarh peak (1352 m above msl) located at Pachmarhi hill station is the highest point in the Satpura hill range. The TR consists of hill ranges, valleys, plains, deep gorges and water bodies providing a verity of habitats for different kinds of wildlife. The TR forms a junction of different forest types occurring in the State. The area is also rich in bio-cultural diversity. This TR consists of the following three units:

HISTORICAL

The area is known as a part of the Gondwana tract after the Gond tribe, who chiefly inhabited in this area and practiced shifting cultivation. In the fourteenth and fifteenth century, this area of Gonds was infiltrated by Rajputs and who, by the time of Mougals, had succeeded in reclaiming several parts of the Narmada valley for agriculture. The Gonds were pushed to higher plateaus and slopes to continue hunting and their shifting cultivation. This area saw unrest due to the tension between the Marathas and the Mougals during the seventeenth and eighteenth century. During the year 1818, the area saw the advent of British rule. In the year 1861, the forest Department was set up in the central provinces under Captain GF Pearson of the Madras Army, with Captain J. Forsyth of Bengal staff Corps, as one of his assistants. In 1862, the forest Department of the central provinces started in a building named Bison Lodge in Pachmarhi. The original house no longer exists, but at the same spot, another building has been constructed, which is also called Bison lodge and has been converted into a forest museum under the Satpura NP.

LANDFORM AND WATER AVILABILITY

The Satpura TR consists of areas with vast topographical variations. The general configuration of the area is hilly having undulating terrain with precipitous slopes at places. Several areas in the Pachmarhi plateau including the Mahadeo hills have deep and narrow gorges. There is a considerable altitudinal variation ranging from 320m to 1352 m above MSL. The Satpura hill ranges run east to west and the Panchmarhi plateau is in the center of the reserve. The Panchmarhi hills have steep slopes in the north and in the south. Some of the hilly areas are Jambudweep, Dhoopgarh, Handikho, Mahadeo, Chauragarh and Bee Fall. Among these, Dhoopgarh is the highest point (1352 m above MSL) in the state. The interior of these hills consists of a series of hill ranges cut up by streams due to their fragile rocks and soils. About 60 km2 of the Panchmarhi plateau consists of deep gorges having many waterfalls, marshy places, perennial steams and hills of various elevations. In many places, even sunrays are unable to reach. The Tawa reservoir created by a dam on the Tawa river is located on the north-western side of the park. The backwater of this reservoir spreads far into the channels of the Tawa, Naini, Sonbhadra, Denwa and Wagdwari rivers providing water resources in the Bori WLS and Satpura NP. Due to the Tawa reservoir, which extends over an area of 204 Sq. Km, water availability is much better in Satpura NP and the western part of the Bori WLS. The availability of water is limited in the Panchmarhi plateau, forming a part of the Panchmarhi WLS. Most part of the Satpura TR exhibits a wide variety of rock and soil formations. The Panchmarhi plateau enjoys a moderate climate during the summer, heavy rains and cloudy climate during the rainy season and cold climate during the winters. The Bori area receives about 2000 mm rain fall, while some of the plateau area receives only 1200 mm rainfall annually.

FFlora: Satpura Tiger Reserve is bestowed with biological diversity of different forest types ranging from dry thorn forest to tropical dry deciduous, moist deciduous and semi evergreen forests. There is a considerable variation in the vegetation due to immense heterogeneity of soil, geology, temperature and moisture conditions. The forests may be broadly classified into

• Tropical dry deciduous
• Tropical moist deciduous and
• Sub-tropical forests. On the basis of composition, three major type are identified, viz teak, Sal and mixed forests.

Teak bearing forest occur in areas having a rainfall of 1500 mm to 2000 mm particularly in central swell as south western part of Bori WLS . These forests are in good form in Bori, Dhain, Kajiri, Churna and Rampur areas. The slopes of hills and vallys are occupied by a good growth of bamboo as an under storey. The main species of bamboo are bans (Dendrocalamus strictus) and katang bans (Banboosa arundinacea), katang bans occurs, along streams, Dendrocalamus strictus occurs in comparatively drier areas. B. polymorpha also occurs in Bori WLS as an understorey. The other Three species occurring in these forests are saja 9Terminalia alata), tendu (Diospyrous melanoxylon), achar (Buchanani, lanzn), haldu (Adina cordifolia), bija (pterocarpus marsumpium), mahua (Madhuca latifolia), kusum (Schleichera oleosa), lendia (lagerstromia parviflora), pula (kydia calycina), jamun (syzygium cumini) and tinsa (Ougeinia oojeinensis). A large number of shrubs and herbs occupy the understory, many of them are of high medicinal value. Some important grasses and edges include Apluda varia, Eragrostis viscos, cyperusiria, Themeda quadrivalvis, Heteropogon contortus, Dicanthium annulatum etc. Dry teak forests are localized in part of Panchmarhi WLS. These forests are associated with dhawara (Anogenissus latifolia), tedu (Diospytos melanoxylon), amaltas (Cassia fistula), faldu (Mytragyana parvifolia), and salai (Boswelia serrata). In the lower canopy , species like , Nyctanthus arbortristis, woodforida fruiticosa , Helectris isora, Grewia hirsute, Indigofera pulchella, Carissa spinarum and Holarrheba antidysenterica predominate. Sal (Shorea robusta) forests also occur in Pachmarhi plateau. The associate of sal forest are almost the same as described in teak forests. The occurrence of sal is ecologically an important feature of these Tiger Reserve. Pure forests of anjan (Hardwickia binata) and bhirra (Chloroxylon sweitenia) occure in some pockets of plateau. These forests contain Syzygium cumini, Cassia fistula, Terminlia alata, Anogeissus latifolla, Eliodendrum glaucum, Cosearia tomentosa, atrema Orientalis, Bombax, ceiba, Kydia cylicina etc A part of Panchmarhi plateau consists of deep gorges with perennial streams, which provid a environment for the luxuriant growth of several moisture loving plants like ferns, orchids, bryophytes, algae and several herbs having immense ecological and economical value. These areas are considered as gene bank of rare and endangered species. Over 48 species of fern and several species of fern allies are found in these areas. Important ferns occurring inthese areas include Psilotum triquetra, Isoetes panchanaii, selaginlla exigual Cythea gigantia, Polybotrya etc. Marsilia quadrifolia, water fern grows in Panarpanivalley, Bee fall, Kajri and Nagdwari. Drosera an insectivorous species occurs in many damp places.

FAUNA

Satpura Tiger Reserve is traditionally rich area in wildlife. Upto about 19th century, the area hea had a rich population of major animals like panthers, tiger, elephants, bison, wild buffaloes and barasingha. But fast deterioration of wildlife habitat led to the disappearance of many of these species, most of the areas of Satpura Tiger Reserve are covered with dense forests. However, there are several open patches and grasslands providing Ideal habitat for the wild animals. Tiger, the main species is found in the Tiger Reserve in good numbers but remains confined in good forest areas. Panthers are found all over the reserve. Gaurs the largest herbivore, are in large number but are largely localized in moist and semi-moist forests of Bori WLS and Satpura NP.Sambar, Chital, barking deer, chin Kara and mouse deer are distributed all over the reserve. Chausingha or four horned antelope and nilgai are found throughout the area. However, the sighting of barking deer and four horned antelope are not common. Nilgai are found concentrated in drier parts of the Reserve. Sloth bear is also frequently seen in forests rich in fruit trees particularly mahua, tendu and achar. These animals are more frequently seen in Sonbhadravalley. Langurs are common throughout the Reserve. Rhesus monkeys are localized at Pachmarhi particularly close to habitation. Wild dog or dhole and wolf are also found in the Reserve. Civet, common fox, jackal and jungle cat are found throughout the Reserve. Wild boars are seen in plenty throughout the Reserve. Giant squirrels and flying squirrels are also seen in the Reserve. Giant squirrels are found all along the nala and rivers around Pachmarhi, Bori, Dhain and Churna. Among reptiles, cobra, Russel viper, python, chameleon and common Indian monitor are found in large numbers throughout the Park. Crocodiles are also found in water bodies of the Reserve. Water bodies of the Reserve are rich in fish fauna; the fish fauna include Notopterus notopterous, Catla catla, labeo rohita, L. rohita, Cirrhnus mrigala, C. reba, Rita rita, and several others. There are other amphibia like frogs, toads, etc. Which have not been properly studied. The avi-fauna of the Reserve have not been systematically studied. A large number of birds are found in the area. Some common species include jungle fowls, quails, partridges, pigeons, doves, parakeets, bee eaters, king fisher’s, wood peakers, owls, warblers myna, munia, bulbull, paradise fly catcher, sparrows, egrets, vultures, falcon, eagle and several others.

The Reserve is an ideal place for the bird watchers. Several water birds are also seen in water bodies of the Reserve. A large verity of butterflies, moths and other insects are seen in the tiger Reserve.

Van Vihar National Park

NTRODUCTION

Van Vihar is National Park located adjacent to Upper Lake of Bhopal city at Madhya Pradesh in Central India. It is spread over an area of 4.43 sq. km. area and was declared as a National Park in year 1983. Although it is a declared National Park, but on visit you will find it more a Zoological Park. It has been developed and managed as a zoological park in which wild animals were caged in a their natural surrounding. It is a important part of Bhopal local sightseeing.

FLORA

The vegetation was in highly degraded condition and belong to southern dry deciduous scrub forests. The main species found here are Bel (Aegle marmelos), Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Babul (Acacia nilotica), Reunjha (Acacia leucophloea), Doodhi (Writea tinctoria), Lendia (Lagerstromia parviflora), Saja (Terminalia alata), Amla (Emblica officinalis), and Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon). In the closed areas of fodder farm and plantation, different palatable grasses like Chrysopogon fulvus, Themeda triandra, Heteropogon contortus, Dicanthium annulatum, Chloris dolichostachia, etc. are coming up. Hilly portion of Park is heavily infested with Lantana, whereas lower plains with Parthenium and Cassia tora weeds.

FAUNA

Van Vihar NP houses a variety of herbivores and carnivores. While the herbivores are free ranging, the carnivores are housed in large enclosures. The carnivores include tiger, lion (Panthera leo), panther (Panthera pardus), Hyena (Hyaena hyaena), and sloth bear (Melursus ursinus). The albino sloth bear and the white tiger are the star attraction of Van Vihar. The herbivores include sambar (Cervus unicolor), Chital (Axis axis), Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), Chousingha (Tetracerus quadricornis), Common langur (Presbytis entellus) Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), Porcupine (Hystrix indica), Hare (Lepus nigricollis), etc. In addition, the park also houses gharial (Gavialis gangticus), crocodile (Crocodilus palustris), Turtle (Trionyx gangeticus), Star tortoise (Geochelone elegans), and python (Python molurus). Tiger, panther and crocodile have bred successfully under captive conditions in the park.

AVI-FAUNA

Till now, about two hundred species of birds have been listed in Van Vihar. Large numbers of birds frequent this park, especially during the winter. The migratory waterfowl alight in great numbers in the adjoining extensive wetland of big lake. The upper lake, on the southwestern boundary of Van Vihar is the abode of wide array of avian fauna. More than 40 species of migratory birds visit this area during the winter. The average count may be as much as 20, 000 water birds at a time. Some of the important winter visitors are pintail, spotbill, brahminy duck, gadwall, red crested pochard, barheaded goose, cotton teal, spoonbill, painted stork and purple heron. The aviary inside Van Vihar swarm during the winter with hundreds of winged creatures which is a great attraction for bird watchers. A solitary black necked stork has been regularly sighted for the last two winters. Rare sightings of brown headed stork and black capped kingfisher have also been reported. A pair of white stork, which had no previous sighting records in Bhopal, was seen during the summers of 2001. Apart from this, common pariah kite, great horned owl, Shikra, Marsh harrier, tawny eagle and kestrel are some of the important birds of prey. The scavenger vulture is common in the park especially during the summers. The upper lake of Bhopal has also been included in the IBA (Important Bird Areas) list of Birdlife International coordinated by BNHS.

HOW TO REACH

Van Vihar situated in Bhopal city, adjoining Shyamla Hills area of the city, it can be reached by reaching Bhopal city, that is the capital-city of Madhya Pradesh. The park is spread adjacent to Bhopal lake where you can go for visit after paying for entrance ticket.

By Flight:Bhopal city have its own airport with name "Raja Bhoj Airport" (IATA Code: BHO) which has connectivity with cities like Indore, Mumbai,Delhi, Raipur, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad etc. It is about 15 Kms. from city center. Similarly it is connected with other important cities like Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior etc. of state through air-taxi service. And Van Vihar is Just 16 km away to the Airport.

By Train: Bhopal city have two main railway stations: Habibganj & Bhopal Junction. And Van Vihar is odd 8 km away to the main railway station of the city; Railways of Bhopal come under West-Central Railway Zone in India. Railway station code for Habibganj is HBJ & Bhopal Junction is BPL. Here Habibganj Railway Station is the first ISO9001:2001 certified railway station of India. City is on the main Delhi-Chennai & Delhi-Mumbai rail track. There are regular express trains to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Gwalior, Jhansi, Ujjain, Sanchi, Indore, Jabalpur, Katni, Chittorgarh, Aurangabad etc. Bhopal is directly connected to Amritsar & Jammu in the North. There is a daily Shatabdi Express via Agra, Gwalior, Jhansi to Bhopal. In case you are not able to find train from Bhopal to any other destination, you may consider Itarsi Junction (Railway code:ET) also for searching the train. It is about 85kms from Bhopal city but has large number of train options for other parts of India.

This land is under strict protection, due to it has now transformed into an island full of greenery surrounded by habitation. Van Vihar serves as green lung for the capital town of Madhya Pradesh. It harbors herbivores like Chital, Sambar, and blue bull under free ranging condition and the animals like tiger, lion, leopard, hyena, crocodile and gharial under captive condition. The landscape of the area has led to the designing of enclosures in a fashion that serves the objective of fostering a positive man-animal relationship. Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has granted recognition to Van Vihar as medium size Zoo during q994. The adjoining upper lake adds immense beauty to the landscape of Van Vihar. The lake enlivens the park particularly when thousands of migratory birds land in the lake at the onset of winter.

By Road:Regular state roadways buses connect Bhopal with Indore, Ujjain, Pachmari, Khajuraho, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Sanchi, Nagpur, Jaipur. The main bus terminal is at Hamidia road. Taxis can be hired from travel agencies & travel desks at hotels. National Highway-12 connects Bhopal from Jabalpur & Jaipur.Another important National Highway-86 connects Bhopal from Sagar city of Madhya Pradesh. State Highway-17 also connects Bhopal city from other parts of state. Bhopal is well connected by road from nearby tourist destinations like Sanchi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Udaipur, Pachmarhi, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Mandu, Indore, Jabalpur, Chittorgarh, Satpura National Park, Khajuraho, Orchha etc.