About the Park

Tucked in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, Satpura National Park is one of India’s most serene and least crowded wildlife destinations. Covering about 524 sq km of core area, it forms part of the larger Satpura Tiger Reserve, which spans over 2,200 sq km when combined with Bori and Pachmarhi sanctuaries.

Established in 1981, Satpura stands out for its varied landscape – rolling hills, sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and quiet streams. The park gets its name from the Satpura Range, meaning “hundred mountains,” which stretches across central India. Its wilderness feels raw, peaceful, and truly wild.

Wildlife & Habitat

Satpura’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths.

  • Key Species: Tiger, leopard, sloth bear, Indian gaur, wild dog, giant squirrel, and spotted deer.
  • Rare Sightings: The Indian giant squirrel and black bear are commonly spotted here — species often missed in other tiger reserves.
  • Birdlife: Over 300 bird species, including Malabar whistling thrush, paradise flycatcher, and crested serpent eagle.
  • Habitat: A mix of dense sal and teak forests, sandstone hills, and open grasslands intersected by the Denwa River, creating rich and layered ecosystems.

Safari Experience

Satpura is unique, it offers more than just jeep safaris. It’s a place to explore the wild in multiple ways.

  • Safari Types:
    • Jeep Safari: Classic option through core zones.
    • Boat Safari: Peaceful ride along the Denwa River, great for birdwatching and crocodile spotting.
    • Walking Safari: One of the few Indian parks where walking safaris are allowed in the buffer area.
    • Canoe Safari: Seasonal option for quiet exploration.
    • Night Safari: Offered in certain buffer zones for nocturnal species.
  • Safari Gates:
    • Madai Gate: Main entry point with river crossing.
    • Pachmarhi Gate: Scenic access route via hill station.
    • Panarpani Gate: Quieter and less crowded.
  • Timings:
    • Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
    • Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Timings change slightly by season.)
  • Booking: Online through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department portal or via registered lodges.

Best Time to Visit

  • Open Season: October 1 to June 30.
  • Best Months: November to March – pleasant weather, clear skies, and great light for photography.
  • Summer (April – June): Best for tiger and sloth bear sightings near waterholes.
  • Monsoon (July – September): Park remains closed for breeding and vegetation recovery.

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Bhopal (180 km) and Nagpur (250 km).
  • Nearest Railway Station: Pipariya (55 km) – closest railhead to Pachmarhi and park gates.
  • By Road: Well-connected via Hoshangabad, Itarsi, and Bhopal; regular taxis and buses available.

Where to Stay

  • Near Madai Gate:
    • Forsyth Lodge: Eco-luxury lodge with guided walking safaris.
    • Denwa Backwater Escape: Beautiful riverside stay offering boat and canoe rides.
    • Reni Pani Jungle Lodge: Boutique property known for its naturalist-led safaris.
  • Around Pachmarhi:
    • Small hotels and MP Tourism bungalows available for travelers who prefer a hill-station stay.

Travel Tips / Park Rules

  • Carry photo ID for all safaris.
  • Follow your guide’s instructions,  Satpura emphasizes low-impact tourism.
  • Avoid loud noises and flash photography.
  • Dress in neutral-colored clothing; bright colors distract animals.
  • Don’t feed wildlife or litter inside the park.
  • Carry cash, as digital payments may not always work in remote areas.
  • Binoculars are a must, this park is a paradise for birdwatchers.

Packing List

  • Light cotton clothes in earth tones
  • Warm layer for winter mornings
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Refillable water bottle
  • ID proof and safari permits
  • Insect repellent and torch
  • Comfortable walking shoes

Visitor Statistics

Satpura receives around 80,000 – 100,000 visitors annually, far fewer than popular parks like Kanha or Bandhavgarh. This low visitor number helps maintain its tranquil and untouched feel – perfect for those who prefer solitude in nature.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Satpura is one of the most thoughtfully managed tiger reserves in India.

  • The park promotes low-footprint tourism with strict limits on vehicles.
  • Walking and canoe safaris minimize disturbance to wildlife.
  • Local communities are directly involved in eco-tourism and conservation jobs, providing income and reducing forest dependency.

To travel responsibly:

  • Stay at lodges practicing waste management and energy conservation.
  • Avoid plastic bottles and disposable items.
  • Support local artisans and guides.
  • Respect the quiet of the forest – here, silence is part of the experience.