About Panna National Park –
Panna National Park, located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most scenic and biologically rich tiger reserves. Spread across an area of approximately 542.67 square kilometers, the park lies along the Ken River and is part of the Vindhya mountain range. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994 under Project Tiger and is now celebrated for its remarkable wildlife conservation success, especially its efforts in reviving the tiger population after it was once declared tiger-less in 2009.
The park’s landscape is a stunning mix of plateaus, gorges, waterfalls, and dense teak forests, making it ideal for a variety of flora and fauna. In addition to Bengal tigers, Panna is home to leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, wild dogs, sambars, chinkaras, and many species of reptiles and birds, including the Indian vulture and bar-headed goose. The Ken River, which flows through the park, adds to its scenic beauty and supports aquatic life like gharial and crocodiles.
Panna is also famous for the Pandav Falls and Caves, linked to the epic Mahabharata, and for its proximity to Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, boat rides on the Ken River, and even night safaris in buffer zones. The best time to visit is from November to May, as the park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to October).
Panna National Park is not just a wildlife destination but also a story of ecological hope and rebirth, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and conservation enthusiasts.
History of Panna National Park –
The history of Panna National Park is a compelling tale of rich biodiversity, royal legacy, and remarkable conservation efforts. Located in Madhya Pradesh, the region that now forms the national park was once part of the hunting reserves of the former princely states of Panna, Chhatarpur, and Bijawar. These royal families preserved the area’s forests to a great extent, and though hunting was permitted, it was regulated, allowing much of the wildlife to survive.
In 1981, the Government of India notified the area as a Wildlife Sanctuary, and in 1994, it was declared the 22nd Tiger Reserve of India under Project Tiger, recognizing its ecological importance and potential for tiger conservation. However, despite these protections, the park faced a severe crisis in the early 2000s.
By 2009, due to poaching and administrative negligence, Panna faced a major setback when it was declared tiger-less—a shocking revelation that prompted national and international concern. In response, a bold and determined tiger reintroduction program was launched.
With the relocation of tigers from Bandhavgarh and Kanha reserves, and the successful rearing of cubs by a radio-collared tigress, the park gradually saw a revival of its tiger population.
This conservation success story turned Panna into a model for wildlife restoration in India. In 2020, the park’s efforts were globally recognized when UNESCO designated Panna as a Biosphere Reserve, honoring its achievements in restoring biodiversity and ecosystem integrity.
Today, Panna National Park stands as a symbol of hope in conservation, showcasing how committed efforts, scientific planning, and community involvement can reverse ecological decline and bring a forest back to life.
How to reach?
By Air –
- Khajuraho Airport (HJR): The closest airport to Panna National Park, located approximately 13.5 km away. It offers limited domestic flights, primarily connecting through Varanasi.
- Jabalpur Airport (JLR): Situated about 172 km from the park, this airport has better connectivity with major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- Raja Bhoj International Airport, Bhopal (BHO): Approximately 400 km from Panna, it serves as an alternative for international travelers.
From these airports, you can hire a taxi to reach the park.
By Train –
- Khajuraho Railway Station: The nearest station, about 40 km from Panna National Park.
- Satna Railway Junction: A major railhead located approximately 75 km away, well-connected to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bhopal.
- Katni Railway Station: Another option, around 124 km from the park.
From these stations, taxis or buses are available to take you to the park.
By Road –
- From Khajuraho: Approximately 43 km away, making it a convenient base for visitors.
- From Satna: Around 70 km from the park.
- From Chhatarpur: Approximately 70 km away.
Regular bus services and taxis are available from these towns to Panna National Park.
Safari Timings
Panna National Park offers wildlife safaris in two main shifts—morning and evening—with timings that vary seasonally to align with sunrise and sunset. Night safaris are also available in designated buffer zones.
- Winter Season (October to February) –
- Morning Safari: Starts at sunrise (approximately 6:00 AM) and concludes by 11:00 AM.
- Evening Safari: Begins at 3:00 PM and ends at sunset (around 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM).
- Summer Season (March to June) –
- Morning Safari: Starts at sunrise (approximately 5:30 AM) and concludes by 11:00 AM.
- Evening Safari: Begins at 4:00 PM and ends at sunset (around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM).
Please note that the park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to September). It’s advisable to confirm the exact safari timings and availability before planning your visit
Entry fee
Entry Fees (Per Person)
Indian Nationals: ₹250
Foreign Nationals: ₹1,500
Safari Charges –
Core Zones (Madla, Hinouta, Akola Core Gate)
Private Jeep Safari (up to 6 adults & 1 child) –
Weekdays
Indians: ₹7,000
Foreigners: ₹11,000
Weekends –
Indians: ₹8,500
Foreigners: ₹15,000
Sharing Basis –
Indians: ₹800 per person
Foreigners: ₹2,000 per person
Buffer Zones (Akola, Harsa, Khajurikudar)
Private Jeep Safari (up to 6 adults & 1 child):
Weekdays –
Indians: ₹5,500
Foreigners: ₹7,500
Weekends –
Indians: ₹7,500
Foreigners: ₹12,000
Sharing Basis –
Indians: ₹600 per person
Foreigners: ₹1,500 per person
Additional Charges
Guide Fee –
Core Area: ₹480
Buffer Area: ₹400
Camera Fee –
Still Camera: ₹40
Video Camera: ₹200
Travel Tips –
- Best Time to Visit – The best time to explore Panna National Park is from November to May, when the weather is favorable for safaris and animal sightings are more common, especially around water bodies. The park is closed during the monsoon season (July to mid-October) to allow the forest to regenerate and for safety reasons.
- Safari Essentials – Don’t forget your binoculars and camera with extra memory cards and batteries. Safaris last several hours, and you’ll want to be ready for wildlife sightings. Earth-toned clothing helps you blend in better and avoids disturbing the animals.
- Follow Park Rules and Etiquette – Panna is a protected area, so always follow your guide’s instructions and keep noise to a minimum. Never litter or feed animals, and stay inside the vehicle. These rules protect both wildlife and visitors.
- Carry a Valid ID – When entering the park, you must present the same ID used during your online booking. Keep a physical copy or a clear digital image handy, as it will be checked at the gate before entry.
- Health and Safety Precautions – Carry basic medicines, especially if you’re sensitive to dust, cold, or motion sickness during jeep rides. Also, include a first-aid kit, mosquito repellent, and hand sanitizer for added safety and hygiene.
