Satpura National Park: A Wildlife Haven in Madhya Pradesh

Satpura National Park, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is a haven for nature lovers and animal aficionados. Established in 1981, this beautiful wildlife refuge is part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve and covers an astounding 524 square kilometers. Satpura National Park, with its diverse animals and stunning landscapes, provides a quiet getaway into the lap of nature. Let’s go deeper into what makes this park a must-see location.

1. Location and accessibility.

Satpura National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh’s Hoshangabad district, near Pachmarhi. The park is easily accessible from large towns such as Bhopal (130 km) and Nagpur (260 km). The nearest railway station is Pipariya, 55 kilometers distant. From Pipariya, you can take a taxi or a bus to get to the park.

2. Special Features of Satpura National Park

Satpura stands out from other Indian national parks due to its calm and distinct flora and fauna. The park’s name comes from the Satpura Range, which translates to “Seven Folds” in Sanskrit, and its rocky topography is ornamented with sandstone peaks, deep ravines, and dense woods.

Unlike other overcrowded wildlife sanctuaries, Satpura National Park provides a more intimate and tranquil animal encounter. It is also one of the few parks in India where walking safaris are permitted, allowing tourists to see the wildness up close.

3. Rich Biodiversity

Satpura National Park has a remarkable variety of fauna. It is home to a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plants.

Mammals:

Visitors can see tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, Indian giant squirrels, and gaurs. The secretive Indian wolf and pangolin are occasionally spotted.

Birds:

With over 300 bird species, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some prominent species are Malabar pied hornbills, crested serpent eagles, and Indian pittas.

Reptiles:

Crocodiles, pythons, and a variety of lizard and turtle species live in the park as well.

Flora:

The vegetation here includes sal forests, teak trees, and a variety of medicinal herbs. The woodland floor is frequently decorated with brilliant wildflowers, giving it a visual delight.

4. The best time to visit Satpura National Park.

The best months to visit Satpura National Park are October through April, when the weather is good and wildlife sightings are common. The park is closed during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September, to protect the animals and the vulnerable habitat.

5. Activities at Satpura National Park.

Jeep Safari:

A jeep safari is the most popular method to see the park. Safaris are conducted twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. This allows visitors to observe the park’s fauna in its natural setting.

Walking Safari:

Satpura is one of the few national parks in India that allows walking safaris. Walking via authorized trails with expert guides allows you to get up close and personal with the wilderness.

Boat Safari:

A boat safari on the Denwa River, which runs along the park’s border, is a unique way to appreciate the beauty while also spotting creatures such as crocodiles and water fowl.

7. Nearby Attractions.

8. Tips for Visitors