Panna Tiger Reserve

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Panna National Park, often referred to as the Panna Tiger Reserve is one of India’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries, nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Known for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thriving population of the majestic Bengal tiger, Panna National Park is a jewel in India’s crown of natural wonders. This guide provides an in-depth look at everything you need to know about Panna National Park, making it an essential read for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers planning to explore this pristine sanctuary.

History and Significance of Panna National Park

Established in 1981, Panna National Park spans an area of approximately 542 square kilometers. The park was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 1994 under the Project Tiger initiative, which aims to protect and conserve the tiger population in India. However, by 2009, Panna faced a critical challenge as the park lost all its tigers due to poaching and other factors. This crisis led to a significant conservation effort, including the reintroduction of tigers from other reserves.

Today, Panna National Park stands as a testament to successful conservation, boasting a thriving tiger population that has rebounded due to dedicated efforts by forest officials, wildlife experts, and the local community. The park is not only important for its tigers but also for its role in preserving a range of species and its contribution to biodiversity.

Photo Gallery

Biodiversity and Wildlife at Panna National Park

Panna National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, offering a habitat to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is predominantly a dry deciduous forest, with mixed teak and sal forests. Its terrain is diverse, ranging from rocky hills and plateaus to gorges, waterfalls, and the beautiful Ken River that meanders through the park, providing life to the ecosystem.

Flora
The flora of Panna National Park is a mix of dry deciduous forests with a variety of trees, shrubs, and grasses. Teak, sal, mahua, and tendu are some of the prominent trees found in the park. The undergrowth is rich with bamboo, jamun, and other species, making it a verdant environment for wildlife to thrive.

Fauna
While the Bengal tiger is the star attraction, Panna National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. Leopards, sloth bears, Indian wolves, hyenas, and jackals are among the predators that roam the park. Herbivores such as chital, sambar, nilgai, and chinkara can be frequently spotted grazing in the open grasslands. The park also shelters several species of reptiles and amphibians, including crocodiles that inhabit the Ken River.

Birdwatchers will find Panna to be a paradise, as the park is home to over 200 species of birds. Notable species include the Indian vulture, red-headed vulture, and the crested serpent eagle. The park's diverse ecosystems support a vibrant avian population, making it an ideal destination for birding enthusiasts

Best Time to visit

- The best time to visit the Reserve is 15 October to 15 June.

Tourism Zone & Carrying Capacity

Panna Tiger Reserve has two Tourism Zone namely Madla & Hinauta.

Weather

Panna being situated in Central India is subjected to extreme and tropical weather. Month of January may also witness sub-zero temperatures and frost. Monsoon arrives in the second week of June. The average temperature over the months is as below:

Private Accomodation

Private Hotels are also present near Gates which can be booked by the Tourists by contacting the respective Hotel Owners.

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Panna Tiger Reserve Google Map