Panna National Park

Panna National Park In Madhya Pradesh, India

Panna National Park, located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh, is a renowned wildlife reserve known for its successful tiger reintroduction program, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking landscapes. Covering an area of 542 square kilometers, the park was declared a tiger reserve in 1994 under Project Tiger.

Despite losing its tiger population to poaching by 2009, conservation efforts led to a remarkable recovery, and today, Panna is once again home to a thriving population of Royal Bengal Tigers. The park is characterized by dry deciduous forests, rocky plateaus, deep gorges, and the Ken River, which flows through its heart, creating stunning waterfalls such as the Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls.

This rich habitat supports a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, Indian wolves, chinkara (Indian gazelle), sambar deer, chital, nilgai, and over 200 species of birds, such as Indian vultures, paradise flycatchers, and bar-headed geese. The Ken River is also home to mugger crocodiles and gharials, making it an essential part of the park’s ecosystem.

Apart from its biodiversity, Panna has historical significance, with ancient rock paintings and caves scattered throughout, giving a glimpse into prehistoric human settlements. Tourists can explore the park through jeep safaris and boat rides on the Ken River, offering unique wildlife viewing experiences. With its combination of wildlife conservation success, natural beauty, and historical significance, Panna National Park stands as one of India’s most remarkable tiger reserves and an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.