7 Must-Visit Tiger Reserves In Madhya Pradesh

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

Kanha Tiger Reserve

Covering about 940 km² across Mandla and Balaghat districts, Kanha is famed for its healthy barasingha (swamp deer) population, vibrant moist-deciduous forests, and frequent tiger sightings.

Two tigers play around at Kanha Tiger Reserve | kanhakislinationalpark/instagram

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Located in Umaria, Katni and Shahdol districts, Bandhavgarh boasts India’s highest tiger density, rugged hills, open meadows, ancient forts, and excellent safari opportunities, especially from the Tala zone.

A tiger emerges from the rocks in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve | Shutterstock

Pench Tiger Reserve

Straddling Seoni district, Pench is celebrated for its teak forests, rolling meadows, riverine habitats, and abundant wildlife including tigers, leopards, dholes and rich birdlife. Named after the meandering Pench River.

A spotted owlet at Pench Tiger Reserve | Daniel Lamborn/Shutterstock

Panna Tiger Reserve

In northern Madhya Pradesh (Panna and Chhatarpur), Panna unites dramatic Ken River gorges, mixed dry and deciduous forests, rich flora and fauna, successful tiger restocking, prehistoric rock art and waterfalls.

Vatsala at Panna Tiger Reserve | @bharatbhirangi/x

Satpura Tiger Reserve

Situated in central MP, Satpura offers diverse terrain—hills, valleys, rivers, forests. Activities include canoe rides, night safaris, walking trails; excellent for those seeking wilderness off the beaten path.

A tiger rests in the Satpura Tiger Reserve | Shutterstock

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve

Located in Sidhi district, this large reserve combines Sal, bamboo and mixed forests. Wildlife includes tigers, sloth bears, leopards, hyenas, and many bird species; remote feel with fewer crowds.

A safari jeep during sunset at Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve | @NVallangi/x

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

Declared in 2023 across Damoh and Sagar districts, this new reserve spans over 2,300 km². Its dry deciduous forest, valleys, streams, and wildlife corridors make it a vital connector between existing MP tiger reserves.

Eurasian Hobby (Falco subbuteo) at Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve | @Casual_birder/x

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Pachmarhi, also known as Satpura ki Rani, is a hill station in Madhya Pradesh | Wikimedia Commons
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