OT Staff & Waquar Habib
Spanning 940 sq km, Kanha is Madhya Pradesh’s most iconic reserve, known for thriving tiger populations, the rare barasingha, rich forests, and breathtaking safaris that inspired Kipling’s Jungle Book.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.