Satpura National Park | Wild Safaris India

Satpura National Park – A Comprehensive Guide

Wild animals in their natural habitat during a safari tour in India

About - Satpura National Park

Nestled in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh, Satpura National Park is a serene and offbeat wildlife destination known for its rugged terrain, dense forests, and tranquil beauty. Spanning over 524 sq. km, the park forms part of the larger Satpura Tiger Reserve, which covers an area of 1,427 sq. km including its buffer zones.

Declared a national park in 1981, Satpura is unique for its non-commercialized safaris, where visitors can explore the wilderness through jeep safaris, walking safaris, and boat safaris. It is also one of the few parks where night safaris are allowed.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and Indian giant squirrels, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Geographical Details

Altitude: 300m to 1,352m above sea level
Coordinates: 22°27’ N to 22°55’ N
Rainfall: 1,600 mm annually
Temperature:
- Winter: 4°C (Min)
- Summer: 40°C (Max)

How to Reach Satpura National Park

By Flight

The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj International Airport, Bhopal (135 km). From Bhopal, you can hire a taxi for a 3-hour drive to the park.

By Train

The nearest railway stations are:

Pipariya Railway Station (55 km, 1-hour drive): Well-connected to major cities.
Itarsi Railway Station (120 km, 2-hour drive): A major railway junction near the park.

By Road

Satpura is well-connected to nearby cities via road:

Bhopal: 135 km (3-hour drive)
Nagpur: 260 km (6-hour drive)

Best Time to Visit Satpura National Park

Winter (October – February): Ideal for safaris and birdwatching, with cool weather.
Summer (March – June): Best for spotting tigers and other wildlife near water sources.
Monsoon (July – September): The park remains closed during this time.

Wildlife at Satpura National Park

Satpura is home to a variety of wildlife species, including:

Leopard: Frequently spotted in rocky terrains of the park.
Sloth Bear: One of the park’s key attractions.
Indian Giant Squirrel: A rare species found in the treetops.
Wild Dog (Dhole): Known for their pack behavior and hunting skills.
Sambar Deer: The largest deer species in India.

Bird species include:

Malabar Whistling Thrush
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Crested Hawk-Eagle

Reptiles include pythons, crocodiles, and various lizard species.

Best Places to Visit Inside and Near Satpura National Park

Denwa Backwaters
- A picturesque spot offering boat rides and crocodile sightings.
Forsyth Trail
- A historic trekking route named after Captain James Forsyth.
Pachmarhi Hill Station (50 km)
- A nearby hill station known for its waterfalls, caves, and colonial charm.
Dhoopgarh (55 km)
- The highest point in Madhya Pradesh, offering breathtaking sunset views.
Churna Zone
- Famous for wildlife sightings, including leopards and sloth bears.
Bori Wildlife Sanctuary (20 km)
- A part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity.
Itarsi Town (120 km)
- A vibrant town with markets and cultural sites near the park.

Types of Safaris in Satpura National Park

Jeep Safari
- Description: Private or shared Jeep Safaris for close encounters with wildlife.
- Timings:
  - Morning: 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM
  - Evening: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Capacity: 6 visitors per Jeep.
Walking Safari
- Description: A unique experience to explore the forest on foot with expert guides.
Boat Safari
- Description: Explore the Denwa River for crocodiles, birds, and other aquatic life.
Night Safari
- Description: Wildlife exploration in buffer zones during nighttime.