Satpura National Park
Satpura Tiger Reserve
This one-of-a-kind tiger reserve is located south of the beautiful Narmada river and is spread across Hoshangabad, Betul, and Chhindwara districts. The most unique thing about this biggest tiger reserve is that it allows Cycling, canoeing, and trekking.
Spread over an area of 2133 sq. km, Satpura Tiger Reserve is the pride of Madhya Pradesh which was set up in 1981. It derived its name from the wonderful Satpura range. This reserve is filled with natural beauty and beautiful species of fauna.
Satpura tiger reserve has everything that a wildlife photographer will love right from the lavish greenfield to the big cats like the royal Bengal tigers. It is also a great place for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and trekkers to explore.
1,427
sq. km Total Area
1,339
Core Area
2000
Tiger Reserve Declared
70-80
Tiger Density
Interesting Fact – Satpura Tiger Reserve
The national park was formed by the merger of three wildlife sanctuaries: Satpura, Pachmarhi, and Bori. Because each of the original sanctuaries had very different terrain, the national park offers a wide range of habitats, including deep valleys, sandstone plateaus, slender gorges, Tawa reservoir, backwaters, waterfalls, a thickly lush forest of Sal and other medicinal herbs.
The Denwa River is the main water source in Satpura Tiger Reserve. It flows along the eastern side of the reserve and supports wildlife throughout the year.
Prime Predators
Satpura Tiger Reserve’s top predators are Royal Bengal Tigers and Indian Leopards
Famous For?
Other than the Bengal Tigers, Satpura is famous for rock climbing, cycling, canoeing, and jeep game drive. You can also walk on foot in some zones
Major Wildlife
Bengal Tigers, Indian Leopards, Eurasian Otter, Blackbuck, Indian Giant Squirrel, Chinkara, & Smooth-coated Otter
Protected Land
Satpura Tiger Reserve covers about 1,427 sq km, including Satpura National Park, Bori Wildlife Sanctuary and Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary. The tiger reserve was established in 2000.
Flora & Fauna in the Park
Satpura Tiger Reserve is one of the largest tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh. It is home to 52 different mammal species and 31 reptiles. The Bengal tiger stands at the top of the food cycle.
Avifauna: The sky of Satpura is filled with 300 bird species. Out of them, 14 are endangered species. It is also colored with 50 wonderful species of butterflies.
Boranical Canopy & Floral Cover
Key Flora & Forest Habitat
Satpura Tiger Reserve is part of a diverse Central Indian forest ecosystem, so it has a high level of biodiversity. Teak, Sal, tendu, mahua (Indian butter-tree), bel (stone-apple), bamboos, and grasses are among the 1300 plant species found here. It contains over 62 tree species, 30 small tree species, 58 shrub species, 32 climber species, and nearly 64 grass species.
Satpura Tiger Reserve is home to a healthy population of tigers spread across its rugged forests, valleys and grasslands. The reserve offers good opportunities for tiger sightings along with leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs and other wildlife.
Mammals
Apex Predators, felids & prime ungulates
Apex Predators & Carnivores
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Indian Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Wild Dog
Forest Herbivores & Small Fauna
- Pangolin
- Spotted Deer
- Bison / Indian Gaur
- Indian Giant Squirrel
Other mammals include Indian Panthers, Sloth Bears, Gaur, Nilgai, Dhole, Striped Hyena, Little Indian Civet, wilderness felines, Sambar, Chausingha, and Honey Badger. It also has reptiles such as Indian Python, Indian Cobra, and Russel’s snake.
Avifauna (Birds)
- Malabar Whistling Thrush
- Paradise Fly-catcher
- Honey Buzzard
- Malabar pied Hornbill
- Pied-kingfisher
- Red-wattled Lapwing
- Indian Spot-billed Ducks
- Grey-heron
- River Lapwing
Herpetofauna (Reptiles)
- Mugger Crocodile
- Indian Soft-shelled Turtle
- Indian Roofed Turtle
- Brook’s House Gecko
- Leopard Gecko
- Indian Chameleon
- Bronze Skink
- Bengal Monitor
- Trinket Snake
Safari in Satpura National Park
Safari in Satpura Tiger Reserve is full of adventure and thrill. As the park is spread across a large area, you will get to see various kinds of flora and fauna that you can capture in your cameras. The pleasure of being in the company of nature, combined with the adventure of seeing tigers and other wildlife with your own eyes on a Gypsy or elephant safari, is unmeasurable in words. Enjoy the scenic views of the lush green forest as you pass by rivers, streams, and waterfalls.
Satpura Tiger Reserve has 5 entry zones at which you can start your adventurous journey. In the Madhai, Churna, Parsapani, and Jamanidev tourism zones, two safaris can be done in a day, one in the morning from 06:00 hrs to 1:00 hrs and the other from 3:00 p.m. hrs to 18:00 hrs. Tourists can visit Pachmarhi from sunrise to sunset.
Jeeps can carry a maximum of six passengers, including the guide. If you want to go on a safari with a larger group of up to 16 people, canter safaris are also available.
Rudra - Most famous Tiger of Satpura Tiger Reserve
Rudra is one of the best-known tigers associated with Satpura Tiger Reserve. He became popular for his large build, solitary nature and elusive behaviour, with sightings often drawing attention from wildlife photographers and safari visitors.
Satpura is also known for other individual tigers such as R2, Ravana, Joker Face, Heartface, Sudiya, KT, Tarzan, Laila and T-20 Madai Female. Tiger names and territories can change over time as animals move, age and establish new territories.
Open Jeep Safari
Explore the woods of Satpura Tiger Reserve through a Gypsy and capture the wonderful pictures of flora and fauna while on it. An open Jeep Safari offers you to greet nature closely.
You will have to book your vehicle separately from your Jungle Permit if you are booking directly from the official website. But, if you book via Big Cats India, we take care of everything.
Boat Safari
Boat Safari is available in Satpura Tiger Reserve on the Denwa River. It offers a different way to explore the forest and is mainly suited for watching birds, crocodiles and wildlife along the riverbanks. Availability depends on the season, water levels and forest department rules, so check the current schedule before booking.
Denwa River option for wildlife and birdwatching.
Walking Safari
Walking Safari is one of the special ways to explore Satpura Tiger Reserve on foot with trained naturalists and forest guides. It allows visitors to explore forest trails, smaller wildlife and birdlife that can be missed during a jeep safari. Walking routes and timings depend on forest regulations and local conditions.
A guided forest walk for close views of Satpura's smaller wildlife and birdlife.
Tiger Safari Timings
Satpura’s safaris usually begin early in the morning and late in the afternoon, giving you the best chances to spot wildlife when the forest is most alive. The timings change slightly with the seasons, so it’s always good to check ahead before you plan.
See Full Safari Timings
Just remember: Evening safari in satpura core zones are closed on every Wednesday.
Safari Zones or Gates
The core zone is spread over 1339.264 sq. km of area and the buffer zone is spread over 794.04397 sq. km of area.
Satpura Tiger Reserve is divided into five entry zones: Pachmarhi, Madai, Churna, Sehra, and Pathai. Churna is the best zone to spot the Bengal tigers. Some areas are ideal for camping, cycling, trekking, and other outdoor activities.
Pachmarhi Zone
Pachmarhi has over 30 viewpoints to see and is located in the middle of the Jabalpur-Itarsi rail route. By road, it is 55 kilometers from the Pipariya railway station, 210 kilometers from Bhopal, and 260 kilometers from Nagpur
Ecotourism activities that you can do in the Pachmarhi zone consist of watching viewpoints, cycling, trekking, nature walks, camping, birding, and butterfly watching.
Madai Zone
Madhai is a core zone located on the pipariya-Bhopal road, 140 kilometers from Bhopal. It is the hub for wildlife tourism in Satpura Tiger Reserve.
Madai zone is famous for Vehicle safari, elephant rides, boat rides, canoeing, and trekking.
Churna Zone
Churna is the best zone for tiger sightings. It is located in the deep core forests along the Itarsi-Nagpur road route, 100 kilometers from the Itarsi railway station. The topography features numerous sparkling water streams that run through the entire forest. For this zone, a vehicle safari is the best option.
Sehra Buffer Zone
This lovely buffer zone is closer to Denwa and has lush green meadows where chances of spotting Gaur, Satpura Leopard Gecko, Rusty Spotted Cat, Mouse Deer, and Indian Crested Porcupine are high.
Pathai Buffer Zone
This buffer zone meets the Denwa backwaters at various points and is located between Shohagpur and Madhai (20 km) on one side; and Madhai and Pathai gates (14 km) on another side.
Jamanidev Buffer Zone
Jamanidev, located 4 kilometers from Madhai, serves as a buffer zone for the Satpura National Park. This is one of Satpura’s most popular safari zones, and it is primarily accessed through the Sehra entrance gate, which is located on the Sohagpur-Madhai road. Jamani Dev’s landscape is filled with ponds, riverbanks, streams, grasslands, and forests where you can go camping.
Core Zone
| Zone Name | Entry Gate |
|---|---|
| Bheemkund (Churna) | Churna Gate |
| Madhai | Madhai Gate |
| Mallupura | Madhai Gate |
| Panaarpani (Pachmarhi) | Panaarpani Zone |
Buffer Zone
| Zone Name | Entry Gate |
|---|---|
| Sehra | Sehra Gate |
| Jamani Dev | Sehra Gate |
| Pathai | Pathai Gate |
| Parsapani | Pathai Gate |
Satpura Safari Tours
Select from our bespoke, budget, or multi-park central India tiger circuits crafted for enthusiasts and photographers.
3 Nights / 4 Days
Satpura Budget Safari
Satpura is a great destination to have a good time on a budget. We’ve put together a low-cost safari package for you that covers four days and three nights in the park.
2 Nights / 3 Days
Satpura Weekend Safari Tour
Weekend safari packages with two Tiger Safaris are also available for wildlife enthusiasts who want to discover the splendor of the forest without disrupting their weekday schedule.
11 Nights / 12 Days
Panna, Satpura and Pench Safari
Explore the untamed beauty of Panna, Satpura, Pench. Track majestic tigers, enjoy serene landscapes, and dive deep into Central India’s wild side.
Recommended Tour
Satpura National Park
Travel 4 Days | 1 Park | 6 Safari
Want to join Satpura Group Tours?
If you are a solo traveler, traveling alone, or a couple, and are planning to join a group safari tour to reduce safari costs, please check out our fixed group tour dates for Satpura National Park and join the dates that suit you best.
How to book Safari in Satpura Tiger Reserve
To book an end-to-end safari package in Satpura National Park including airport transfer, accommodation, meals, and internal transfer, you may contact Big Cats India, or schedule a free discussion with our experts to understand the best safari zone to book, based on your area of interest.
It is advised to plan your safari well in advance to get the best zones for sightings in Satpura. If you are not sure which gate(s) to choose from, you can contact Big Cats India or message us for any assistance to book your safari in Satpura.
You can also book Satpura Safari online from mptourism website. However, this websites only book your safari permits, not the jeep, accommodation, food and internal transfer to the reserve gates.
Weather in Satpura
Satpura National Park experiences diverse weather throughout the year. January and February are cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 25°C (45°F to 77°F). March to June brings the summer heat, with temperatures rising between 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F). The monsoon season, from July to September, brings moderate to heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into a lush green paradise. Post-monsoon (October to November) offers pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C (59°F to 90°F). December brings cool and dry conditions, with temperatures between 7°C to 25°C (45°F to 77°F). Each season in Satpura National Park provides a unique setting for wildlife enthusiasts, with the park’s diverse topography and thriving biodiversity.
November - February
Satpura in Winters
Satpura becomes the most beautiful national park in central India during the winter season (November – February) due to its eye-pleasing lush greenery and dense forests. Here, the temperature in and around the Pachmarhi plateau is generally lower than the plains. On sunny mornings, the spectacular views of nature and wildlife sightings make your safari unforgettable.
March – May (Up to 47°C)
Satpura in Summers
Summer (mid-March to June) is the best time to visit Satpura Tiger Reserve. With summer temperatures reaching 42 degrees, there is a greater chance of spotting tigers near water resources. In addition, as the trees and vegetation dry out in the summer, spotting tigers becomes easier. Therefore, it is a perfect environment for wildlife photographers or tiger enthusiasts.
July – September
Satpura in Monsoon
The monsoon arrives at the end of June in Satpura tiger reserve. And the rainfall in the Pachmarhi zone is significantly higher than in the rest of the tiger reserve. The weather in Madhai, Churna, Parsapani, and Jamanidev is similar to the surrounding plains. The core zones of Satpura remain close during the monsoon season which is from July to September.
| Monthly Temperature & Tiger Activity Matrix (°C) | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Min Temp (°C) | 4 | 8 | 22 | 30 | 34 | 35 | 32 | 30 | 28 | 32 | 22 | 18 |
| Max Temp (°C) | 16 | 22 | 33 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 40 | 33 | 33 | 38 | 32 | 25 |
| Core Gates Status | Open | Open | Open | Peak | Peak | Peak | Closed | Closed | Closed | Open | Open | Open |
Best time to spot tigers at Satpura National Park
Between October and March is the best time to visit Madhai, Churna, Jamanidev, and the Parsapani zones of Satpura Tiger Reserve. Whereas, Pachmarhi can be visited at any time of year. However, do note that it takes patience to spot the tiger as compared to other animals. Availability of the prey, water, and climate plays an important role in spotting one.
How to Reach the Satpura Safari Park
By Air
Bhopal airport is the nearest airport to Satpura Tiger Reserve. It is around 170 km from Satpura.
By Road
Itarsi is the nearest railway station to Satpura Tiger Reserve. It is around 66 km from the reserve.
By Rail
Satpura Tiger Reserve is close to Bhopal city which is well connected to the major cities of India.
| Satpura's distance from important cities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| From | By Air + Road (Hrs) | By Road | By Rail + Road (Hrs) |
| New Delhi | 1.30 Air + 3.30 Road | 15.30 Hrs | 12 Rail + 1.00 Road |
| Nagpur | NA | 6.00 Hrs | 3.00 Rail + 1.00 Road |
| Mumbai | 1.30 Air + 2.00 Road | 23.00 Hrs | 15.00 Rail + 1 Road |
| Bangaluru | 2 Air + 2 Road | 26.00 Hrs | 29.30 Rail + 3.00 Road |
| Bhopal | NA | 3.30 Hrs | 1.30 Rail + 1.00 Road |
| Jabalpur | NA | 3.00 Hrs | 3.30 Rail + 1.00 Road |
| Indore | NA | 12.00 Hrs | 9.30 Rail + 0.30 Road |
| Ahmedabad | 1.30 Air + 4.00 Road | 16.00 Hrs | 15.30 Rail |
| Distance from other Parks | |
|---|---|
| From | Time to arrive |
| Kanha TR | 7 Hrs Road |
| Bandhavgarh TR | 9 Hrs Road |
| Pench TR | 6 Hrs Road |
| Umred Karhandla | 8 Hrs Road |
| Corbett TR | 3.50 Hrs Air + 5 Hrs Road |
| Tipeshwar WLS | 9.3 Hrs Road |
Things you should carry with you
Essential things to carry for your Satpura Tiger Safari
Your DSLR or Camera to capture your memorable safari moment.
Binoculars to view the wildlife from a safe distance.
Plenty of water to keep you dehydrated on a sunny day.
Hat & Shades to protect from direct sunlight.
Bandanna or Cotton Scarf to cover your face and avoid dust.
Winter wear or jacket if you are doing safari during winters. It really gets cold very quickly after sunsets in Jungle.
Rain Cover to save you and your gears from water during rain.
Some History about Satpura Tiger Reserve
The park got its name from the Satpura Range. Satpura is a Sanskrit word that means “seven mountains” (sapta means “seven” and pura means “mountain”).
Satpura was designated as a Tiger Reserve in the year 2000, and thus it is also known as Satpura Tiger Reserve.
The Central India region is home to two significant mountain ranges: the Vindhyachal range and the Satpura range. Both mountain ranges are important forest areas in the Central India region, providing habitat for a wide range of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Since time immemorial, these mountain ranges have had untouched forest areas where human society has avoided destroying or establishing their accommodation.
There are still some tribal peoples who have cut themselves off from the mainstream of human society. The Satpura range forest area is regarded as a focal point for archaeology of human evolution, as it contains a large number of sites with rock shelters and rock painting ranging in age from 1500 to 10000 years.
Tigers, deer, lions, elephants, porcupines, and other animals can be seen in these photographs. It means that elephants and lions were present in these forest areas in the past. Satpura National Park is also very close to the world-famous Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why visit Satpura?
Along with the thrill of a tiger safari, Satpura national park also offers the feel of a hill station. It is a beautiful paradise treasured with a variety of flora and fauna. Besides going on a tiger safari, Satpura also offers walking, cycling, boating, and trekking fun.
Satpura General Info Card
Total Area
2133 Sq. Km
Location
Hoshangabad, Betul, and Chhindwara Districts
Notified as National Park
1981
Notified as Tiger Reserve
2000
Nearest Airport
Bhopal (3.30 Hours)
Nearest Railway Junction
Itarsi (2.00 Hours)
Satpura Wildlife Info Card
Carnivorous
Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dog
Herbivorous
Chowsingha, Blackbuck, Gaur.
Omnivorous
Wild Boar, Pangolins
Birds
300 Species of Birds
Satpura Tour Info Card
Ideal Tour Length
3N4D or 6 Safaris
Can extend with
Kanha, Pench, Bandhavgarh, Umred, Nagzira
Tour Starting points
Nagpur, Delhi, Mumbai, Jabalpur
Is Tour Customizable?
Yes
Safari Options
Open Jeep, Canter
Do’s and Don’ts of having an awesome Safari experience in Satpura
Summer is a good time to look for tigers near water sources, while winter mornings can be cold. Carry suitable clothing based on the season.
Satpura safaris run in morning and afternoon shifts. Walking safaris, boat safaris and jeep safaris have different timings, so check the latest schedule before your visit.
Advance Booking & ID
Book your safari in advance, especially during the busy season. Carry the same valid photo ID used for the booking along with your safari permit.
Protective Clothing
Wear full-sleeve shirts, full-length trousers and comfortable shoes. Carry a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny days. Warm layers are useful for early morning drives in winter.
Satpura is known for tigers, but the reserve also supports leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, gaur, sambar, chital and many bird species. Keep watching the forest instead of looking only for tigers.
Safari drives and other activities can last several hours. Carry drinking water and a small snack if permitted. Do not leave wrappers or plastic inside the forest.
Safety technique directive: Never step out of the safari vehicle or leave a marked trail during a walking safari unless authorised forest staff allows it. Follow your guide's instructions, keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
Satpura Tiger Reserve FAQs
How long does it take to reach Satpura National Park from Bhopal airport?
Satpura National Park is around 105 km from Bhopal. The drive usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the entry gate and road conditions.
How long does it take to reach Satpura National Park from Itarsi Junction?
It takes about 2 hours by road to reach the Satpura National Park from Itarsi Junction, covering a distance of approximately 60 km.
How long does it take to reach Satpura National Park from Nagpur?
The distance from Nagpur to Satpura National Park is about 250 to 270 km, and the drive usually takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
How long does it take to reach Satpura National Park from Pipariya?
Pipariya is approximately 40 Km from Satpura National Park. It will take around 1 hour to cover this distance by car or cab.
How many tigers are there in Satpura National Park?
According to the 2022 tiger census, there are around 70 tigers living in the Satpura National Park.
How much a Tiger Safari costs in Satpura Tiger Reserve?
For 6 person open Gypsy Tiger Safari, It will cost around Rs 7000/- in Satpura Park. including the guide and park entry fee.
How much distance and time does it takes to reach Satpura National Park from Hoshangabad?
The distance between Hoshangabad and Satpura national park is just 63 km. It takes only 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach the national park from Hoshangabad.
Satpura National Park is famous for what?
Satpura Tiger Reserve is famous for tiger safari where you will get a chance to spot any of the 52 species of mammals, 31 species of reptiles, and 300 species of birds. It is also famous for cycling, canoeing, and trekking safaris.
Where is Satpura National Park situated?
Satpura National Park is situated in the Hoshangabad, Betul, and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh.
