Satpura National Park is located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh in India. Satpura is a Sanskrit word, that means seven mountains (Sapta – seven and Pura – mountain). It is located in the south of the river Narmada. The Satpura ranges therefore has enormous varieties of jungles and wildlife creating it in a happening place for trekking, Safaris, fishing, bird watching, relaxing and for other activities making it a perfect place for Holidays.
Satpura National Park covers an area of 524 Sq. Kms and established in 1981.
The fauna of Satpura National Park is a stunning jungle treat for wildlife enthusiasts as one can find about 50 species of mammals, 254 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles, 50 species of butterflies and also comprises of spotted deer, Indian bison (Gaur), tigers, leopards, wild boar, wild dog (locally called Dholes), sloth bear, black buck (unique attraction), porcupine, sambhar, four horned antelopes (chowsingha), pangolin, marsh crocodile, languars etc. There are about 14 species of endangered mammals and reptiles in the Satpura Tiger reserve. Indian Giant squirrel is one of the special feature of Satpura Tiger Reserve as it is rare in India now. Some of the species like Indian giant squirrels, flying squirrels, Rhesus monkeys are endemic to the Central India.
Apart from jungle safari other activities offered are boating, walking safaris and trekking.
How to reach
Nearest Airport – Bhopal Airport (140 Kms)
Nearest Railway Station – Bhopal Railway Station (190 Kms)
Sohagpur Railway Station (30 Kms)
Pipariya Railway Station (45 Kms)
Itarsi Railway Station (50 Kms)
Best Time To Visit – October – June
November – February – Days of winters offer tourists a pleasant and cozy climate to explore the park.
April – June – During the summer season climate remains pleasant during morning and evening. The probability of sighting tiger increases and they can be spotted along water bodies. The backwaters and the dense jungle help the temperature to fall after the sunset.
Safaris
Four wheeler open gypsy takes you to the core and buffer tourism zone of the park for Safaris.
Regular Safari – Two Safaris in a day, Morning (5 Hrs) and Afternoon (3 Hrs)
Full Day Safari – It lasts from morning till evening from 6.00 Am to 6.00 Pm.
Timing varies as per forest guidelines and as per summers and winters.
Churna (Full Day Tour) – It is situated in the deep core forests & is at a distance of 50 kms from the Madhai entry point. A day trip to Churna Forest Rest House is a recommended experience.
*Note – Park is open for tourists from 1st October – 30th June. Entry for park round is in the morning and in the evening park remains closed for tourists in the afternoon of Wednesday.