What makes Satpura National Park special?
Located in the Narmadapuram district, Satpura National Park spans over 1,427 square kilometers and forms the core of the larger Satpura Tiger Reserve. The park derives its name from the Satpura Range, meaning “Seven Folds,” which defines the region’s dramatic landscape of sandstone peaks and deep gorges. What sets Satpura apart from many other Indian national parks is its diverse terrain and unique safari options. Visitors can explore the wilderness not just by jeep, but also through boat safaris on the Denwa River and walking safaris, a rare offering in Indian tiger reserves. This allows for a more intimate connection with nature and a chance to observe wildlife like leopards, sloth bears, gaurs and tigers. The park is also part of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized area that includes the scenic Pachmarhi Plateau, Satpura National Park and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary. This upland region is known for its biodiversity, cool climate, waterfalls, and ancient cave paintings.
Why should you visit Satpura?
- For the sloth bear and leopard sightings: Satpura is one of the best places in India to see sloth bears and leopards despite high density of tigers.
- For walking safaris: in the core area which are rare in Indian national parks and certainly no where else in the popular Central Indian tiger reserves.
- For Kayak and Boat Safaris: Bird watching in the vast Denwa backwaters from a kayak or a boat is a mind-blowing experience. One can see the birds from a much closer distance from the canoes.
- For peace Less crows than other national parks and very limited vehicles make the safaris a much better experience.
Where to stay in Satpura?
Luxury Lodges
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Forsyth Lodge, Denwa Backwater Escape, Bori Safari Lodge, Tathastu Satpura offer boutique cottages, expert naturalists, and stunning jungle views.
Mid-Range Resorts
Madhai Wildlife Lodge, Bison Resort, Kipling’s Court (Pachmarhi) offer a perfect balance of comfort and affordability.
Budget Options
MP Tourism’s Bison Retreat and cottages near Madhai gate, and homestays run by locals around Pachmarhi and Madhai villages.
How do I book a Satpura safari?
Safaris can be booked through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department portal. For a smoother experience, you can opt for wildlife tour operators like Tigerwalah, who can handle everything for you - permits, stays, and safaris.
What makes safaris at Satpura unique?
Jeep Safari
Explore deep inside the forest with a guide and driver, spotting animals along the trails.
Boat Safari
Glide over the calm Denwa River, spotting crocodiles, turtles, and water birds.
Walking Safari
A highlight of Satpura, you can actually step inside the core area of the jungle on foot with naturalists and forest guards.
Kayak Safaris
For adventure lovers, paddling silently through backwaters while birds fly overhead is unforgettable. One can see birds from a very close distance from these kayaks.
Safari Zones in Satpura
The park is divided into different zones, each with its own beauty. Satpura is not about rushing for tiger sightings, but about soaking in the wilderness.
Which animals and birds can you see in Satpura?
Satpura is perfect for spotting a variety of wildlife. Tigers and leopards are present, but here you also find good numbers of the sloth bear, often seen strolling across meadows. Giant squirrels jump between trees, dholes (wild dogs) move in packs, and Gaurs graze freely. Other animals include sambhar, chital, barasingha, four-horned antelope (chowsingha), porcupines, civets, langurs, and giant flying squirrels. Bird lovers will be thrilled that over 300 species of birds call Satpura home. Migratory ducks, waders, Indian skimmers, Malabar Pied Hornbills, Mottled wood owls are some of the highlights. Boat safari or Kayaking in the Denwa river is the best way to get close to these birds.
Gallery: Moments in Satpura
Key Wildlife of Satpura
Predators
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Sloth bear
- Dhole (Wild Dog)
Herbivores and other animals
- Gaur
- Sambhar
- Chital
- Barasingha
- Four-horned Antelope
- Nilgai
- Malabar Giant Squirrel
Rich Birdlife
- Over 300 species
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Mottled wood owl
- Indian Skimmer
- Migratory water birds
Best time to visit Satpura
- October – February: Lush greenery in Oct-Nov, Cool and comfortable weather; best for walking safaris and birdwatching.
- March – April: Summer begins, and animal sightings especially tiger sightings improve near water sources.
- May – June: Hot but excellent for spotting tigers, leopards, dholes and sloth bears.
How to reach Satpura?
✈️ By Air
Nearest airports are Bhopal (115 km) and Nagpur (185 km).
🚆 By Train
Pipariya (61 km) is the closest railway station.
🚗 By Road
Well-connected from Bhopal, Hoshangabad, and Pachmarhi.
Safari Rules & Tips
Remember, Satpura is about experiences, not just chasing tigers.
- Wear earthy tones—green, beige, or brown to blend in.
- Carry binoculars, hats, water bottles, and insect repellent.
- Book safaris well in advance, especially for walking safaris (they are limited).
- Respect the silence—avoid loud talking or playing music.
What to pack for Satpura?
Winter (Oct–Feb)
Warm jackets, mufflers, gloves (mornings can be chilly).
Spring (Mar–Apr)
Cotton clothes, caps, and sunglasses.
Summer (May–Jun)
Very light cottons, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for trails and safaris.
More Information
When is Satpura National Park closed?
The core area of Satpura National Park is closed every Wednesday afternoon for safaris. Also, the park is closed on Holi and Diwali. Satpura also remains closed for safaris from 1st July to 30th September on account of the annual cycle of rains.
Can I combine Satpura with other destinations?
Yes! Satpura pairs beautifully with Pachmarhi, Pench National Park (207 km), or even Kanha and Bandhavgarh if you want to extend your tiger safari circuit.
Why Choose Tigerwalah?
Let us be your expert partner in crafting an exceptional and unforgettable Satpura journey.
Unmatched Expertise
We bring years of experience and intricate knowledge of Satpura's ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and unique safari options to create perfectly planned trips.
Personalized Service
We recognize that every traveler is unique. We customize itineraries and arrangements to meet your specific needs for a truly bespoke adventure.
Ethical & Responsible
We are dedicated to tourism that supports conservation, benefits local communities, and educates guests on minimizing their environmental impact.
Seamless Support
From safari bookings to accommodation and transport, we provide hassle-free arrangements so you can focus on the magic of the wild.
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Contact Information
42 Emilia B2, Hamelia Street, Vatika City Sector 49, Sohna Road, Gurugram 122018
+91 9871431155
+91 8989416930
info@tigerwalah.com
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