Panna National Park Travel Guide

Panna National Park, cradled in the Vindhya Ranges of Madhya Pradesh, is a testament to India's commitment to wildlife conservation. Established in 1981, the park spans across the Panna and Chhatarpur districts, encompassing an area of 542.67 square kilometers. Historically, the area served as a hunting ground for the rulers of Panna, Chhatarpur and Bijawar princely states.The park's terrain is characterized by extensive plateaus, gorges, and lush forests, with the Ken River flowing through it, serving as the park's lifeline. Panna is the northernmost tip of natural teak forests and the easternmost boundary of Kardhai forests. The park is renowned for its successful tiger reintroduction program after the tiger population was decimated due to poaching.Today, Panna boasts a healthy tiger population alongside other wildlife such as leopards, chital, chinkara, nilgai, and sambhar. The park also hosts over 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, boat rides on the Ken River, and guided nature walks. Nearby attractions include the Raneh Falls, Ken Gharial Sanctuary, and the Ajaigarh Fort, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. In 2020, Panna National Park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its global ecological importance.