Diverse wildlife, natural aesthetics, and excellent connectivity with the rest of the country are just some of the reasons that make Panna Nation Park one of the most popular national parks in India. Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the park comprises 543 square kilometres of dense forests, deep gorges, and uplands covered with grass and acacia trees. The reserve is home to many endangered wildlife species, including the tiger. Read on to know more about the distinct delights of the Panna National Park.
Wildlife Attractions
Tiger (Panthera Tigris) is the most notable wildlife attraction of the park. The big cat roams freely in this secure habitat, which is home to other wild beasts as well, such as Leopard (Panthera Pardus), Wolf (Canis Lupus), Wild Dog (Cuon Alpinus), and Hyena. The wooded region of the reserve is the favourite home of Sambar, the largest of Indian deers. You can even spot Nilgai and Chinkara in the open grasslands, while the Sloth Bear may be seen in the rock escarpments. The avifauna of the park comprises over 200 species including a host of migratory birds.
Jungle Safaris
A Jeep Safari is a lovely way to explore the different attractions of Panna National Park. Jeeps take you deep inside the jungle and it’s a thrilling experience indeed to traverse the tough wooded terrain. Besides jeep safaris, Elephant safari is also a good bet to spot the striped beast up close. There are also facilities for boating on the River Ken and you may catch glimpses of predators of the water and other marine life. Binoculars are available for rent at the park.
Accommodation Choices
Many wildlife experts have opened eco-lodges in Panna National Park, which offer not just comfort and serenity, but even provide facilities for spotting the big cats. One such place is the Ken River Lodge; sprawling across 30 acres of pristine jungles, it is perhaps the most sought after accommodation in the forest. The lodge features 10 Deluxe Huts that offer all the required luxury amenities. At Ken River Lodge, you can even enjoy customized boat rides and jungle safaris. Taj Safaris is another popular choice of accommodation. It comprises 12 luxury stone cottages perched at a high elevation. If you want to enjoy angling, a good bet would be the Panna Tiger Resort.
Nearby Highlights
The surrounding areas of Panna National Park make for some excellent tourist attractions where holidaymakers can enjoy a memorable time. Kanha National Park is the hot spot that ranks high on the travel itineraries of most visitors. The main wildlife attractions in the park are Tiger, Bison, Gaur, Sambhar, Chital, and many more. Bandhavgarh National Park and Pench National Park are some other incredible choices for wildlife enthusiasts. If its history and culture that tickles your fancy, head to Alipura Palace, a beautiful property divided into two different sections. The old wing of the palace is almost 300 years old, while the new wing is over 150 years old.