7 Best National Parks of Central India
India is a diverse country that’s known for its stunning natural landscapes and the rich variety of wildlife, flora, and fauna. Home to some of the largest conservation programs, India’s Central India is filled with a variety of national parks that preserve the exotic biodiversity of the country.
Naturetrek boasts the most reputed wildlife experts that can help you plan your next trip to one of the best national parks in Central India as well as across the globe.
This article will explore some of the best national parks of Central India that are worth checking out and adding to your itinerary.
1) Kanha National Park
Central India is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts; Kanha National Park is one of the most popular national parks located in Madhya Pradesh.
This vast expanse of grassland and forest is home to the majestic Royal Bengal tiger. Besides that, people also visit this national park to spot Indian leopards, Indian wild dogs, sloth bears, and other exotic wild animals.
Not just tigers, Kanha National Park or the Kanha Tiger Reserve also derives its popularity from the thriving population of Barasingha or the swamp deer. The best way to explore this spot is via jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching tours.
Overall, this national park is an ideal destination for every nature enthusiast and the best time to visit is between October to June.
2) Bandhavgarh National Park
Next up on the list of the best national parks in Central India, we have Bandhavgarh National Park. Located close to the Kanha National Park, the Bandhavgarh National Park is also known for its rich population of tigers in the area.
Surprisingly, not only is the national park known for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, but it is also one with the highest density of tiger population in India. The tigers are present in higher numbers around the central Tala zone.
Besides tigers, the Bandhavgarh National Park is also home to white tigers, leopards, and even deer. Furthermore, the national park also boasts a rich variety of flora, including sal trees and grasslands.
The rich flora in the area makes the spot an ideal home for a variety of bird species, including eagles. If you inch closer toward the southern part of the national park, you’d also be able to spot remains of the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, which is a piece of historical excellence.
3) Satpura National Park
Located in Panchmarhi, the Satpura National Park is another one of the most stunning national parks located in Central India.
To no one’s surprise, even this one is known for its tiger reserve and even won the TOFT Wildlife Tourism Award for the most visitor-friendly wildlife destination in the year 2010. The national park is spread across an area of 202 sq. miles and derives its name from the Satpura hill ranges.
Like most of the other national parks in the area, even the Satpura National Park plays an integral part in India’s ecosystem. Besides offering natural habitat to the tigers in India, the national park is also home to several endangered species. It also has a rich variety of flora in the area.
4) Panna National Park
Another popular national park located in Madhya Pradesh that’s worth exploring is the Panna National Park. Known for its picturesque landscape and thriving wildlife, Panna National Park is one of those underrated and offbeat spots that you won’t regret adding to your itinerary.
When it comes to animal reserves, the Panna National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and a lot more.
Coming to the USP of this national park, the Panna National Park is famous for its mining history and the Ken River. The river flows through the national park and there are commercial scenic boat rides available.
Besides wildlife and activities, tourists can also explore the rich birdlife that habitats the place. Over 200 species of birds are available in the national park. Beside boat rides, the national park also offers a variety of other activities, including jeep safaris, elephant rides, and nature walks through the dense parts of the park.
5) Nagzira Sanctuary
Nagzira is a lush and dense offbeat national park in the heart of India. It is a park like no other with leopards prowling freely at night and fireflies brightening the otherwise dark night sky.
The park is situated in Gondia district of Maharashtra and is one of the only parks in India where you can drive your own vehicle, as well as take a safari jeep.
Spread over 150 sq kilometres of greenery, this is a must add to your Central India itinerary.
6) Pench National Park
Established in 1975, the Pench National Park is another popular national park that’s established in Madhya Pradesh. Like most of the other national parks in Madhya Pradesh, the place is home to 40 Bengal tigers, 39 different species of mammals, and different species of reptiles and amphibians.
If you are planning to visit Pench, we’d recommend scheduling your trip during the light winter months. Avoid the peak summer months since it can get very hot and uncomfortable in the area. The months from November to February are considered ideal.
While you are at Pench, plan for different activities since there are quite a lot of them available. From jeep safaris to bird watching, the options are diverse.
7) Sanjay National Park
Also known as the Guru Ghasidas National Park, the national park is located in the Singrauli districts in Madhya Pradesh. The popularity of this national park dates back to when the white tiger, Mohan, was rescued and rehabilitated in the area.
Like many other national parks in central India, even Sanjay National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloths, etc. There are a few species of deer visible in the area too.
If you are fond of bird watching, different species of birds can be spotted in the national park as well.
Conclusion
All of these national parks in Central India have their unique features and are well worth a visit. With intent to conserve and preserve the wildlife in India, these national parks and their officials work tirelessly to provide the highest quality and standards of care to the individual animals that reside there. In conclusion, if you're looking for an exciting wildlife adventure or just want to immerse yourself in nature, then the national parks of Central India are an excellent choice.
