Satpura National Park and Tiger Reserve
Overview
Satpura National Park is a national park that was set up in 1981 in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh in India. The park derives its name from the well known Satpura range. Satpura is a word of Sanskrit language that means seven mountains. Satpura National Park, also known as the Satpura Tiger Reserve is one of the first declared Reserved Forest Areas of India by virtue of its commercial and ecological significance. The park was added to the Tiger Project Network and became Bodi-Satpura Tiger Reserve in the year 1999.
Information
Satpura National Park covers a large area of 524 square kms and is located at an elevation that ranges from 300 to 1,352 metres. It is an enthralling place that is enveloped by dense forests, ravines, deep gorges and sandstone peaks. It is the perfect place for people who want to experience the true beauty of nature and the thrill of the silent yet fierce beasts that live in the jungle. This haven for wildlife attracts all kinds of visitors who stay at the resorts in Satpura National Park to explore the area in a more elaborate and refined manner.
- Size – 524 square kms
- Forest type – Thickly dense green forest of Sal and Bori Teak forests
Star Species
The park is a treasure trove that is home to a rich biodiversity. The dense forest offers unique and exciting views of different species of flora and fauna. Satpura has a very distinctive ecosystem that is sure to heighten the adrenaline levels of thrill seekers. The park is home to over 50 species of mammals, 254 species of birds and 30 species of reptiles. The park is a bird watcher’s paradise as they can spot a wide variety of inhabitants as well as migratory birds. Satpura National Park is encompassed by stunning landscapes, serene river, lush greenery and breathtaking waterfalls which makes it the perfect retreat for nature and adventure lovers.
- Key Mammal – Tigers, Spotted Deer, Indian Bison, Leopards, Wild boar, Wild dog, Sloth bear, Black buck, Sambhar, Barasingha
- Key Birds – Malabar whistling Thrush, Paradise Fly-catcher, Honey Buzzard, Malabar pied Hornbill, crested hawk eagles
How to reach
- By train – There are plenty of ways to reach Satpura National Park by train. The nearest railhead to the park is Pipariya railway station that is about 40 kms away. Other railway stations include Itarsi (50 kms), Hoshangabad (45 kms) and Bhopal (140 kms).
- By air – There are two major airports that enjoy good air connectivity to other major cities of India such as Delhi and Mumbai. These are Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal which is around 200 kms far and Jabalpur Airport which is approximately 280 kms from the park.
- By road – The Satpura Tiger reserve is near the Pachmarhi hill station which is conveniently accessible by road and is connected to major cities such as Jabalpur (270 kms), Narsinghpur (180 kms), Chhindwara (65 kms), Bhopal (180 kms), and Nagpur (185 kms).
Safari
Satpura has two core safari areas:
- Madhai
- Panaarpaani
Weather and Climate
| MONTH | Minimum°C | Maximum°C |
| JAN | 1 | 16 |
| FEB | 8 | 22 |
| MAR | 22 | 33 |
| APR | 30 | 40 |
| MAY | 34 | 42 |
| JUN | 35 | 44 |
| JUL | 32 | 40 |
| AUG | 30 | 33 |
| SEPT | 28 | 33 |
| OCT | 32 | 38 |
| NOV | 22 | 32 |
| DEC | 18 | 25 |
Things to carry
Clothing tips for the right safari experience:
- Clothes in the earthy colours to be worn which are greens, beige and grey. Black attracts mosquitoes and should be avoided. Shiny or bright colours are a big no.
- Clothes as per expected weather are very important:
- Summer clothes to be carried should be preferably cotton or cotton blend that is comfortable, breathable.
- Winter clothes to be packed should be planned for layering over each other when worn. Advisably 4-5 woollen clothes than one heavy item.
- A raincoat or a windcheater is also recommended.
- A hat or a cap as per the weather or season is also prescribed.
- Avoid wearing strong fragrances on the safari.
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