Satpura Tiger Reserve, nestled in the rugged terrain of Madhya Pradesh, India, offers a unique and tranquil wildlife sanctuary characterized by its dense forests, deep ravines, and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an intimate encounter with nature and its elusive tigers.
2,133 km2
Mixed Deciduous Forest with Sal & Teak Vegetation
Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Spotted Deer, Indian Bison, Sloth Bear, Sambar Deer
Indian Pitta, Black-capped Kingfisher, Eurasian Coot, Great Cormorant
Satpura Tiger Reserve, nestled in the Satpura Mountain range of Central India, is a tranquil protected area that has remained largely untouched by human influence. This pristine jungle retains nature’s enchanting charm, offering a rare wilderness experience. The reserve spans 2133.307 square kilometers, showcasing a rugged landscape with sandstone peaks, gorges, ravines, rivulets, and waterfalls that nourish dense forests.
Located in Madhya Pradesh’s Narmadapuram district, Satpura Tiger Reserve is a prime example of the central Indian highlands ecosystem. It boasts rich biodiversity, with rare and endemic plants and animals. Unique to Satpura is the coexistence of Sal forests on Gondwana sandstone on the Pachmarhi plateau and teak forests on basaltic traps in the lower plains. This diverse habitat supports species uncommon elsewhere in the state.
Satpura, meaning “Seven Folds” in Sanskrit, forms a watershed between the Narmada and Tapti rivers. The reserve includes Bori Sanctuary, one of the oldest forest reserves with a tradition of scientific management since 1865. Its diverse climate and terrain have fostered a rich array of tropical flora and fauna, including species from the Himalayan and Nilgiri regions.
In addition to its biological significance, Satpura holds archaeological treasures with over 50 rock shelters featuring ancient paintings. The reserve’s natural beauty is complemented by Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh’s only hill station, known for its scenic locations. Satpura Tiger Reserve is a unique wildlife destination, offering a blend of geographical formations, dense forests, waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, approximately 200 kilometers away. From the airport, we can organize an air-conditioned vehicle to transport our guests to their hotel near the park, which takes about four to five hours. Alternatively, Jabalpur Airport, around 250 kilometers from Satpura, is another option for visitors, with similar transport arrangements available for the onward journey.
The closest railway station is in Itarsi, about 70 kilometers from the reserve. Itarsi Junction is well-connected to major cities across India, making it a convenient railhead. From Itarsi, an air-conditioned vehicle can be organized to reach Satpura Tiger Reserve, with the journey typically taking around two hours.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Satpura National Park is home to several ancient rock shelters and cave paintings that date back thousands of years. These prehistoric artworks provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early human inhabitants and add a historical dimension to the park's natural beauty.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Satpura Tiger Reserve is from October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for wildlife viewing. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:
Winter (October to February): This is the most favorable time to visit. The temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it comfortable for safaris. The cooler weather also means that animals are more active during the day, enhancing wildlife sighting opportunities.
Spring (March to April): As the weather begins to warm up, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This period is also good for wildlife spotting as animals frequent water sources.
Summer (May to June): While temperatures can rise up to 40°C (104°F), early mornings and late afternoons are still good for safaris. Wildlife sightings can be frequent around water bodies as animals seek out water to stay cool.
Monsoon (July to September): The reserve receives significant rainfall during the monsoon season. While the park becomes lush and green, some areas may be inaccessible due to rain, and safaris might be limited. This period is less ideal for wildlife viewing but great for experiencing the forest in its full verdant beauty.
Overall, the months from October to April are considered the best time to visit Satpura Tiger Reserve, providing comfortable weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Satpura Tiger Reserve is divided into several zones, each accessible through specific gates. The main zones and their respective gates are:
1. Madhai Zone:
Madhai Gate: The most popular entry point, providing access to rich wildlife and scenic beauty. This zone offers a variety of safari options, including jeep safaris, boat safaris, and walking safaris.
2. Pachmarhi Zone:
Pachmarhi Gate: Known for its beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and ancient caves. This zone is ideal for those interested in both wildlife and scenic exploration.
3. Churna Zone:
Churna Gate: Offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including tigers, leopards, and a variety of other animals. This zone is known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity.
4. Panaarpani Zone:
Panaarpani Gate: This gate provides access to a serene part of the reserve, known for its water bodies and bird-watching opportunities.
5. Jamani Dev Zone:
Jamani Dev Gate: A less frequented zone, offering a tranquil safari experience with good chances of spotting wildlife in a peaceful setting.
Each zone in Satpura Tiger Reserve offers a unique and enriching experience, and it is advisable to book safaris in advance to secure entry through your preferred gate.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Satpura Tiger Reserve, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation.
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust
Shop our exclusive Into The Wild dust buffs crafted from breathable bamboo fibre → Shop Now
Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
| Satpura Tiger Reserve Safari Timings | ||
| Time Period | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| October | 6:00am to 11:30am | 3:00pm to 6:00pm |
| November | 6:15am to 11:30am | 3:00pm to 5:45pm |
| December | 6:30am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 5:30pm |
| January | 6:45am to 11:30am | 3:00pm to 5:45pm |
| February | 6:30am to 11:30am | 3:00 pm to 6:15pm |
| March | 5:45am to 11:30am | 4:00pm to 6:45pm |
| April | 5:45am to 11:30am | 4:00pm to 6:45pm |
| May | 5:30am to 11:30am | 4:00pm to 6:50pm |
| June | 5:30am to 11:30am | 4:00pm to 7:00pm |
| July | ||
| August | ||
| September | ||
Always try to reach the gate, along with the safari permits and valid IDs, at least 30 minutes before the gate opening.
The park management holds the right to change the safari timings as per their discretion, hence it’s advisable to always check the timing closer to your travel dates.
Both Pench and Satpura Tiger Reserves offer unique and memorable wildlife experiences, and the choice between them depends on your preferences and what you are looking to get out of your visit. Here are some factors to consider:
Pench Tiger Reserve:
Famous Inspiration: Pench is famously known as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.”
Tiger Sightings: Pench has a healthy tiger population and offers good chances of spotting tigers along with other wildlife such as leopards, deer, and a variety of birds.
Accessibility: Pench is relatively easy to access, with good road connectivity and proximity to major cities like Nagpur.
Popular Safaris: The park offers jeep safaris that are popular among tourists and provide a good opportunity for wildlife photography.
Satpura Tiger Reserve:
Diverse Activities: Satpura offers a variety of safari experiences, including jeep safaris, walking safaris, boat safaris and canoeing, providing a more varied way to explore the park.
Scenic Beauty: Known for its stunning landscapes, including dense forests, rugged hills and tranquil water bodies, Satpura offers a picturesque setting.
Less Crowded: Satpura is less visited compared to some other reserves, offering a more serene and intimate wildlife experience.
Rich Biodiversity: The reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur) and numerous bird species.
Which One to Choose?
For Tiger Enthusiasts and “The Jungle Book” Fans: If your main goal is to see tigers and you are a fan of “The Jungle Book,” Pench might be the better choice due to its high likelihood of sightings and its cultural significance.
For Diverse Wildlife Experiences and Scenic Beauty: If you are looking for a less crowded experience with a variety of safari activities and stunning landscapes, Satpura would be more appealing.
Both reserves offer exceptional wildlife experiences and the choice depends on what aspects of the visit are most important to you.
As of the latest available data, Satpura Tiger Reserve has an estimated tiger population of around 50 to 60 individuals. The reserve’s extensive and varied habitats, including dense forests, hills, and water bodies, provide an ideal environment for tigers and other wildlife. Conservation efforts and monitoring programs continue to support and protect this crucial tiger population in Satpura.
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