Top 10 National Parks in Madhya Pradesh 2025

Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the "Heart of India," is home to some of the most stunning and diverse wildlife sanctuaries in the country. With its rich biodiversity, dense forests, and vast landscapes, the national parks in Madhya Pradesh offer a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. If you're planning a trip in 2025, here are the top 10 national parks you must explore.

1. Kanha National Park

The Inspiration Behind The Jungle Book

Kanha National Park is one of India's most renowned wildlife sanctuaries and was the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. It is known for its scenic meadows, lush sal and bamboo forests, and diverse wildlife.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian leopards, sloth bears, and barasingha (hard ground swamp deer).

• Bamni Dadar (Sunset Point) offers breathtaking panoramic views.

• Kanha Museum showcases the park’s ecological and historical significance.

Activities:

• Jeep Safari & Elephant Safari

• Bird Watching

• Nature Walks

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June (Best tiger sightings from March to June)

2. Bandhavgarh National Park

The Land of High Tiger Density

Bandhavgarh National Park is famous for its high tiger population density, making it a prime destination for wildlife lovers and photographers.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• A hub for Royal Bengal Tigers, along with Indian leopards, barking deer, and langurs.

• Bandhavgarh Fort, an ancient fortress offering stunning views.

• Shesh Shaiya, a 10-meter-long statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on the seven-headed serpent.

Activities:

• Jeep Safari

• Trekking & Nature Walks

• Historical Site Visits

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June (Peak wildlife spotting in March to May)

3. Pench National Park

The Real-Life Mowgli’s Jungle

Located on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is famously linked to The Jungle Book and offers a pristine jungle experience.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Home to tigers, wild dogs (dhole), Indian wolves, and giant squirrels.

• Pench River, which enhances the park’s scenic beauty.

• Alikatta Grasslands, where herbivores gather in large numbers.

Activities:

• Jungle Safari

• Boat Safari on the Pench River

• Camping and Eco-tourism

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June (Winter is ideal for birdwatching)

4. Satpura National Park

A Unique Blend of Adventure and Serenity

Satpura National Park is unique because it allows walking safaris, making it one of the few places in India where visitors can explore on foot.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Rich biodiversity, including tigers, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur), and hornbills.

• Denwa River, offering breathtaking views and boating experiences.

• Pachmarhi Hill Station, a beautiful escape amidst nature.

Activities:

• Walking Safari & Boat Safari

• Jeep Safari & Canoeing

• Camping & Trekking

Best Time to Visit:

• October to April (Walking safaris available in winter)

5. Panna National Park

A Rebirth of the Tiger Population

Panna National Park is famous for its successful tiger reintroduction program and mesmerizing natural beauty.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Tigers, gharials, leopards, and chinkaras are commonly sighted.

• Ken River, famous for boat rides and crocodile sightings.

• Pandav Falls and Caves, with mythological and historical significance.

Activities:

• Boat Safari & Jeep Safari

• Bird Watching & Wildlife Photography

• Cave Exploration

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June (March-May for best tiger sightings)

6. Sanjay-Dubri National Park

An Underrated Wildlife Haven

A lesser-known yet spectacular wildlife destination, Sanjay-Dubri National Park is an untouched paradise.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Tigers, Indian leopards, hyenas, and sloth bears.

• Son River, a picturesque location in the park.

• Dense Sal Forests, home to exotic birds and reptiles.

Activities:

• Jungle Safari

• Birdwatching & Nature Walks

• Camping & Trekking

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June

7. Madhav National Park

A Blend of History and Wildlife

Situated near Shivpuri, Madhav National Park offers historical sites alongside wildlife exploration.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Leopards, nilgai, sambar deer, and crocodiles.

• George Castle, built by King George V.

• Sakhya Sagar Lake, ideal for birdwatching.

Activities:

• Wildlife Safari

• Sightseeing at Historical Sites

• Boating & Birdwatching

Best Time to Visit:

• October to June

8. Fossil National Park

A Journey Back in Time

Fossil National Park is home to plant fossils dating back to the Jurassic era, making it a must-visit for history and nature lovers.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Fossils of prehistoric trees and plants from 150 million years ago.

• Paleontological Exhibits, offering insights into Earth's ancient history.

• Guided Tours, led by experts.

Activities:

• Fossil Exploration

• Educational Tours

• Photography

Best Time to Visit:

• November to February

9. Van Vihar National Park

A Wildlife Sanctuary in the Heart of Bhopal

Van Vihar National Park is a zoological park with a natural habitat for rescued animals, located in the heart of Bhopal city.

Key Attractions:

• Upper Lake Viewpoint, offering scenic views.

• Rescue and Rehabilitation Center for injured wild animals.

• Butterfly Park, showcasing diverse butterfly species.

Activities:

• Walking & Cycling Trails

• Wildlife Photography

• Nature Exploration

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March

10. Kuno National Park

The New Home for Cheetahs in India

Kuno National Park has gained global recognition for hosting the reintroduced cheetah population in India.

Wildlife and Attractions:

• Cheetahs, striped hyenas, jackals, and deer species.

• Kuno River, offering beautiful scenic spots.

• Diverse Bird Species, making it a great bird watching destination.

Activities:

• Jeep Safari

• Eco-tourism & Nature Walks

• Camping & Wildlife Photography

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March

Conclusion

Madhya Pradesh offers an unparalleled wildlife experience with its diverse national parks. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or nature lover, these parks provide the perfect setting for unforgettable encounters with India's rich biodiversity. Start planning your visit today and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Madhya Pradesh’s national parks.