Satpura Tiger Reserve
Madhya Pradesh
Positioned amidst the range of Satpura in Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, Satpura National Park is a pristine wildlife habitat that is spread over an area of 524 sq. km. It was first introduced by the popular bird watcher Dr. Salim Ali in the year 1981. In the same year, the park covers an area of 1427 sq km by adjoining Bori Sanctuary (486 sq km) and Panchmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary(417 sq km), making a unique central Indian highland ecosystem. By the year 1999, the park was added to Tiger Project Network and became Bodi-Satpura Tiger Reserve. Well, this place captivates one who is keen interested in archaeology as there are plenty of rock shelters of ancient period that are embellished with beautiful paintings.
En route you'll find the rugged landscapes commemorated with sandstone peaks, narrow gorge, ravines, and dense forests that make it an inimitable creation of the nature. It's the place where every wildlife buffs must visit to enjoy the view of jungle, lovely hilly terrains, rivulets and unswayed forest, etc. Very rich in biodiversity, the wildlife of Satpura covers a huge range of flora and fauna including rare species of mammals, birds, reptiles and plants.
Wildlife and Birdlife
The park’s fauna comprises of spotted deer, Indian bison, tigers, leopards, wild boar, Indian wild dogs or dholes, sloth bear, black buck, porcupine, sambhar, chowsingha, pangolin, marsh crocodile, langurs, etc. There are about 14 species of endangered mammals and reptiles in the Satpura Tiger reserve. Indian giant squirrel is one of the special feature of Satpura Tiger Reserve as it is rare in India now. Some of the species like Indian giant squirrels, flying squirrels, rhesus monkeys are endemic to the Central India
Most importantly, Satpura chains a small herd of riding elephants which are especially used for spotting tigers and then put on a 'Tiger Show', which is organised by park management during Monday safari. For Tiger Show, you need to pay a fixed fee to the official then only you are allowed to spot tigers or to do photography.
Apart from elephant and jeep ride, boating in Denwa River is also one of the best experiences that one can have in their lifetime. Boat Safari in Satpura bids a great opportunity to witness the beautiful hills and thrilling wildlife of the forest. You can spot a huge species of birds and animals while paddling mutely along the border of jungle.
Quick Facts
State
Madhya Pradesh
Area
2133 sq. km
Core Area
1339 sq. km
Altitude
300 to 1352 meter above sea level
Location
Hoshangabad district
Temperature Range
40°C to 2°C
Annual Rainfall
1700 mm
Best time to Visit
October to April
Vegetation
Very diverse and varying landforms and vegetation
Water Resource