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Madhav Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Madhav Tiger Reserve, located in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, was notified in 2023 as India’s 58th Tiger Reserve. Centred on Madhav National Park, the reserve marks the return of tigers to a landscape from which they had disappeared for decades. It forms an important component of the north-western Central Indian tiger landscape.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Madhya Pradesh |
| District | Shivpuri |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 2023 |
| Total Area | 1,751.00 sq km (approx.) |
| Core Area | 375.00 sq km (approx.) |
| Buffer Area | 1,376.00 sq km (approx.) |
| Landscape | Vindhyan–Central Indian Highlands |
| Forest Types | Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests and Thorn Forests |
| Major Water Bodies | Sakhya Sagar, Madhav Sagar and seasonal streams |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
The reserve is situated in Shivpuri district of northern Madhya Pradesh around Madhav National Park.
History
Madhav National Park was upgraded as a Tiger Reserve in 2023, becoming India’s 58th Tiger Reserve. Tigers have been reintroduced as part of a long-term restoration programme.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve consists of rolling hills, plateaus, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, scrublands and wetlands centred around Sakhya Sagar Lake.
Flora
The vegetation is dominated by kardhai, teak, khair, tendu, salai, mahua, ber, palash, bamboo patches and native grasses.
Fauna
The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Striped Hyena, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Mugger Crocodile and rich birdlife associated with its lakes.
Rivers & Water Bodies
Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar reservoirs, together with seasonal streams, provide vital water resources for wildlife.
Other Attractions
George Castle, Sakhya Sagar Lake, birdwatching, wetlands and scenic forest drives are popular attractions.
Weather & Climate
Summers are hot, the southwest monsoon brings moderate rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Gwalior. Nearest railway station: Shivpuri. The reserve is well connected by road from Gwalior, Jhansi and Bhopal.
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers the most comfortable conditions for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Madhya Pradesh Tourism accommodation are available near authorised tourism zones with advance booking.
Conservation Highlights
The reserve represents a major tiger reintroduction initiative, restoring a top predator to the Shivpuri landscape while improving habitat management, prey recovery and ecological connectivity.
Visitor Tips
Book permits in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, avoid littering and follow Forest Department regulations.
Did You Know?
• Madhav became India’s 58th Tiger Reserve in 2023.
• Tigers returned to the landscape through a planned reintroduction programme.
• George Castle, built for a proposed royal hunt, lies within the protected area.
Last Updated
July 2026