Panna Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Panna Tiger Reserve, located in the Vindhyan hills of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated conservation success stories. After losing its entire tiger population by 2009, the reserve underwent an ambitious tiger reintroduction programme that restored a thriving breeding population. The reserve is renowned for its dramatic sandstone gorges, teak forests, the Ken River and rich biodiversity.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Madhya Pradesh
Districts	Panna and Chhatarpur
Tiger Reserve Notification	1994
Total Area	1,598.10 sq km
Core Area	576.13 sq km
Buffer Area	1,021.97 sq km
Landscape	Vindhyan Hills
Forest Types	Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
Major River	Ken River
Best Time to Visit	October to June

Location

The reserve lies in the Vindhyan range of northern Madhya Pradesh and forms part of the Upper Ken River basin.

History

Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994, Panna became globally recognised after successfully reintroducing tigers beginning in 2009 following local extinction, making it one of India’s landmark wildlife recovery projects.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve covers 1,598.10 sq km, including a core area of 576.13 sq km and a buffer area of 1,021.97 sq km. Deep gorges, plateaus, waterfalls, teak forests, open grasslands and riverine habitats support diverse wildlife.

Flora

Major vegetation includes teak, kardhai, tendu, mahua, saja, bamboo, arjun, jamun, khair and numerous grasses, shrubs and medicinal plants.

Fauna

Panna supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Indian Wolf in adjoining landscapes, Gharial in the Ken River, Chinkara, Nilgai, Sambar, Chital, Chousingha, Wild Boar and over 250 bird species including vultures and raptors.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Ken River flows through the reserve, forming spectacular gorges and supporting rich aquatic biodiversity including Gharial and Mugger Crocodile.

Other Attractions

Pandav Falls, Raneh Falls, Ken Gharial Sanctuary, boat safaris, ancient temples and scenic viewpoints are major attractions.

Weather & Climate

Summers are hot, monsoon brings moderate rainfall and winters are cool and pleasant.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Khajuraho. Nearest railway stations: Khajuraho, Satna and Katni. Good road connectivity from Khajuraho, Panna and Satna.

Best Time to Visit

October to June, with March to May offering excellent wildlife sightings.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Madhya Pradesh Tourism accommodation are available at authorised tourism zones, subject to advance booking.

Conservation Highlights

Panna’s tiger reintroduction programme is regarded as one of the world’s most successful large carnivore recovery initiatives. Habitat restoration, radio-telemetry, scientific monitoring and community participation continue to strengthen conservation.

Visitor Tips

Book safari permits in advance, wear earth-toned clothing, maintain silence, avoid littering and follow Forest Department regulations.

Did You Know?

• Panna is internationally recognised for its successful tiger reintroduction.
• The Ken River is one of India’s cleanest major rivers.
• The reserve also protects one of India’s important Gharial habitats.

Last Updated

July 2026