Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve, located in the northeastern part of Madhya Pradesh, is an important component of the Central Indian tiger landscape. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2008, it comprises Sanjay National Park and Dubri Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve shares a forested boundary with Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh, creating one of the largest contiguous protected forest landscapes in central India.

Quick Facts

ParticularDetails
StateMadhya Pradesh
DistrictsSidhi and Singrauli
Tiger Reserve Notification2008
Total Area1,674.50 sq km
Core Area812.57 sq km
Buffer Area861.93 sq km
LandscapeCentral Indian Highlands
Forest TypesTropical Dry and Moist Deciduous Forests
Major RiversBanas, Gopad and seasonal streams
Best Time to VisitNovember to June

Location

The reserve lies in Sidhi and Singrauli districts of Madhya Pradesh and connects with the forests of Chhattisgarh.

History

Sanjay National Park and Dubri Wildlife Sanctuary were brought together under Project Tiger in 2008 to strengthen conservation of the region’s tiger habitat and wildlife corridors.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

The reserve extends across 1,674.50 sq km, including a core area of 812.57 sq km and a buffer area of 861.93 sq km. The terrain consists of plateaus, low hills, sal forests, bamboo patches, grasslands and river valleys.

Flora

Sal dominates the forests along with teak, saja, bija, bamboo, tendu, mahua, arjun, jamun, khair and numerous shrubs, grasses and medicinal plants.

Fauna

The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Indian Giant Squirrel and over 300 bird species. Reptiles include Indian Rock Python, Cobra, Monitor Lizard and other native species.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Banas and Gopad rivers, together with perennial streams and waterholes, sustain wildlife throughout the year.

Other Attractions

Jeep safaris, birdwatching, scenic sal forests, interpretation facilities and nature trails provide rewarding experiences for visitors.

Weather & Climate

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

How to Reach

Nearest airports: Jabalpur, Prayagraj and Varanasi. Nearest railway stations: Sidhi, Singrauli and Katni. The reserve is accessible by road from nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

November to June is the preferred tourism season.

Accommodation

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

Conservation Highlights

Sanjay-Dubri plays an important role in maintaining tiger connectivity between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh through habitat management, anti-poaching patrols and scientific monitoring.

Visitor Tips

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

Did You Know?

• Sanjay-Dubri shares a forest landscape with Guru Ghasidas–Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve.
• It is an important corridor for tiger movement in central India.
• Extensive sal forests dominate much of the reserve.

Last Updated

July 2026