Panna National Park

Panna National Park and Tiger Reserve (the 542 square-kilometer dry deciduous forest ecosystem along the flowing Ken River, celebrated worldwide for its successful tiger reintroduction project with over 60 wild Bengal tigers, thriving leopard populations, and rare vulture nesting gorges) located near Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, stands as central India's supreme wildlife safari and conservation landmark.

Situated 25 km southeast of Khajuraho along the Vindhya hill ranges, this protected biosphere reserve encompasses teak woodlands, rocky gorges, savannah grasslands, and perennial river pools teeming with diverse fauna.

It's the home of Royal Bengal tigers roaming ancient forest trails, elusive Indian leopards resting upon sandstone boulders, sloth bears foraging in mahua groves, herds of spotted chital and four horned antelopes grazing along river flats, over 200 bird species including endangered long billed and king vultures, and an intensely exhilarating, deeply authentic jungle ambiance filled with alarm calls of langurs, morning mist rising over the Ken River, and crisp woodland air scented with wild blossoms.

It represents a rich Madhya Pradesh wildlife conservation heritage apex, Project Tiger management, and ecotourism where open top gypsy safaris, Raneh Falls canyons, UNESCO Khajuraho Temples, and Lakshmana Temple carvings unite in Panna National Park.

Located with its primary Madla Gate on NH 39, it sits 25 km from Khajuraho Bus Stand, 27 km from Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ), 24 km from Khajuraho Airport (HJR), and 20 km from Raneh Falls, easily reached by taxi, auto, or safari resort transfer.

The Tiger Reintroduction & Ken River Boat Safaris

After tigers vanished from the park in 2009, forest officials pioneered a world acclaimed relocation program that has nurtured a healthy population of over 60 wild tigers roaming the reserve today.

Travelers can experience both 4x4 open top gypsy game drives across the teak woodlands and peaceful boat safaris along the Ken River to spot basking mugger crocodiles and river otters.

Truth is, hearing the unmistakable roar of a Bengal tiger echo through the silent teak forest at dawn is an adrenaline rush you will never forget.

Raneh Falls, UNESCO Temples & Lakshmana Temple

Raneh Falls: Located 20 km northwest, explore the 98 foot deep pure granite canyon and Ken Ghariyal Sanctuary.

UNESCO Khajuraho Temples: Combine your wildlife adventures with visits to the 10th century stone carvings at Kandariya Mahadeva and Lakshmana Temple.

Panna Safari & Khajuraho Heritage Day Plan

The Tiger Safari & World Heritage Circuit: Early morning wake up with hot chai (5:15 AM) -> drive to Madla Gate for the morning 4x4 gypsy safari in Panna National Park (6:00 AM to 10:30 AM: track Bengal tigers, spot leopards, sloth bears, chital herds & vulture nests) -> river boat safari on the Ken River to observe marsh crocodiles (10:45 AM to 11:30 AM) -> hearty jungle brunch at a riverside eco lodge (12:00 PM to 1:30 PM) -> afternoon heritage visit to the UNESCO Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho (2:00 PM to 4:45 PM: explore Kandariya Mahadeva and Lakshmana Temple) -> visit the colorful granite gorge at Raneh Falls (5:00 PM to 6:30 PM) -> return to Khajuraho for dinner.

Visiting Code & Conduct: Advance online safari booking via MP Forest portal is essential during peak winter months; carry valid government ID matching your safari permit; wear muted earthly clothing (khaki, olive, brown); silence mobile phones and avoid shouting when observing wild animals.

After experiencing the thrilling wildlife safaris of Panna National Park, explore Raneh Falls, tour the UNESCO Khajuraho Temples, or visit Lakshmana Temple.