Madhya Pradesh has cemented its position as India’s undisputed “Tiger State”. Home to a staggering 785 tigers – the highest number in the country according to the 2022 census – this central Indian state offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is introducing a range of tourism activities, including vehicle safaris, nature walks, jungle safaris, treehouse stays, village tours, and stargazing to enhance the visitor experience. The board is conducting workshops across different national parks to ensure a seamless and exciting journey.
Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said Madhya Pradesh is committed to responsible tourism and is focussing at the importance of minimizing environmental impact and involving local communities. By collaborating with forest departments, local authorities, and tourism operators, Madhya Pradesh aims to sustain tourism activities even during the park closures (July to September) and generate employment opportunities for local residents.
Here’s a glimpse into all 7 awe-inspiring tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh:
Bandhavgarh National Park: Boasts a thriving 104 tiger population
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve spans across districts of Umaria and Katni. Encompassing an area of 1,536.93 square kilometres, the reserve boasts a thriving tiger population of 104 tigers. Bandhavgarh is one of the smallest parks but wildlife-rich and picturesque park having the highest density of tigers in India. There are estimated to be one tiger to every 14 km which offers a thrilling opportunity to spot tigers in their natural environment. A flight from Delhi to Jabalpur takes roughly 2 hours which is followed by a 4 hour drive to the park.
Kanha National Park: A pioneer in conservation initiatives
Kanha Tiger Reserve spanning the districts of Mandla and Balaghat is proudly one of the country’s premier tiger reserves and the state’s largest national park. The reserve encompasses an area of 940 square kilometres and the tiger population is 61. Kanha undoubtedly offers an unforgettable safari experience and spotting the master of camouflage is a thrilling reward estimated with one tiger every 15 km. Interestingly the lush forests of Kanha are believed to have inspired the setting for “The Jungle Book.” Visitors can opt a flight to Jabalpur or reach the park by Balaghat Railway Station or take a bus to Kanha Gate from Balaghat.
Pench Tiger Reserve: More than just a wildlife sanctuary
Pench National Park spans across the districts of Seoni and Chhindwara. Pench National Park is renowned for its thriving tiger population of 61 tigers across an area of 1179.63 square kilometres posing a possibility of tiger tracking every 19 km. Pench Tiger Reserve is a living chapter from Rudyard Kipling’s iconic tale, “The Jungle Book.” The inspiration for the fictional world of Mowgli can be traced directly back to this region.