Satpura National Park, located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Encompassing an expansive area of 1427 sq. km, Satpura, derived from Sanskrit, translates to "Seven Mountains." Established in 1981, the park boasts rugged terrain adorned with deep valleys, gorges, meandering streams, and majestic sandstone peaks. Its landscape is further adorned with cascading waterfalls, lush forests of Sal and Teak, and a rich variety of medicinal plants, offering a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
Satpura National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. Its water bodies, including Denwa Backwater and Tawa River, serve as magnets for migratory birds, enhancing the park's allure. With over 300 species of avifauna, Satpura National Park promises an enriching experience for bird watchers.
Flora and Fauna of Satpura National Park
Since you will be embarking on a photography tour in Satpura National Park, it is necessary to have a clear picture of the residential flora and fauna species that you can spot in the photogenic landscape of Satpura.
Flora - Satpura National Park showcases diverse ecosystem housing over 1300 species of exquisite flora. Within its evergreen deciduous forests, one can find a variety of trees including Sal, teak, Tendu, Bel, Mahua, Bamboo, and Mahogany. Sal trees, particularly abundant in the Pachmarhi Plateau area, dominate the landscape. The reserve boasts a rich botanical diversity with more than 62 tree species, 58 shrub species, 30 species of small trees, 32 climber species, and around 64 species of medicinal and grass plants, including rare herbs. Additionally, the region is home to many rare and endemic plant species, particularly Bryophytes and Pteridophytes such as Psilotum, Cyathea, Osmunda, Lycopodium, Lygodium, and more.
Fauna - Satpura National Park and its surrounding buffer areas provide a habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. Within the park, there are 50 mammal species, including 14 endangered mammals and reptiles, along with over 52 Royal Bengal Tigers, attracting wildlife enthusiasts for thrilling jungle safaris. The park boasts a diverse array of animals, birds, reptiles, and insects, with approximately 254 bird species, 30 reptile species, and over 50 species of butterflies. Notable fauna species include the Sloth Bear, Tiger, Leopard, Indian Bison (Gaur), Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Black Buck, Wild Dog (Dhole), Sambar, Pangolin, Porcupine, Marsh Crocodile, Barasingha, Four-Horned Antelope (Chousingha), and Langurs, among others. A special highlight of Satpura National Park is the Indian Giant Squirrel, a rare find in India today. Additionally, the park is home to endemic species of Central India such as the Flying Squirrel and Rhesus Monkey.
The Ultimate 4 Days Guide to Satpura Photography Tour
Day 1 - The excursion to Satpura begins with arrival at Bhopal and immediate transfer to an accommodation at Satpura National Park. The distance from Bhopal to Satpura is about 104 km and the journey will take up to 2&½ hours. Check into a resort and relax for the rest of the day.
Day 2 and 3 - These two days in Satpura National Park are completely yours to indulge in a deep probing into the wilderness of the forest. Book your permit in advance for a whole-day jeep safari in both morning and evening slots.
Make a checklist to carry the essentials for an unhindered photography experience in the jungles of Satpura. Take into company an expert guide, well accustomed to the jungle norms.
Day 4 - Time for wrapping up your lens and heading towards departure. Check out from the resort and drive to Bhopal to take a train or flight back home.
