Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is known for its rich heritage and natural beauty, but for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw and untouched wilderness of central India, Satpura National Park makes for an ideal getaway. Located about 104 km from Bhopal, this pristine reserve is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and wildlife lovers. Satpura National Park is part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve and is renowned for its diverse wildlife, dense forests, and spectacular landscapes. Satpura offers an authentic wildlife experience without overwhelming crowds. This makes it an excellent destination for anyone looking to experience nature in its purest form. Dive into the highlights of a trip from Bhopal to Satpura National Park, exploring the best routes, key attractions, and activities, making the most of your adventure.
Getting to Satpura National Park from Bhopal
The journey from Bhopal to Satpura National Park is as scenic as it is enjoyable. Covering approximately 104 km, this route is best done by road, and it typically takes around 2-3 hours by car. As you leave the capital city, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush green landscapes, rural villages, and glimpses of the Satpura mountain range in the distance. Private cabs or rented vehicles are the most convenient options, though buses are also available from Bhopal to Pachmarhi, which is close to Satpura National Park.
For those looking for an alternative and budget-friendly route, the Itarsi railway station is the nearest major train station to the park, located just 17 km away. Many visitors choose to combine a train journey to Itarsi with a short cab ride to Satpura, making for a comfortable and scenic trip. The train takes you to Itarsi in less than 2 hours, thus, there is a scope to save time in travelling.
Key Highlights of Satpura National Park
Jungle Safaris: Satpura National Park allows visitors to explore its wilderness through jeeps strictly dedicated to safari purposes, monitored by the forest department authorities. You can experience the thrill of a Satpura jeep safari for a close encounter with nature. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide and a driver who will take you deep inside the chosen safari zone of Satpura while providing interesting information about the national park and its wild inhabitants. There are 4 safari zones in Satpura National Park, out of which 2 zones are core areas of the forest, while the other 2 form the buffer zones. The safari timings are also decided by the forest department and are strictly adhered to. The timings of safaris slightly vary in summers and winters. However, they most function between 6:00 am to 10:00 am in the morning and 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the evening. Book your safaris in advance to secure your preferred zone and slot.
Tawa Reservoir Boat Safari: The Tawa Reservoir, located within the national park, provides a refreshing alternative to traditional jungle safaris. A boat safari on the backwaters of Tawa offers a unique perspective of Satpura, where you can observe crocodiles basking along the shore and see migratory birds during certain seasons. You can also get a glimpse of deer and even a tiger if luck favours. A cruise at the Tawa Reservoir will completely rejuvenate your soul, especially if you embark on the safari during sunset.
Tips to Make the Satpura Trip a Memorable One
• Book safaris in advance. Since Satpura National Park has a limited number of safaris each day, it’s best to book them in advance online through travel websites or any agent.
• While on a jeep safari, listen to your guide and follow the rules and guidelines of the national park as directed by the guide or the driver.
• Carry some essential items while going for the safari like sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Guides are knowledgeable about the terrain and can greatly enhance your safari experience, spotting animals and providing insights about the region's ecology. Therefore, be attentive to what your guide has to say.
