A significant area of the Satpura mountain range was explored in the 1800s, by Bengal Lancers regiment’s Captain James Forsyth. He documented his observations in The Highlands of Central India. The Satpura National Park is one of the first protected reserved forests in India and is the abode of a large population of big cats and sloth bears. One can easily fall in love with the dense forests, rivers, ravines, starry nights, mountain terrain, sunsets and the entire landscape in the Satpura National Park.
As one of the greatest English poets John Clare penned, And hedges leafing with the green spring tide From out the greenery the old birds fly And chiro and whistle in the morning sun -On a Lane in Spring The words aptly goes with the picturesque beauty of the national park.
The region is treasured with dense flora and fauna along with several exciting activities. Though Tiger spotting is the predominant wildlife attraction in Satpura National Park, but it has a lot more to offer.
Flora : The widespread biodiversity of the Satpura National Park contains 1300 plant species some of which encompass teak, bamboos, sal, Indian butter-tree (mahua), stone-apple (bel), tendu, grasses, climbers, bushes and many more.
Fauna : Along with tigers being the prime attraction, the reserve is the home to a huge family of fauna comprising Leopards, Wild Dogs (Dholes), Black Buck, Golden Jackals, Porcupine, Indian Bison (Gaur), Chowsingha (Four Horned antelopes), Sloth Bear, Giant Malabar Squirrel, Spotted Deer, Wild boar, Sambar, Crocodile, Langur, etc. Apart from them the unique attractions include Indian Giant squirrel, White Bison and Blackbuck.
The Satpura National Park is also ideal for the captivating variety of birds both residential as well as migratory. The place is a paradise for nature photographers and bird watchers. Indian Pitta, Orange-headed Thrush, Pied Kingfishers, Nightjars, Indian Roller, Tickle’s Blue, Brahminy Starling, Great Cormorants and Shelducks. River Terns, Black Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle along with the endangered Indian skimmers adds to the beauty of the park.
The eccentricity of the Satpura National Park lies in
1. Floating with Canoe safari on Denwa River
The canoe safari provides an ultimate bliss on the Denwa River, far from the madding road. The experience of meandering through the river aids a very special feel different from that of the conventional jeep and elephant safari.
2. Walking through the forest of Satpura Tiger Reserve
Tiptoeing through the dense foliage of Satpura Reserve channels chill-thrill to the tourists. With constant vigilance along with the professional guide, experience the wilderness closely on foot.
3. Cycling through the buffer zone
Paddling two wheels through the intimate jungles of the Satpura reserve across the river beds, mustard fields, beautiful shrubs and chirping birds everywhere are bound to give goosebumps. Accompanying a guide is a must for everyone.
4. The must-experience Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are available for both core and buffer zones, based on the visitors’ choice. However, the guides communicate with each other to share information if any of the jeeps spot something interesting and rare, specially tiger or leopard. The sprawling wilderness and vast stretch of the mixed deciduous forest can be best experienced with the Satpura Jeep Safari.
5. Mythological visit to Pachmarhi
The only hill station of Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi (five caves) holds the history of the Pandavas and Draupadi of The Mahabharata, stayed there. The scenic beauty allures both the nature lovers and researchers.
The Satpura National Park is like a Pandora’s box which a lot more to offer -
• Forsyth trail camping
• Night stay at the Churna forest guest house
• Night patrol safari at Sehra andParspani during the twilight hours
• Boat ride from Tawa Dam to Satpura
• Night jor camping at Jamani Dev camps
• Heritage site of the Bhimbetka rock paintings
• Splendour of the Patalkot Valley
The best time to plan the Satpura National Park is during the winter season, because according to the guides the chances of spotting tigers are comparatively high as they roam around the jungles for warmth.
