Panna Tiger Reserve

Overview

Panna Tiger Reserve lies in Madhya Pradesh, with the Ken River winding through its forests and gorges. It was declared a national park in 1981 and a tiger reserve in 1994, and it is close to Khajuraho, about an hour away.

Tigers were lost from the reserve by 2009, and a reintroduction programme has since restored a breeding population. Panna was added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2020.

What to look for

• Tigers, when you are lucky, along the forest tracks and river
• Gharial and crocodiles on the Ken River
• Deer, sambar, nilgai and langurs
• The gorge scenery and, nearby, Raneh Falls

Visiting tips

• Tiger sightings are never guaranteed; take safaris for the forest and wildlife as a whole.
• Book safaris through your guide, as vehicle numbers are limited.
• The reserve usually closes for the monsoon; confirm the dates.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Panna Tiger Reserve, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Gwalior Fort Kandariya Mahadeva Lakshmana Temple Mitawali Jahangir Mahal Orchha Palace Raneh Falls Jai Vilas Palace Man Mandir Ram Raja Temple