According to a legend, the Pandavas spent quite a long time in the jungles of Panna during their exile. In fact the forest was once a game reserve for the royalty of Panna.
   
Wildlife Reserve in India
     Panna National Park Reserves in   Select City  
 
Traveler's Note Attractions Must-Do Dining
Traveler's Note

Located in the heart of the country this is one of the few national parks that guarantee tiger spotting. Situated close to the temple town of Khajuraho, Panna National Park is growing fast on the popularity list of wildlife enthusiasts. The Park has a rocky and uneven terrain and is covered almost entirely by scrubbed vegetation and grass, thus making it relatively easy to spot wildlife. Take a safari around the park to watch leopards, wild dogs, wolves, hyenas, and other smaller cats. In addition, the Park houses over 200 species of birds and has quite a variety of snakes and other reptiles. While touring the park, remember to visit the one of the largest diamond mines in the country lying closeby.

Best time for wildlife spotting - January-May
Operating months - Park is closed from June-November
 
Attractions
  • Wildlife: The Panna National Park is one of the best places to spot a tiger, since their population is fairly large and the park area is relatively small. Also seen here are leopards, sloth bear, deer, chital and chowsinga. In addition, quite a number of snakes and birds have also made this park their home.

  • Ken River: The river is an excellent place to view aquatic predators, especially maggar and gharial, which can be spotted lazing around in the sun on the river banks.

  • Pandava Falls: The falls get their name from the legend that the Pandavas spent some time in the caves nearby, while on their exile. The fall is almost 100-feet high and offers spectacular views.

  • Gatha Falls: This is yet another brilliant fall in Panna, which is spectacular as the water gushes down 300 feet.

  • Padmavati Devi or Badla Devi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, the temple is believed to be the protector of the prosperity of the town.

  • Mahamati Prannathji Temple: This temple is dedicated to Prannathji. It is one of the most prominent temples in the town and is the hub of all activities during Sharad Purnima. The temple has a brilliant structure with 201 intricately carved domes and a spectacular golden kalash.

  • Baldeoji Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Baldeoji and houses a black marble image of the deity. The temple has a distinct Gothic-style with a raised platform and a number of delicately carved pillars.

 
Must-Do
  • Safaris: Jeep Safaris, either in the morning or evening are the best ways to tour the park. Jeeps can be hired from the several operators that are located around the Park. The guides who accompany you are experts in spotting animals. Alternately, you could also try an Elephant Safari to witness wildlife from close quarters. An exciting excursion would be the Night Safari, which though a tad expensive is definitely worth it! Among nocturnal creatures, popular sightings are jungle cats, porcupine and sloth bears.

  • Boat Rides: Boat rides across the River Ken are organized by Forest authorities. You can even go for the private boats given out by the lodges. These rides are particularly rewarding as they get you to view numerous crocodiles lazing in the sun.

  • Angling: Angling and fishing can be done on river with prior permission from the authorities. You could even get a chance to photograph a waterfowl at sunset.

 
Dining

The best eating option in Panna is the Machan or the tree-house restaurant of the Ken River Lodge. The restaurant serves excellent Indian buffet meals and is particularly known for their tandoori items. Cabochon, a multi-cuisine restaurant of the Jewel of the Jungle is another excellent dining option in the Park. The Den in the same resort is a library lounge which serves light snacks and tea. Gol Ghar, the dining hall of the Panna Tiger Reserve serves Indian, Continental and Chinese to the accompaniment of folk music and performances. The restaurant at Lawania Jungle Resort also serves Indian and Continental.

 
 
 
  Hotels in Bandhavgarh
   Star  Hotel Name Rate(Rs.)*   Inclusions  
  The Jewel Of The Jungle 1830
 
           
  * All the above rates are per person per night  
       
   Wildlife Reserves in Assam : Kaziranga|
   Wildlife Reserves in Gujarat : Sasan Gir|
   Wildlife Reserves in Karnataka : Bandipur |Nagarhole |
   Wildlife Reserves in Madhya Pradesh : Bandhavgarh| Kanha| Pench| Panna|
   Wildlife Reserves in Rajasthan : Ranthambhore|
   Wildlife Reserves in Uttaranchal : Corbett|
   Wildlife Reserves in West Bengal : Sunderbans|