Panna National Park was established as a National Reserve in 1981 and made part of Project Tiger in 1994. Panna National Park is one of the India’s youngest tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh. This park is spread over an area of 542.67 sq. km and created from the hunting reserves of the princely states of Panna, Chhatarpur and Bijawar. In 1975, the North and South Panna Forest Divisions were declared as the Gangau Wildlife Sanctuary. The Panna National Park’s topography is a splendid mosaic of plateaus, plunging gorges vast expanses of teak forests and savannah grasslands. It comprises of the upper Talgaon Plateau and the middle Hinouta Plateau and is fed by the Ken river, which runs for about 55 km within the sanctuary. The Dundwa Falls are located on the Hinouta Plateau. The Pandav Falls are also located within the reserve but can be approached from the Madla Gate. Most of the safaris start from the Madla village, which is located on the main highway, about 22 kms. from the Panna town. Driving up from the Madla Gate, you follow the Ken river south for a few miles and then pass through open grassland and thick, closed canopy forests on the rocky Hinouta Plateau. The other entrance to the park is from Hinouta, which falls on the eastern side of the park, about 20 kms. away from the Madla Gate.

The Panna National Park is the home of various animals like Tiger, Regal Gaur, Jungle Cat, Nilgai, Chital, Chinkara, Sloth Bear, Deer, Jackal, Leopard and Wild Boar. Various species of birds and crocodile can also be seen here.

Jungle Safari in the Park
Panna offers various exciting opportunities to the wildlife lover. Morning and evening safaris and boat ride in the Ken river to observe crocodiles and some beautiful water birds are various facilities which are available to tourists. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris run in the morning and afternoon. The sunset is the best time to spot and photograph waterfowl.

The best time to visit the Panna National Park is from November to March. This park is open from October to June.

By Air:
The nearest airport is Khajuraho, which is situated about 26 kms. from Panna National Park. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate daily flights to Khajuraho.

By Rail:
The nearest railway station is Jhansi, which is situated about 176 kms. from Panna National Park.

By Road:
Panna National Park is connected with Bhopal by NH 86 (via Chhatarpur) and by Gwalior with NH 75. It is also easily connected with Jhansi, Chhatarpur, Satna and Khajuraho.