Exploring Madhya Pradesh's Top 3 National Parks with Rashi Choudhary | Part 1

As someone who grew up in Madhya Pradesh, I've always had the privilege of being close to nature and its wonders. For me, there's nothing more thrilling than witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat, surrounded by the serenity of lush forests. Now, with the monsoon season over and the parks reopening, it's the perfect time to plan your visit. October marks the start of the season when these parks come alive, offering an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to explore the wild heart of India. Trust me, if there's one thing you should do before the year ends, it's visiting these parks!

1. Bandhavgarh National Park: The Ultimate Tiger Destination

Bandhavgarh is the crown jewel of Madhya Pradesh's wildlife. Famous for its dense population of Bengal tigers, it's your best chance of spotting one in the wild. The park is also home to leopards, sloth bears, and a range of birds that will take your breath away.

• How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jabalpur, about 200 km away. You can also reach Bandhavgarh via train from Umaria or Katni.
• What to Expect: Early morning and evening safaris are perfect for tiger sightings, especially in the Tala Zone.
• Best Time to Visit: From October to June

2. Kanha National Park: The Land of Mowgli

If you've ever been captivated by The Jungle Book, Kanha will transport you right into its pages. Apart from the majestic tigers, you'll find the rare Barasingha (Swamp Deer), making Kanha unique among India's parks. Its diverse landscapes—meadows, forests, and streams—are also a photographer's dream.

• How to Reach: Jabalpur is the nearest major city with an airport, about 165 km from Kanha. The park is also accessible via train from Gondia and Jabalpur.
• What to Expect: In addition to tigers, expect to see wild dogs (dholes), barasinghas, and more. The Kisli and Mukki Zones are popular for tiger and leopord sightings.
• Best Time to Visit: October to June, with prime viewing between March and May.

3. Pench National Park: For Those Seeking Serenity

Pench offers something that many parks lack—peace and quiet. Less crowded, yet rich in biodiversity, Pench is home to the Indian bison (gaur), leopards, and of course, tigers. It's also the setting for many stories from The Jungle Book.

• How to Reach: The nearest airport is Nagpur, about 90 km away. You can also take a train to Seoni or Nagpur and drive to the park.
• What to Expect: A calm safari through teak forests, where you can spot tigers, leopards, jackals, and more.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

If you've been dreaming of an adventure, now is the time to act! Madhya Pradesh's national parks are open and brimming with life after the rains. Each park has something unique to offer, from tiger sightings to tranquil landscapes. So, pack your bags, book your safaris, and experience the untamed beauty of Madhya Pradesh.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll explore more wildlife havens in this incredible state!