Satpura National Park, Location, Geographical Features, Flora, Fauna

Satpura National Park is a prominent tiger reserve located in the Hoshangabad (now Narmadapuram) district of Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1981, the Satpura National Park forms part of the Larger Satpura Tiger Reserve, which includes Bori Sanctuary and Pachmarhi Sanctuary. Spread over a rugged terrain of hills, deep valleys, sandstone peaks, and dense forests, Satpura is known for its unique and unspoiled ecosystem.

Unlike many other parks, Satpura allows walking safaris, canoe rides, and jeep safaris, offering a great wildlife experience. It plays a significant role in India’s Project Tiger and is a critical habitat for various endangered species.

Satpura National Park

Satpura National Park was named after the Satpura mountain range which is a part of the Deccan bio-geographic zone. The park covers an area of 524 sq. km, and the entire tiger reserve stretches across more than 2,200 sq. km, including the buffer and core zones.

The Satpura National Park is less commercialized compared to other tiger reserves, which helps maintain its natural balance and makes it ideal for ecotourism. Satpura is also adjacent to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Pachmarhi, adding to its ecological significance.

Geographical Features of Satpura National Park

Geographical Features of Satpura National Park includes rugged hills, ravines, sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and dense sal forests. The Denwa River, a tributary of the Tawa River, runs along the park’s boundary and adds to the rich riverine ecosystem.

• Location: Narmadapuram (Hoshangabad), Madhya Pradesh
• Total Area: 524 sq. km (core area); over 2,200 sq. km including the reserve
• Altitude: 300–1,352 meters (highest point: Dhoopgarh)
• Terrain: Hilly, forested, riverine, with deep gorges and sandstone formations
• Climate: Tropical; hot summers and cool winters
• Rivers: Denwa, Tawa, and Sonbhadra

Also Read: Periyar National Park

Satpura National Park Flora

Satpura National Park Flora is typical of central Indian deciduous forests, with a mix of moist deciduous, dry deciduous, and tropical evergreen vegetation. The variety in altitude and moisture levels contributes to plant diversity.

Satpura National Park Fauna

Satpura National Park is home to a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It is one of the few national parks where walking safaris are allowed, making wildlife spotting a unique experience. The Satpura National Park is a tiger reserve, but also harbors other keystone species.