How to Plan Panna Tour

Panna National Park is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is spanned across the districts of Panna and Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh. Known for its rich biodiversity and the majestic Bengal tiger, the national park offers a serene escape into nature's beauty. For adventure seekers looking to explore the wilderness, as well as casual tourists eager to witness the wildlife, planning a visit to Panna requires a serious of preparation. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step process to help travellers plan their tour, ensuring they have an unforgettable experience in the pristine Panna National Park.

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Panna National Park is between November and March when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of wildlife sightings are higher. The park remains closed during the monsoon season, typically from July to mid-October, to allow for forest regeneration. The summer season is ideal for wildlife sightings, but due to the scorching heat, many tourists get discouraged from going for a safari drive. Therefore, the winter season in Panna National Park receives the highest footfall and the adjoining steps mentioned below will guide tourists to prepare for the tour accordingly.

Step 2: Research the Park Zones

Panna National Park is divided into four distinct zones: Madla, Hinouta, Jinna, and Akola. Madla and Hinouta are designated as core zones, while Jinna and Akola serve as buffer zones. Each zone offers a unique combination of wildlife sightings and scenic landscapes. It is highly recommended to research these zones in advance, as certain areas may provide better opportunities for wildlife viewing or feature distinctive trails. Jeep safaris are available in all four zones. In the core zones, tourists can opt for either a full jeep booking or a shared jeep, whereas in the buffer zones, safaris are only available through full jeep bookings. Early planning allows greater flexibility in selecting the desired zone and type of jeep.

Step 3: Make an Advanced Safari Booking

As already mentioned, Panna National Park offers jeep safaris to traverse through all four zones. There is no elephant safari available in Panna, unlike other national parks in India. Booking in advance is highly recommended as the number of vehicles allowed inside the park is limited. Booking of jeeps or individual seats in a jeep can be conducted online to secure the safari ride in advance.

Step 4: Choose Accommodation

A trip to Panna National Park requires at least 2-3 days. Hence, it is important to book accommodation to stay near the national forest to enjoy the safari and the nearby sightseeing. Various accommodation options are available near Panna National Park, ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly lodges. Ensure to choose a place that suits the comfort level and budget, keeping in mind the proximity to the national park’s entry gates.

Step 5: Plan Your Travel to Panna

Panna is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Khajuraho, about 25 km from the national park. If travelling by train, Khajuraho Railway Station and Satna Railway Station are the closest major railheads, located about 22 km and 75 km away, respectively. Visitors can hire a taxi or rent a vehicle to reach Panna National Park from either location.

Step 6: Pack Essentials for the Panna Safari

When packing for the trip, ensure to carry comfortable clothing suitable for both warm and chilly temperatures, especially if you’re visiting during the winter months. Binoculars, a good camera, medicines and sunscreen are also recommended essentials for your safari experience.