A Guide to Plan a Panna Safari from Varanasi by Train
By JAGAT (18/Feb/25) Panna National Park, nestled in Madhya Pradesh, is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the tranquil Ken River that flows through it, the park offers an incredible safari experience. It’s also famous for its lush flora and scenic views of the Ken River, making it a perfect destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. A jeep safari through the park provides visitors with a chance to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. For those planning to visit from Varanasi, traveling by train offers a convenient and budget-friendly option. From understanding the best train routes and ticket booking tips to organizing your safari schedule, this guide will cover all the essentials for a memorable experience.
Reaching Panna National Park from Varanasi by Train
The nearest railway station to Panna National Park is the Khajuraho Junction, just 22 km away. However, there is only one train that connects Varanasi to Khajuraho, that too, it only runs on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. Therefore, boarding a train to Satna is the best alternative. The travelling time from Varanasi to Satna is approximately 6-7 hours, and it takes additional 2 hours to reach Panna National Park from Satna. There are around 13 trains that connect Varanasi to Satna and most of them run on a daily basis. Therefore, planning your journey is much easier from Varanasi to Satna and then to Panna National Park. Alternatively, you can also cover the entire distance to Panna National Park by road. The distance from Varanasi is about 370 km which involves a drive of 8 hours roughly.
A Comprehensive Itinerary for Panna Safari from Varanasi
Day 1 - Your journey begins with a train ride from Varanasi to Satna, which takes about 6-7 hours. Once you arrive in Satna, take a short drive to your resort or hotel in Panna. After checking in, take some time to unwind and relax after the journey. You can explore the surroundings or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your accommodation. The day will end with a leisurely dinner, giving you the perfect opportunity to rest up for your exciting safari ahead. The next morning, you'll take an early morning train to Panna, arriving by afternoon. After a hearty lunch, you can spend the afternoon relaxing and preparing for your adventure.
Day 2 - After breakfast, get ready for your first jeep safari in the park. The morning safari will take you through the core zones like Madla and Hinouta, where you might spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. For the evening safari, you’ll head to the buffer zones such as Akola and Jinna. Be sure to make your Panna online safari booking in advance to secure your spot in these prime safari zones. Don’t forget your camera to capture the moments.
Day 3 - After enjoying your morning safari and breakfast, check out from your accommodation and head back to Satna for your return train journey. Board a late morning train and relax as you make your way back to Varanasi, where you’ll arrive by the end of the day. This marks the end of your memorable wildlife adventure in Panna National Park.