From Kanha to Bandhavgarh: Madhya Pradesh’s national parks to visit in October

October marks the start of the safari season across Madhya Pradesh. The forests reopen after the monsoon, and the scenery is at its most photogenic. The temperature is at its most comfortable stage, perfect for an exciting morning or evening safari. Visibility is excellent, the air is crisp, and migratory birds begin to arrive... To put it simply, there couldn’t be a more perfect time for jungle safaris. Before the peak winter tourist rush begins in November and December, this is that window where there is still some serenity before everything turns into a mad rush. If you’ve been waiting to plan a wildlife adventure, October is the ideal month.

Arguably one of India’s most famous tiger reserves, Kanha National Park spans more than 940 sq km, and is one of the best-maintained national parks in India. The mix of sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, and winding streams also make it one of the most photogenic forests in India. Visit Kanha for the tigers, barasinghas (swamp deer), leopards, wild dogs, gaur, and more than 300 bird species, both resident and migratory

If you dream of seeing a tiger in the wild, Bandhavgarh National Park should top your October travel list. Did you know that it was once the hunting reserve of the Maharajas of Rewa? Now this park boasts one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in India. After the monsoon rains, the forest is fresh and rejuvenated, perfect time to go look at the tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deers, and several species of birds.

Straddling the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, Pench National Park is another wildlife gem. October is a perfect time to explore Pench, mainly because of dense mahua trees, fresh green grasslands, clear rivers, and pleasant weather. It’s the best time for safaris, as animals, including tigers, leopards, jackals, wild boar, and several bird species, are often seen near water bodies.

For travellers who prefer solitude and less commercialised destinations, look no further. Satpura National Park is the ideal October retreat. Unlike the more crowded reserves, Satpura offers a peaceful wilderness experience. The park is located near Pachmarhi, and is spread across rugged terrain of sandstone peaks, deep ravines, and dense forests. What sets Satpura apart is its unique range of safaris: jeep, boat, walking, and canoe safaris

Situated along the Ken River, Panna National Park is known for its scenic canyons, waterfalls, and tiger population. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1994, it has become a remarkable success story of tiger conservation. After being nearly wiped out, the park’s tiger population has rebounded impressively. October brings out the best of Panna — the waterfalls like Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls are at their most spectacular, and the dense teak forests shimmer in shades of gold and green. Apart from tigers, you can spot leopards, chinkaras, and gharials basking along the Ken River.