Today the greatest treasures of the country are kept safe by the vast forests of this region. It is estimated that more than half of the world's tiger population resides in India. The Panna Tiger reserve is the 22nd Tiger reserve under the project tiger umbrella in India and the 5th in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
The reserve has been heralded as an example to all the other tiger sanctuaries, after the spectacular growth in tiger population that it has demonstrated. With aid from various conservation groups such as the UK based Global tiger patrol, the Project together with hands on research and revolutionary conservation schemes being implemented by the officials of the National Park and the state forest department working along with Dr. RS Chundwahat. The reserve's meager tiger population of 2-3 tigers per 100square kilometers has grown to an impressive 7-8 per 100 kilometers (as per count in 2001). Boasting a total population of approximately 35-40 tigers. Tiger tracking is done by park rangers prior to the elephant excursion into the forest so as to increase the chances of a tiger sighting.
The Ken River, which runs through 54 kilometers of the lush forests, creating spectacular waterfalls, like the Raneh falls, The Pandava Falls and the Dhundwa falls, in its wake, is home to the marsh crocodile and the Gharial, a host of fish species like the Mahseer and carp as well as to otters and turtles. The Ken Gharial Sanctuary is also situated on the banks of this river. The Ken is one of the 16 perennial rivers of Madhya Pradesh, and has abundant waters throughout the year, making it ideal for boating trips and fishing expeditions.
The Tiger is the most well known and sought after inhabitant of these jungles. Other fauna commonly found in the Panna Tiger Reserve are, Sambhar Deer, Cheetal, Nilgai, Chinkara, Chausingha, Porcupine, Jungle cat, Hare, Tree Shrew, Mongoose, Gerbil, Langaur, Wild boar, Hyenas, Wild dog. Of the endangered species the Tiger, Leopard, Carcal, Four horned antelope, Pangolin, Indian wolf, Rusty spotted cat, Sloth Bear find homes in the varied topography of these jungles.
Over 200 species of avi-fauna have been recorded in this area, including a large number of migratory birds. Pre-Historic relics of the Gondwana Period and rock paintings, which are believed to be over 2000 years old, can also be seen inside the reserve.
The Panna Tiger reserve is considered the most important protected area in the North central highlands of India, as it encompasses and maintains a link between the eastern and western populations of wild animals through the North east and South west ranging Vinddhyan Ranges.
Mahjgaon, the only live diamond mine in the country is located approx. 54kms away from the Madla Gate of the Panna Tiger Reserve. The mines stretch through a belt of approx. 80 Kms. Visitors can walk through the mines and observe the procedures for digging out these precious gems from the cradle of the earth. For those wishing to do so, jewelry made with the local stones can also be purchased locally.
Panna is famous for its huge temples, displaying distinct and unusual architectural styles. Altogether there are 314 temples, dedicated to various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The style is a fine blend of Muslim, Hindu and western architecture.
The Khajuraho temples, a world heritage site, is situated only 35 Kms away from the Mudla Gate of the Panna Tiger Reserve. The trips, shopping expeditions and showings of the sound and light show at the temples are just a half hour drive away form the Mudla gate of the Panna Tiger Reserve.
- Total Area: 542.67 sq. km
Longitude : 79 0 45'E to 80 0 09E
| Latitude : | 24 0 27N to 24 0 46N |
| Altitude : | 211.2 meters (near Ken river, Compt. 228, Madla Range) to 540 meters (a hillock near Talgaon, Compt. 1340, Panna Range) |
| Geographical | The reserve is located on either sides of Ken river which flows from |
| Landmarks: | south to north through the Lower Vindhyan Formations within the park. |
| Rainfall : | 1100 mm, average |
| Temperature : | Mean Minimum: 5 0 C Mean Maximum 45 0 C |