Satpura National Park is a hidden wildlife gem in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. Located adjacent to the scenic Pachmarhi hill station, and just about 110 km from Bhopal, Satpura serves as an iconic weekend destination, especially for long weekends. Satpura offers a serene and offbeat experience, making it ideal for nature lovers who want to explore the forest without the rush. What sets Satpura apart is its unique safari experience. Here, you’re not limited to just jeep safaris. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, canoe rides, and boat safaris - all of which let you see wildlife from a different perspective. Its close proximity to Bhopal makes it perfect for a 2-night, 3-day weekend getaway. You don’t need to plan too far ahead, thanks to easy online booking systems, your trip can be arranged quickly. This itinerary is ideal for anyone looking at Satpura tour packages that combine adventure, nature, and relaxation in one short yet fulfilling journey.
The journey to Satpura National Park from Bhopal involves both road as well as rail route. While a road trip to Satpura National Park from Bhopal is via NH 46, tourists can also opt for a train ride from Bhopal to Itarsi, followed by a road transfer. Depending on your budget and transport preference you can plan the commute to the wildlife gem.
Day 1: Departure from Bhopal & First Brush with the Wild
Your weekend begins with an early morning departure from Bhopal. Upon arrival at the park gate, you’ll complete the entry process. Thanks to Satpura online booking, this step is smooth and hassle-free. After a brief orientation, you’ll prepare for your first encounter with the wild: a boat safari on the Denwa River. This calm and scenic river ride offers a peaceful introduction to Satpura’s wilderness.
In the evening, enjoy a guided jeep safari in the buffer zone to watch the sun set behind the dense sal forests. The atmosphere is tranquil, the air fresh, and the sounds of the forest come alive. Day 1 is all about slowly immersing yourself in nature and enjoying light adventure in a truly offbeat setting.
Day 2: Walking Safari & Jeep Safari Exploration
The second day starts early with one of Satpura’s most unique features - a walking safari inside the buffer zone. Accompanied by experienced forest guides and naturalists, you’ll quietly trek through the forest on foot. This gives you a closer and more personal look at the jungle and its inhabitants. After the walk, you can take a short break and enjoy some downtime near the riverbanks or watchtowers, which are great spots for wildlife photography. The park’s calm atmosphere allows for peaceful observation of nature.
In the late afternoon, you’ll head out on a jeep safari into the deeper parts of the forest. This safari covers a larger area and increases your chances of spotting some of Satpura’s elusive residents - leopards, dholes, Indian gaurs, and more. What makes the experience even better is the fact that Satpura is never overcrowded. Unlike other parks, you won’t find long lines of jeeps or noisy tourists. The safaris here are quiet and respectful of the forest, making the experience more intimate and rewarding.
Day 3: Canoe Ride & Departure to Bhopal
On your final morning, get ready for something truly special - a canoe ride through the gentle waters of the Denwa backwaters. These early hours are perfect for spotting migratory birds, otters, and aquatic reptiles. The silence of the canoe and the early morning light create a magical atmosphere, offering a peaceful farewell to the wild.
Following a light lunch, it’s time to begin the drive back to Bhopal. Although the trip is short, it feels incredibly fulfilling. You’ll return refreshed, with unforgettable memories and perhaps even a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
