Constituted from the amalgamation of three protected areas: Satpura National Park, Bori and Pachmarhi Sanctuaries, this 1339 sq. of notified tiger habitat promises a pollution free environment and a rich biodiversity. The place derives its name from the Satpura ranges – Satpura being a Sanskrit word meaning “seven mountains”. With a dynamic attitude ranging from around 300 to 1350 metres above sea
level, the great diversity of the terrain hosts a wide array of flora and fauna, rare to this part of the country, making the Satpura Tiger Reserve a unique place beyond tigers. Bori is the oldest reserve forest of India, tracing its conservation history back to 1879. The area is also known for its finest quality teak and miscellaneous forests. Pachmarhi is the only hill station of Madhya Pradesh, boasting its sunrise and sunset point Dhupgarh to be the highest peak of the Central India. It gives the impression of an island of sal forest, surrounded by teak and miscellaneous forests. The sparkling waterfalls and its meandering streams through the lush green forests of Pachmarhi attract tourists throughout the year. Vehicle safaris, motorcycle rides, bicycle rides and trekking are the popular modes of travel through here. Besides Pachmarhi, Madhai and Churna are the other tourism zones to the Satpura Tiger Reserve, the latter two providing wildlife viewing experience to its visitors. The panoramic view of the Denwa backwaters, with the backdrop of the Madhai forest range makes for a picturesque sight. This area offers the option to roam the forest on vehicles, boats, canoes, elephants or your own feet. Churna is another location in tourism zone with lodging and boarding facilities. It is situated deep inside the core forest. Known for its dense teak woodland, Churna can be reached from Bhimkund Gate of the Reserve on Betul-Hosangabad road. Apart from the sighting of big cats, the arboreal Flying Squirrel and Giant Squirrel are of added attraction.
