Credit: Kishore Talegaonkar
Madhya Pradesh is home to many wildlife sanctuaries; in this article, we will take you on a journey through Madhav National Park. Home to scenic landscapes and architectural marvels, Madhav National Park is situated in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh. Rich in flora and fauna, Madhav National Park takes you on a journey that offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
The Origins of Madhav National Park
In the past, Madhav National Park was a hunting ground for the Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia of Gwalior. Later, in 1955, after independence, the wildlife park was renamed from Madhya Bharat National Park to Madhav National Park. In the Mughal era, it was said that, in 1564 CE, Akbar captured elephants from these forests for his stables. A thriving wildlife sanctuary attracts many rulers for hunting expeditions in the region.
Exploring the Park’s Natural Splendor
Spread over an area of 375 square kilometers, Madhav National Park offers a breathtaking combination of lush greenery and architectural marvels that were constructed by the ruler of Gwalior. Madhav National Park is home to tigers, wild pigs, jackals, and leopards, as well as Chinkara, Nilgai, and deer. The combination of dry deciduous and dry thorn forests provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
Lake and Forest Ecosystems
The unique feature of Madhav National Park is the coexistence of lake and forest ecosystems. It’s the home of two prominent lakes, Sakhya, and Madhav Sagar. These lakes are a prominent source of water for wildlife and also enhance the natural beauty of the park. Several migratory birds are also attracted to the region during the winter. An abundant population of marsh crocodiles is found in the Sakhya Sagar Lake.
Attractions and Activities
Boating and Birdwatching
Visitors can enjoy numerous activities in Madhav Rao National Park. A boating experience on Sakhay Sagar Lake is a fantastic opportunity. The serene ambiance and a myriad of avian species in tranquil water are great things to discover.
The Shooting Box and George Castle
There are many architectural buildings inside Madhav National Park. Overviewing the majestic view of Sakhya Sagar Lake, Shooting Box, a viewing lake, was constructed by the Scindias.
George Castle, another captivating attraction, was built by Ruler George Caste to accommodate British King George V during his tiger hunting expedition. Structures like these offer a park’s royal past to visitors.
Best Time to Visit Madhav National Park
The best time to visit Madhav National Park is during the months of October and March. During these months, the weather in the region is pleasant. In the winter months, several migratory birds also flock to the region, which offers a unique birdwatching experience.