Image source: Tehzoon J K
About Ratanpani Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over an area of 823 square kilometres, Ratanpani Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1976 for the purpose of conservation of diverse flora and fauna in its habitat. The sprawling natural reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, picturesque landscape, and cultural heritage.
Ratanpani is home to a variety of animals, among which the tiger is the most prominent one. In 2013, the wildlife sanctuary was given principal approval of a tiger reserve by the National Tiger Reservation Authority (NTCA), which was later confirmed in 2024 by the Government of India for the purpose of tiger reservation. After this, Ratanpani has joined the ranks of other famous tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh, such as Kanha and Bandhavgarh.
Diverse flora and fauna
The wildlife sanctuary is an ecological hotspot and part of the Vindhya Hills. It is covered with hills, valleys, plateaus, and plains. The forest cover of wildlife sanctuaries is mainly of two types: dry deciduous and moist deciduous. Among it, teak is the main tree that covers 55% of the area and bamboo covers 25% of the area overlapping both types of forest.
There are many other animals like the civet, Indian fox, wild dog, chinkara, black buck, spotted deer, barking deer, sambar deer, Hanuman langur, Indian mongoose, and several reptiles like the Indian python.
Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect spot for birdwatchers. Some of the birds that can be sighted here are the paradise flycatcher, ringed dove, white wagtail, crested bunting, white-breasted kingfisher, small blue kingfisher, red-vented bulbul, and many more.
Major Attractions
Raisen Fort
Dating back to the 13th century, the Raisen Fort is an ancient structure that is situated near the Sanctuary. On the hill, the fort offers a stunning view of the surrounding forested landscape
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bhimbetka are prehistoric caves that feature ancient rock paintings belonging to the Palaeolithic era. More than 30,000 years old, the cave has the oldest rock painting in the world. It provides a great opportunity to experience early human life.
Kolar Dam
Its a major tourist attraction, especially for picnics and scenic views of the surrounding hills and forest. Built on the Kolar River, the dam also provides water for the surrounding towns and villages.
Ginnaur Fort
It’s located at a height of 1775 feet on the Vindhya mountain range. The complex of the fort contains 25 walls and four ponds inside. If we talk about the length and breadth, then it’s 3,996 feet long and 874 feet wide.
How to reach Ratanpari Wildlife Sanctuary
The main gate to enter Ratanpari Wildlife Sanctuary is through the gate of Kherichouka. Private vehicles are not allowed inside the sanctuary. Private sanctuaries are organised that can be booked according to your needs. Both day and evening safaris are available.
By Car:
The sanctuary is located around 50 km from the city of Bhopal, which is well-connected to other major cities in India. You can hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located around 2-3 hours’ drive from Bhopal.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is Hoshangabad, which is located around 30 km away. Hoshangabad is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train to Hoshangabad and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal, which is located around 60 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary.