Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve – Complete Travel & Safari Guide

Overview

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve is a majestic wildlife sanctuary located in the Sidhi and Shahdol districts of Madhya Pradesh, in the north-eastern part of the state. It was established to protect and conserve the rich natural heritage of the region, forming an essential part of India’s tiger conservation network.

The reserve is named after its two main protected areas — Sanjay National Park and Dubri Wildlife Sanctuary — which together create a vast wilderness covering over 1,674 sq. km of diverse habitats including dense Sal forests, bamboo groves, river valleys, grasslands, and plateaus.

This reserve has historic significance in tiger conservation, as the world-famous white tiger “Mohan” — considered the ancestral origin of many white tigers in zoos worldwide — was first discovered here in 1951.

Sanjay-Dubri is known for its rich biodiversity, home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs (dhole), chital deer, nilgai, chinkara, Indian wolf, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and freshwater fish species. It also hosts more than 150 species of birds, making the reserve a paradise for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers alike.

Location & Geography

The reserve lies in the north-eastern corridor of Madhya Pradesh, bordering neighbouring wildlife landscapes and connecting to other protected areas, enhancing its role in facilitating tiger movement and genetic exchange.

• Sidhi District – Major portion of the reserve
• Shahdol District – Part of the protected area
• Spreads across valleys, forests and waterways, creating ideal conditions for diverse flora and fauna.

How to Reach

By Road

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve is well connected by road to major cities:

• Bhopal to Sanjay-Dubri: approx. ~640 km
• Rewa to Sanjay-Dubri: ~112–120 km
• Sidhi town: nearby access to the reserve via NH roads
• Frequent taxis and buses are available from nearby transit points.

By Railway

Nearby railway stations include:

• Dubri and Kanchanpur (inside or near sanctuary buffer areas)
• Marwasgram (Majhauli), Sidhi (~33–40 km)
• Rewa Station (~117 km)
• Satna Station (~154 km)
  These railheads connect the reserve with major cities like Jabalpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj and Mirzapur.

By Air

• Varanasi Airport (BHU) – ~250–275 km
• Prayagraj Airport (IXD) – ~198–206 km
• Jabalpur Airport (JLR) – ~260–275 km
  From airports, visitors can hire taxis or join tour transfers to reach the reserve.

Best Time to Visit

• November to June: Ideal for wildlife safaris and tiger sightings with pleasant weather and dry trails.
• October to February: Cool days, good for birdwatching and early morning safaris.
• March to June: Warm weather increases tiger visibility near waterholes.
• Monsoon (July–September): Reserve remains closed to visitors due to heavy rains.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Flora

The terrain is dominated by:

• Dense Sal forests
• Bamboo groves
• Mixed deciduous vegetation and grasslands
  These provide crucial habitat and cover for wildlife.

Fauna

Major wildlife species include:

• Royal Bengal Tiger – flagship species
• Leopard
• Sloth Bear
• Wild Dogs (Dholes)
• Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara
• Indian Wolf, Jungle Cat, Hyena
• Four-horned Antelope
• Over 150 bird species and many reptiles & amphibians
  This rich biodiversity makes Sanjay-Dubri one of the key tiger and wildlife destinations in central India.

Things to Do

• Wildlife Safari – Jeep or Canter safaris into core and buffer zones
• Bird Watching – Spot resident and migratory birdlife
• Wildlife Photography – Capture tigers, deer, birds and forest landscapes
• Nature Walks & River Trails – Explore quieter forest areas
• Camping & Eco-Tour Experiences – Night sky views and wilderness immersion
• Explore Local Culture – Visit nearby temples and tribal heritage spots e.g., Ghoghra Devi Mandir near the reserve boundary

Safari Details & Tips

• Jeep and Canter safaris are conducted under strict forest department regulations to ensure safety and minimal disturbance to wildlife.
• Safaris run morning and evening sessions, usually lasting 3–4 hours each.
• Safari permits should be booked in advance online; limited walk-in seats are available at tourism counters on a first-come basis.
• Always travel with licensed guides and forest escorts, and follow all wildlife safety rules.

Conservation & Significance

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve plays a crucial role in regional tiger conservation, acting as a source habitat and connecting corridor between other protected areas (like Bandhavgarh and Guru Ghasidas National Park), aiding tiger movement and genetic diversity.

The reserve’s management focuses on:
✔ Protecting ecological balance
✔ Enhancing tiger and prey populations
✔ Promoting sustainable eco-tourism with community involvement

Why Visit Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve?

• Untamed Wilderness: Lesser-known and less crowded than major tiger reserves, offering a more intimate wildlife experience.
• Rich Biodiversity: A wide array of mammals, birds, reptiles and riverine life.
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• Historical Importance: Linked to the discovery of the legendary white tiger Mohan.
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• Adventure & Nature: Ideal for nature lovers, photographers and adventure travellers.
  Conservation Success: Witness ongoing efforts to protect India’s wild tigers and their      habitat.