This reserve, entered from Madhai 93km northwest of Pachmarhi by road, counts an estimated 40-odd tigers and unknown number of leopards; chances of sighting the latter, along with Indian gaurs, sloth bears, monkeys, deer and birds of all type, are decent. Safaris can be arranged through agencies, online (www.mponline.gov.in) or at the gate itself.
On top of your 4WD entrance fee, you will need to pay for a guide per vehicle (₹300). 4WDs hold up to six people in addition to the guide and driver. Boat safaris can also be arranged for up to 10 people (per boat ₹4000, 45 minutes). Accommodation in the reserve is limited and expensive, but there’s an affordable Forest Rest House bookable from Madhai Gate itself.
To reach Madhai, shared 4WDs leave when full between 6am and 8pm from the Pachmarhi bus stand (per person ₹150, three hours).
