Panna National Park is located in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh, known for its rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Delhi, the capital city of India, is a major hub connecting various parts of the country. Many travelers from Delhi visit Panna National Park to explore its tigers, waterfalls, and natural beauty.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Panna National Park. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, routes, and useful tips to plan your journey smoothly and comfortably.

Getting from Delhi to Panna National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for reaching Panna from Delhi. The nearest railway station to Panna National Park is Khajuraho, which is well connected to Delhi by direct trains.

• Several trains run from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Khajuraho (KURJ), covering approximately 600 km in around 10 to 12 hours, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹1500 depending on class.

• The Khajuraho station is about 25 km from Panna National Park, so you will need to arrange local transport like taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach the park.

• Trains are generally comfortable with sleeper and AC coaches, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays.

• Night trains are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing, but expect some crowd during festivals like Diwali and Holi, which can affect availability.

• Food options on trains are basic; carrying snacks and water is advisable. Khajuraho station has decent waiting rooms and eateries for freshening up before the onward journey.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to travel from Delhi to Panna, though the journey is longer and less comfortable than trains. State-run and private buses connect Delhi to nearby cities like Satna and Chhatarpur.

• Direct buses from Delhi to Panna are rare, so most travelers take buses to Satna or Chhatarpur, which are about 60 to 70 km from Panna National Park.

• From Satna or Chhatarpur bus stands, you can hire local taxis or shared jeeps to reach Panna, adding about 1.5 to 2 hours of travel time.

• The total bus journey from Delhi to Satna or Chhatarpur can take 12 to 15 hours, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹1000 depending on the bus type and operator.

• Buses depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi, with options including Volvo, deluxe, and ordinary buses; Volvo buses offer more comfort but are less frequent.

• During monsoon season, roads near Panna can be slippery, so bus travel may be slower and less reliable; plan accordingly.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Panna National Park is a flexible and scenic option for those who prefer road trips. The distance is roughly 600 km via NH44 and NH39, taking about 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic.

• The route from Delhi passes through Agra, Jhansi, and Satna before reaching Panna, mostly on national highways with good road conditions and toll plazas.

• Self-driving allows you to stop at interesting places like Khajuraho temples or Orchha, adding cultural value to your trip.

• Fuel costs for the journey can range from ₹3500 to ₹5000 depending on your vehicle’s mileage; toll charges on NH44 and NH39 should also be budgeted.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid Delhi and Agra city traffic, making the journey smoother and safer.

• Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, carry a physical map or GPS device, and keep emergency contacts handy as mobile signals may be weak near forest areas.

Flight

Though Panna does not have its own airport, flying to the nearest airport and then taking road transport is a fast alternative. Khajuraho Airport is the closest airport to Panna National Park.

• Direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Khajuraho Airport (HJR) take about 1.5 hours, with daily flights operated by airlines like Air India and IndiGo.

• Flight fares typically range from ₹3000 to ₹6000 one-way, depending on the season and how early you book.

• From Khajuraho Airport, Panna National Park is around 25 km away, accessible by prepaid taxis or rental cars, which take about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

• Booking flights in advance is crucial during peak tourist seasons (October to March) to secure seats and better prices.

• Khajuraho Airport has basic facilities; plan your arrival time to avoid late evening landings as local transport options reduce after dark.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Panna National Park. It helps you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to get confirmed seats and avoid last-minute price hikes.

• If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives in Khajuraho during daylight hours to ensure easy access to local transport and safer travel to the park.

• Arrange local transport from Khajuraho railway station or airport in advance via trusted taxi services or apps like Ola and Uber, as options near the station can be limited.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes for safaris and park visits.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure, especially during monsoon and winter fog seasons, to avoid delays and cancellations.

• Inform your accommodation in Panna about your arrival time so they can assist with pick-up or local guidance, ensuring a hassle-free start to your visit.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs at Khajuraho and Panna to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially if arriving late.

• Book train and flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance during festival seasons like Diwali and Christmas to secure availability and better fares.

• Keep your luggage light and secure; avoid carrying valuables openly, as crowded stations and bus stands can attract pickpockets.

• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for forest safaris, and carry a hat and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure during daytime excursions.

• During monsoon (July to September), roads near Panna may be slippery and some forest trails closed; check with local guides before planning safaris.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Panna National Park is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are easier. Summers can be hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Delhi experiences extreme weather, so plan your departure to avoid peak summer heat or winter fog that can delay flights and trains.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Holi and Diwali when trains and flights are crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Monsoon season brings heavy rains in Madhya Pradesh, causing slippery roads and possible delays; plan accordingly if traveling between July and September.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help you avoid city traffic and reach your destination faster.

• Winter fog in northern India can cause flight delays; check weather updates before booking early morning flights.

Arrival at Panna National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Khajuraho railway station or airport, you will find limited but reliable local transport options to reach Panna National Park. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are available, though pre-booking is advisable.

Accommodation options near the park include forest lodges, resorts, and guesthouses in Panna town and nearby villages. Local buses are rare, so taxis or rental vehicles are the best way to explore the park and surrounding areas.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Panna National Park from Delhi is by taking a direct train or flight to Khajuraho, followed by a short taxi ride. This combination balances travel time, comfort, and cost effectively.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will help you avoid common travel hassles. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your trip and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of Panna National Park without stress.