The park hosts a rich variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, nilgai, chital, sambar, and wild boar. It's particularly known for its significant population of crocodiles in Sakhya Sagar Lake. The park is also home to over 120 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Notable avian species include paradise flycatchers, white-naped woodpeckers, and various waterfowl. The artificial lake attracts numerous migratory birds during winter months, enhancing the park's biodiversity.
The vegetation of Madhav National Park consists primarily of Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forests interspersed with patches of grassland. Dominant tree species include teak, kardhai, khair, and dhawa. The park also features extensive bamboo thickets and medicinal plants. During the monsoon season, the landscape transforms with lush greenery and wildflowers. The park's varied topography supports different vegetation zones, from dense forest covers to open woodland areas, providing diverse habitats for wildlife.
The park's terrain is characterized by typical Vindhyan topography featuring gentle to steep hills, plateaus, and valleys. The landscape is dominated by sandstone formations dating back to the Upper Vindhyan period, with elevations ranging from 400-500 meters above sea level. The area contains numerous natural springs and water bodies, including the artificial Sakhya Sagar Lake. The rocky outcrops and mixed soil types create diverse microhabitats that support the park's varied flora and fauna.
Formerly known as Shivpuri National Park, Madhav National Park was established in 1958 and named after Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia of Gwalior. The park was originally developed as a hunting ground for the Mughal emperors and later served as a summer resort for the Scindia rulers of Gwalior. The historic George Castle and Sakhya Sagar Lake, built during the British period, stand as testimonies to its royal heritage. The park was designated as a protected area to preserve its unique ecosystem and the historical monuments within its boundaries.
Key attractions include the historic George Castle, offering panoramic views of the park, and the Sakhya Sagar Lake with its boat club. The park features several viewing points and watchtowers ideal for wildlife observation. The Madhav Lake View Point provides excellent opportunities for photography and bird watching. The park also contains ancient temples and archaeological sites. Safari routes are well-maintained, allowing visitors to explore different zones of the park, and the interpretation center offers valuable information about the park's ecology and history.
Madhav National Park experiences a typical Central Indian climate with distinct seasons. Summers (March-June) are hot and dry with temperatures reaching 45°C, while winters (November-February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 8-25°C. The monsoon season (July-September) brings moderate rainfall averaging 800mm annually. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is comfortable for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most pleasant conditions for safari drives and nature walks.
India
25.5170°, 77.7330°
1959
354
Madhav National Park was once the hunting ground of the Maharajas of Gwalior. The park features a mix of forest and grassland ecosystems around the Sakhya and Madhav Sagar lakes. It is known for its population of gharial crocodiles and various species of deer.