TheeraYatra

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Weather: Cool winters, hot summers
Budget: ₹3,000–₹12,000/day
Speciality: Diamond City of India & Tiger Reserve

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport, ~40 km from Panna
By Train: Satna Junction (75 km) and Khajuraho Railway Station (45 km) connect to major cities
By Road: Well-connected via NH 39; buses and taxis available from Khajuraho, Satna, and Jhansi

Where to Stay?

Ken River Lodge, Madla – luxury jungle retreat with riverside cottages and traditional hospitality
Panna Town – budget hotels and guesthouses near temples and diamond cutting centers

Packing List

• Light cotton clothing
• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Binoculars for wildlife spotting
• Hat and sunscreen
• Camera with zoom lens
• Light jacket for winter evenings

Top Places to Visit

Panna National Park

A 542 sq km tiger reserve with Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and over 200 bird species along Ken River.

Diamond Mines

Asia’s only active diamond mine where you can witness the extraction and processing of India’s precious diamonds.

Raneh Falls

Spectacular waterfall forming a 98-foot canyon with crystalline granite rocks in shades of pink, red, and gray.

Pandav Falls and Caves

100-foot waterfall with ancient caves believed to be a resting place of the Pandavas during their exile.

Jugal Kishore Temple

18th-century Bundela-style temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, with a diamond-studded flute and intricate architecture.

Baldeoji Temple

Unique Italian-inspired temple built in 1833, resembling St. Paul’s Cathedral with a shaligram stone idol.

Padmavati Devi Temple

Historic temple dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, believed to protect the prosperity and happiness of Panna.

Ken Gharial Sanctuary

Sanctuary along Ken River home to rare gharials, mugger crocodiles, and diverse birdlife perfect for boat safaris.

Brihaspati Kund

Natural crater waterfall in Bundelkhand with the highest waterfall in the region, surrounded by medicinal plants.

Ajaygarh Fort

Ancient Chandela dynasty fort perched on Vindhya Hills offering stunning views of Ken River and valley below.

Must-Try Experiences

Tiger Safari at Panna National Park

Embark on morning and evening jeep safaris to spot Bengal tigers, leopards, and sloth bears in their natural habitat.

Diamond Mining Tour

Visit Majhagaon mines to witness diamond extraction, crushing, and hand-picking of India’s most precious gems.

Boat Ride on Ken River

Enjoy a peaceful boat safari spotting basking crocodiles, migratory birds, and lush riverine landscapes.

Explore Bundeli Culture

Experience traditional Bundelkhandi hospitality, folk music, and authentic cuisine at local cultural centers.

Waterfall Trekking

Trek to Pandav Falls, Raneh Falls, and Brihaspati Kund during monsoon for spectacular cascading waters.

Local Cuisine

Breakfast: Poha, aloo paratha, samosas with spicy chutney
Lunch: Bundeli thali, bafla, kadhi, dal with rice
Snacks: Mawa-bati, khoprapak, namkeen, jalebis

Culture & Local Life

Panna is known as the “Diamond City of India” and home to Asia’s only active diamond mine. The town reflects rich Bundelkhandi culture with traditional Bundela architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant festivals. The region was once ruled by Maharaja Chhatrasal and the Bundela dynasty, whose legacy lives on in magnificent temples and forts. Local artisans specialize in diamond cutting, and the district holds annual diamond auctions in January. The Ken River flowing through the region adds spiritual significance, with many temples along its banks.

Local Insights

Languages: Hindi (primary), Bundeli dialect commonly spoken
Getting Around: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and hired jeeps for safaris and sightseeing
Safety Tips: Book safari permits in advance, carry water during jungle visits, respect wildlife guidelines, avoid visiting mines without official tours

Enjoy Your Yatra!