If you’re planning a safari with kids, start here
If you’re choosing between Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore, and Panna, this guide will help you decide.
While Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore are more popular, they can also feel crowded and rushed—especially with kids.
Panna National Park, on the other hand, offers something different:
👉 A calmer, more relaxed safari experience
We chose to stay at Pashan Garh, Panna National Park, A Taj Safari, and it completely shaped our experience of Panna.
Getting There: A Scenic and Easy Journey
Pashan Garh is located about 1.5 hours from Khajuraho Airport, making it relatively easy to access.
The drive itself is part of the experience:
- Lush greenery
- Quiet roads
- A gradual shift from city to jungle
You’ll also pass by the Pandav Caves, adding a bit of history to the route.
Staying at Pashan Garh: A Jungle Experience Like No Other
What makes Pashan Garh truly special is its location.
Set in the buffer zone of Panna National Park, the property doesn’t feel separate from the forest—it feels like part of it.
We were told by the staff that:
- Tigers have been spotted within the property
- Especially near the swimming pool during summers
Because of this, one important rule is strictly followed:
👉 Guests are not allowed to walk alone after dark
Even for dinner, a staff member accompanies you to the restaurant, which is located a short walk away.
It might feel unusual at first—but it adds to the authenticity of staying in the wild.
The Cottages: Rustic Luxury in the Middle of Nature
The cottages at Pashan Garh are built using stone, giving them a rustic yet elegant feel.
Inside, the space is:
- Open and airy
- Designed with earthy tones
- Simple but thoughtfully detailed
What made it special for us:
- We could see deer roaming right outside our room
- Langurs were often visible around the property
- Large windows brought the outdoors inside
The bathroom was spacious and beautifully designed, adding a touch of comfort to the rugged surroundings.
The Highlight: Your Own Jungle Machan
One of the most memorable parts of our stay was the open machan-style deck attached to the cottage.
Surrounded by trees and slightly elevated, it’s the perfect place to:
- Sit quietly
- Listen to the forest
- Just slow down
It’s not an activity—but it becomes one of your favorite experiences.
Food & Dining Experience
The lodge follows a structured but relaxed dining routine.
Breakfast:
A mix of Indian and continental options:
- Poha, idli, dosa, parathas
- Cereals, bread, butter
Lunch & Dinner:
Fixed menus including:
- 2–3 vegetable curries
- Dal, rice
- Multiple types of bread
- At least 2 desserts
Small touches we appreciated:
- Evening hi-tea with snacks
- A warm lemon drink after safaris
There’s also a souvenir shop within the property.
Panna National Park Safari Experience
We opted for an afternoon safari, and the experience felt noticeably calmer compared to other parks.
The forest is:
- Scenic and green
- Open and less crowded
We were fortunate to spot:
- A family of elephants
- Two tigers
- Sambar Deer
But what stood out even more was the overall feel:
- Fewer vehicles
- Less rush
- More time to actually enjoy the surroundings
Morning safaris include breakfast in the jungle, but we chose to skip them with kids.
Why Panna Works So Well with Kids
Traveling with kids changes how you experience safaris.
Panna felt easier because:
- It wasn’t overcrowded
- Safaris didn’t feel chaotic
- The property itself offered space to relax
Even simple moments—like spotting deer near the cottage or spending time at the pool—became highlights.
A Simple Moment That Stayed With Us
Before checkout, we spent some time in the swimming pool, right in the middle of the jungle.
No big plans, no rush.
Just being there was enough.
Panna vs Other National Parks (Quick Comparison)
If you’re deciding between parks:
- Choose Panna if you want:
- Peaceful, less crowded experience
- A slower pace with kids
- Choose Bandhavgarh if you want:
- Higher chances of tiger sightings
- Choose Ranthambore if you want:
- Easier accessibility and iconic landscapes
(You can also read my detailed guides on Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore for a deeper comparison.)
Things to Know Before You Go
- You cannot walk alone at night inside the property
- The restaurant is a short walk (with staff escort)
- Safari sightings can vary—but the experience remains worthwhile
Final Verdict: Is Panna National Park Worth It?
Panna may not be the most famous safari destination—but that’s exactly its advantage.
If you’re looking for:
- A calm and less crowded safari
- A comfortable experience with kids
- A stay that feels deeply connected to nature
Then Panna, combined with a stay at Pashan Garh, is a fantastic choice.
It’s not just about spotting wildlife.
It’s about experiencing the jungle—even when you’re not on a safari.
FAQs
Is Panna National Park good for kids?
Yes. It’s less crowded and more relaxed, making it ideal for families.
Which is better: Panna or Bandhavgarh?
Bandhavgarh offers better tiger sighting chances, while Panna provides a more peaceful and less crowded experience.
Is Pashan Garh worth it?
If you’re looking for a luxury jungle stay that feels immersive and unique, Pashan Garh is absolutely worth it.
Before You Go
If you’re planning a safari trip, don’t just pick the most popular park.
Sometimes, the quieter ones create the best memories.