PANNA

 

 Titled as the diamond city of India, Panna a charming place in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is bestowed with a good number of precious diamond mines. A nature lovers delight, Panna is an authentic bliss blessed with a salubrious climate and most showy spectacles. This natural oxygen bar with a fantastic combo of the sloppy hills, rocky backdrops and bewitching waterfalls makes it a popular picnicker’s destination. 

 

 This harmonious city houses numerous temples which captivates the tourist with its rare fusion of Hindu-Muslim styles of architecture. Panna is also the pious devout centre for the people belonging to the Pranami religion. Panna lies at close proximities to the world famous Khajuraho group of temples. 

 

 The tour journey of Panna can be started off by first visiting the Panna National Park which is an abode for many animal species and about 200 varieties of avian fauna. Madala & Hinouta huts located close to the reserve provide lodging facilities to the tourists. The meandering waterfalls of Pandav and Gatha leave the visitors speechless. Ajaygarh Fort, Badi Devi Temple and Jugal Kishoreji Temple are the other prime stop over destinations. Pran Nath Temple(1795) and Shri Baldeoji Temple are the shrines of cultural importance. The state tourism board organises trips to visit the spectacular diamond mines and is a life-time experience. 

 You can travel to Panna to relax, as the scenery in the town is one of its kind and unique. With its lustrous forest and heavenly sceneries, Panna has now attained the glory of a sparkling and impressive tourist destination.

                                                 PLACES TO VISIT

Panna National Park : Located to the side of Ken River, The Panna National Park is spread across an area of 543 kms, the former hunting place of the royal families belonging to the places of Chattarpur and Panna, the place encloses rich cover of the valuable teak trees, open meadows and illuminating waterfalls. Animals like Leopard, Wolf, Gharial, Blue Bulls, Chinkaras, Sambars, The Wild Boar, the Sloth Bear, the Cheetal, the Chowsingha, the Indian Fox, Porcupine can be sighted. The fly-catchers can also be seen in large numbers. About 200 species of migratory birds fills excitement in the heart of the people, which come and breed here during the winter season. Animal species which are facing the threat of extinction like Tiger, Carcal, Four-horned antelope, Indian Wolf, Pangolin, Rusty Spotted Cat and Sloth Bear can also be seen in the park. Crocodiles, Gharial, fish and turtles are some of the water animals. 

Pandav Waterfall : This amazing falls located in the Panna National Park is about 12 kms away from the heart of the city. Placed amidst the spectacular green surroundings, the falls fall from a height of about 100 feet. At the bottom of the falls there are ancient caves. 

Gatha Fall : This stunning 300 feet falls is located by the side of the highway.

Mahamati Prannathji Temple : It is an important temple for the people belonging to the Pranami religion. This temple constructed in about 1692 AD has 8 pahals and 201 domes are present in each pahal. Muslim architecture is clearly seen in the central dome and the lotus on top of the dome is of Hindu style. Kaman Darwaza is the main entrance which is made up of silver. People attend the temple in large numbers during Sharada Poornima. 

Badi Devi Temple : Is an old sanctum dedicated to Mata Padmavati. People believe that the goddess protects Panna from all disasters and spread joy. Nav-Durgotsava is the main festival. 

Baldeoji Temple : This temple is a fusion of Roman, Paladian and Gothick styles of architecture. The temple consists of a large pillar hall called Maha mantapa. Black Saligrami stone is used in making of the idol of Lord Baldeoji.

Jugal Kishoreji Temple : This temple built in Bandela style is one of the prime Hindu shrines. Ram-Janki Temple, Swamiji Temple, Sarang Temple, Baiji Temple, Govindji Temple are also some of the prominent shrines. 

Ajaygarh Fort : This ancient fort of immense historic significance is about 36 kms from Panna. Measuring about 690 mts, this fort was the capital of the Chandelas. 

Nachna

                                                HOW TO REACH

By Air : The nearest airport is in Khajuraho which is about 25kms from Panna. This airport has regular flights to Agra and Delhi.  

By Bus : Buses and taxis are available to Khajuraho. 

By Rail : Jhansi (180 km), Satna (90 km) and Katni(150 km) are the prominent railway stations.