Ken Gharial Sanctuary

Ken Gharial Sanctuary is a riverine wildlife sanctuary along the Ken River in Chhatarpur and Panna districts of Madhya Pradesh, near Rajnagar and Khajuraho. Established in 1981 to conserve the critically endangered gharial and mugger crocodile, it covers about 45 sq km at the confluence of the Ken and Khudar rivers. Notable for its rocky gorges, sandy banks and rich birdlife, it forms part of the Panna landscape and offers wildlife viewing in a natural river habitat.

Visitors can expect a natural riverine landscape along the Ken River with rocky gorges, sandbanks and forested banks. The main attraction is sighting gharials and mugger crocodiles basking on sandbanks, along with turtles, water birds and occasional mammals. Access is typically via guided jeep and boat safaris on the Ken River. There are viewpoints along the river, forest trails and interpretation areas. The setting is quiet and natural, with opportunities for photography and birdwatching.

Notified in 1981 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, specifically to conserve the gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) and mugger crocodile along the Ken River. The sanctuary protects a 45 sq km stretch of the Ken and Khudar rivers and is managed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department as part of the Panna conservation landscape.