Boxing Tiger

## Overview Boxing Tiger is a sweet-water perennial spring nestled deep within the climax forests of the Panna Maharaja area in the renowned Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. Fed by natural underground sources, this spring flows year-round, even through the hot, dry summers that characterize central India's Vindhyan plateau. The Panna Tiger Reserve, established in 1981 and designated a Project Tiger reserve in 1994, spans over 540 square kilometers of rugged terrain along the Ken River valley. The reserve is celebrated for its successful tiger reintroduction program and its rich biodiversity, which includes leopards, sloth bears, Indian wolves, gharials, and over 200 species of birds. The spring sits at the heart of a remarkably pristine zone — the surrounding region of approximately 12,000 square kilometers is classified as a zero-industrial area, meaning no factories or industrial operations exist nearby. This makes the watershed feeding Boxing Tiger exceptionally clean by Indian standards. The name "Boxing Tiger" likely reflects the spring's location within prime Bengal tiger habitat, and visitors to this area may encounter tiger pugmarks, scratch marks on trees, and other signs of big cat activity along the forest trails. The climax forest surrounding the spring — mature, undisturbed woodland that has reached its final stage of ecological succession — features teak, mixed deciduous trees, and dense undergrowth that supports a thriving ecosystem. The water from this spring has historically been regarded as sweet and clean drinking water by local communities and forest visitors, though as with any natural water source, conditions can vary and independent testing is always advisable. ## Directions 1. The spring is located within the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, India, at GPS coordinates **24.678892, 80.156495**. 2. The nearest major town is **Panna**, which is approximately 25–30 km from the reserve's main entry points. 3. Access to the reserve typically requires entry through one of the official gates (Madla Gate or Hinouta Gate). Visitors must obtain a valid safari permit or entry ticket from the Panna Tiger Reserve authorities. 4. Since the spring is located deep within the reserve's forest area, reaching it will likely require a guided jeep safari or coordination with forest department officials. Independent hiking into the core zone is generally restricted. 5. Use the GPS coordinates above to locate the spring precisely, but be aware that mobile signal and GPS accuracy can be limited within the dense forest. **Note:** Entry to Panna Tiger Reserve is regulated, and visitors should check current permit requirements, seasonal closures (the reserve is typically closed during the monsoon season from July to mid-October), and safari timings before planning a visit. ## What to Expect Boxing Tiger spring emerges in a lush, shaded setting beneath the canopy of a mature climax forest. The perennial flow means you can expect water year-round, though the volume may vary between the monsoon season and the dry months of March through June. The surrounding forest is alive with wildlife. This is a must-visit destination for **wildlife enthusiasts** hoping to spot tigers, leopards, and other large mammals, as well as **ornithologists** — the reserve is home to species such as the Indian vulture, white-rumped vulture, paradise flycatcher, and numerous raptors. **Hikers and nature lovers** will appreciate the pristine, undisturbed forest environment and the remarkable air quality that comes with being in the center of a vast zero-industrial zone. Because this spring is located within a protected tiger reserve, visitors should be prepared for a wilderness experience: - **Wildlife awareness** is essential — you are in active tiger territory. Follow all guidelines provided by your safari guide or forest officials. - The terrain can be uneven and rocky, typical of the Vindhyan landscape. Sturdy footwear is recommended. - Facilities are minimal to nonexistent at the spring itself. Carry what you need. - The best time to visit is generally **November through March**, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent as animals congregate around water sources like this spring. - During the hotter months (April–June), the spring becomes an even more important water source for wildlife, increasing the chances of animal sightings nearby — but temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F).