Narsinghgarh Wildlife Sanctuary also known as Chidi Kho Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Established in 1978, it covers of dry deciduous forest on the northern edge of the Malwa Plateau.
The sanctuary is characterized by dry deciduous trees such as teak (Tectona grandis), dhawda (Anogeissus latifolia), saja (Terminalia tomentosa), khair (Acacia catechu) and understorey species including bamboo and tendu.
Large herbivores include chital (Axis axis), sambar (Rusa unicolor) and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), which roam freely around Chidikho Lake in the sanctuaryâÂÂs centre. Leopards (Panthera pardus) have also been recorded in the area, often venturing close to Narsinghgarh town.
The sanctuary supports over 175 species of resident and migratory birds, including the state bird of Madhya Pradesh,the Indian paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi), and large numbers of peafowl (Pavo cristatus).
Chidikho Lake is the main bird-watching spot. Visitors can explore natural caves bearing ancient red and white wall paintings. The best season to visit is NovemberâÂÂJune. The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal (âÂÂ85 km), and the nearest railhead is Biaora (âÂÂ35 km), with road access via NH-46.
A 2019 government study assessed the impact of tourism and unregulated development on Madhya PradeshâÂÂs protected areas, recommending carrying-capacity limits and habitat-friendly infrastructure in sanctuaries like Narsinghgarh.