Fossil National Park

Introduction

Ghughua Fossil National Park is a unique protected area in Madhya Pradesh devoted to preserving fossilised remains of ancient flora — especially plant fossils dating back millions of years. 

This park offers a rare window into Earth’s geological and botanical past, showcasing petrified wood, leaf, fruit and seed fossils from eras when the region had very different climate and vegetation. Visitors get a chance to see fossil evidence of ancient forests that existed tens of millions of years ago — a must-visit for geology and nature enthusiasts. 

Location & Landscape

• Location: Ghughua Fossil Park is located in village Ghughua, in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh. It lies about 70 km from Dindori town. 

• Area: The fossil park spans roughly 75 acres (approximately 30–35 hectares) — a compact but remarkable preserve of ancient natural history. 

• Terrain & Setting: The site sits amid gentle hills and forested terrain typical of central India’s deciduous landscape. Fossils are displayed both in-situ (on open fossil trails) and inside a museum/interpretation center for study and viewing. 

Due to its modest size and location, Ghughua offers a manageable yet immersive experience — ideal for a half-day or full-day trip for visitors interested in geological heritage, paleobotany, or quiet nature exploration.

History & Scientific Significance

• The fossil-bearing site at Ghughua was first systematically documented during the 1970s by researchers including Dr. Dharmendra Prasad — then a district official and honorary secretary of the local archaeology unit. 

• In 1983, recognizing its unique geological importance, the site was officially declared a Fossil National Park — making it a legal and protected heritage zone for preservation of ancient plant fossils. 

• Ghughua showcases fossils ranging between 40 million to 150 million years old, spanning significant geological periods including the late Mesozoic (Jurassic / Cretaceous) and early Tertiary eras. 

• Fossils belong to more than 31 plant genera across 18 botanical families, reflecting diverse ancient flora. 

This makes Ghughua not just a tourist spot — but a living museum of Earth’s prehistoric vegetation and a significant resource for palaeobotanical research and education.