Kanha National Park | Kanha Tiger Reserve in India
Madhya Pradesh, India
About Kanha National Park
Nestled in the picturesque Maikal Range of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park has long been a coveted destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados. Covering an expansive 326 square miles, this natural wonderland is a substantial part of the Mandala and Kalaghat districts.
Since its establishment in 1862, Kanha National Park has evolved into a vital tiger reserve area, while still preserving its significant role in the conservation of the Barasingha, also known as the swamp deer. The lush, dense evergreen forests populated by Sal trees and the pristine waterbodies combine to create an enchanting setting that transports visitors into a realm reminiscent of a fairy tale.
Embark on a thrilling Tiger Safari in India within the park’s boundaries, offering a unique opportunity to witness the majestic Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. Nature safari enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the diverse avian life and the park’s contribution to bird watching in India. For an immersive experience, consider combining your tiger safari with cultural tours, exploring the rich heritage of the region.
Additionally, nature enthusiasts can seamlessly extend their wildlife adventure to include tiger and leopard safaris, encounters with sloth bears, and even juxtapose the wild with cultural marvels like the iconic Taj Mahal, creating an unforgettable blend of nature and history.
Highlights
- Breathtaking Maikal Range location in Madhya Pradesh.
- Renowned for wildlife safaris and nature enthusiasts' paradise.
- 326 square miles of Mandala and Kalaghat district beauty.
- Founded in 1862, crucial tiger reserve, Barasingha conservation.
- Lush evergreen forests, crystal-clear waterbodies - enchanting ambiance.
- Exquisite Sal tree-draped landscapes invite awe-inspired exploration.
- Remarkable biodiversity: tigers, Barasingha, and diverse flora and fauna.
- A fairy-tale setting in the heart of India's natural treasures
Related Tiger Safari Tours
Kanha National Park, with its breathtaking surroundings, had a profound impact on a young Rudyard Kipling, inspiring him to create “The Jungle Book.” Families with young children will find Kanha to be an ideal vacation destination due to its numerous camping and picnic areas. When you visit, remember to travel light, as you’ll embark on treks to stunning and unspoiled locations, including Bammi Dadar, which is renowned for its spectacular sunsets.
Whether you choose a jeep safari or opt for an elephant ride, exploring Kanha National Park’s diverse landscapes will create enduring memories for you and your loved ones
Facts about Kanha National Park
Area: 051 sq. km- 940 sq. km is core and 1134 sq. km is buffer forest.
Coordinates: Latitude: 22° 7′ to 22° 27’N; longitude: 80° 26′ to 81° 3’E.
Key Species of Kanha National Park
Mammals
- Tiger
- Chital
- Sambar
- Hard Ground Barasingha
- Barking Deer
- Chousingha
- Gaur
- Langur
- Wild Pig
- Sloth Bear
Birds
- Indian Golden Oriole
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Alexandrine Parakeet
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Green Bee Eater
- Tickle’s Blue Flycatcher
- Brahminy Starling
- Yellow Footed Green Pigeon
- White Rumped Shama
- Emerald Dove
Reptiles
- Python
- Russel’s Viper
- Common Krait
- Indian Cobra
- Common Rat Snake
- Common Skink
- Fan Throated Lizard
- Indian Garden Lizard
- Indian Monitor
- Banded Krait
Safari Zones of Kanha National Park
In the Kanha tiger reserve, there are typically three types of zones: Core, Buffer, and Reserved. The core zone serves as a reference point for the natural state of the ecosystems found in the biosphere reserves. It is the protected area of the jungle where the forest department enforces strict protection for wildlife and natural resources.
| Core Zones | Entrance Gates (Full Safari) | Entrance Gate (Single Seat Safari) |
|---|---|---|
|
Kanha Zone |
Khatia / Mukki / Sarhi Gate |
Khatia Gate |
|
Mukki Zone |
Khatia / Mukki Gate |
Mukki Gate |
|
Kisli Zone |
Khatia / Mukki / Sarhi Gate |
Khatia Gate |
|
Sarhi Zone |
Khatia / Sarhi Gate |
Sarhi Gate |
The forest department designates Kanha as the premium zone, attracting more tourists, and consequently, it has a 50% higher fee. However, the other three zones are also renowned for their impressive tiger sightings. Interestingly, Kanha’s ecosystem harmoniously accommodates two other substantial predators: leopards and wild dogs, providing a delightful spectacle when spotted. Approximately 25% of the core area is accessible to tourists, offering a plethora of wildlife viewing and exploration opportunities. A typical day in Kanha involves embarking on a sunrise safari with a picnic breakfast, returning to the lodge for lunch, and then venturing out for an afternoon game drive.
Reaching Kanha National Park
Train
Reaching Kanha by Train is simple too. Trains to Gondia Railway Station – 145 km and Jabalpur Railway Station – 160 km from the park, run from major cities in the country, like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata etc. One can drive to Kanha post this point.
Flight
Kanha is a jungle, naturally not having an air strip. However, it is well connected to cities in Madhya Pradesh, that do. Jabalpur – 200 kms, Nagpur – 275 kms and Raipur – 210 kms from the park, are all well connected by air with major cities in the country, i.e. New Delhi and Mumbai.
Road
Kanha is connected to major towns in Madhya Pradesh, that can be travelled to by air or by train.
Jabalpur: At a mere distance of 160 kms, Jabalpur is just a 04 hour drive from the Park.
Raipur: At a mere distance of 250 kms, Raipur is just a 05 hour drive from the Park.
Nagpur: At a mere distance of 300 kms, Nagpur is just a 06-07 hour drive from the Park.
Weather and Clothing
- DO NOT carry shiny/bright colored clothing. Instead, carry earthy colors like shades of dull green or olive green, beige, and grey. Black is also avoidable as it attracts mosquitos.
- Carry comfortable, breathable clothes (cotton) in summer.
- Carry layers (4-5) of thin woolen clothes rather than one heavy jacket for winter. Layers are a lot more helpful through the varying temperatures during the day.
- Carry a wind cheater/rain coat just in case there is a light shower.
- Carry a Cap/Hat during summer.
- Avoid wearing strong perfume while on safari. Animals have a strong sense of smell and it may distract them.
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FAQ
Kanha National Park is one of the prominent national parks in India, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is among the prime destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park spans over 940 square kilometers, encompassing a core area where wildlife is conserved and a buffer zone that provides essential support for the ecosystem. Kanha National Park is particularly famous for its tiger population and is a significant contributor to the conservation of these majestic big cats.
To embark on a thrilling tiger safari in Kanha National Park, you can book a safari tour with the park authorities or through registered tour operators. The park offers both morning and afternoon safaris, giving you a chance to spot tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A skilled guide accompanies you on these safaris, enhancing your chances of encountering these magnificent creatures.
The ideal time for tiger safaris in Kanha National Park is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the vegetation is less dense. This period offers optimal visibility and a greater likelihood of spotting tigers, along with various other animals.
Kanha National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Apart from tigers, you can encounter leopards, wild dogs, barasingha deer, sloth bears, Indian gaur, and an abundance of bird species. The park’s varied ecosystems provide habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna.
Yes, to maintain the ecological balance and minimize disturbance to wildlife, Kanha National Park imposes restrictions on the number of vehicles allowed on safari routes each day. It’s advisable to book your safari in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, Kanha offers a selection of accommodations within the park, including government-run lodges and private resorts. Staying within the park allows you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and provides convenience for participating in early morning and afternoon safaris.
Yes, tourists are expected to adhere to a code of conduct to ensure the safety of both wildlife and visitors. This includes maintaining a safe distance from animals, refraining from littering, and following the guidance of trained guides to minimize any negative impact on the ecosystem.
Entry fees to Kanha National Park can vary based on whether you choose the core or buffer zone for your safari. The fees can also differ for Indian and foreign tourists. The premium zones, like Kanha, often have higher entry fees. It is advisable to check the latest fee structure with the park authorities or tour operators.
A typical tiger safari in Kanha National Park usually lasts for about 3-4 hours, including both morning and afternoon safaris. The park authorities have designated safari schedules to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities while minimizing disruptions to the animals.
Yes, Kanha National Park places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices. They have implemented measures to reduce the environmental impact of tourism, including waste management, restrictions on noise levels, and promotion of responsible tourism. Visitors are encouraged to support these initiatives and contribute to the conservation efforts within the park.