Kanha National Park, located in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s premier tiger reserves and among the most well-maintained national parks in the country. Spanning over 940 square kilometers, it is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, majestic landscapes, and vibrant wildlife. Established in 1955, Kanha became a core part of the Project Tiger Reserve in 1973. Its lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, and tranquil streams inspired Rudyard Kipling’s famous work, The Jungle Book.
History and Overview
Kanha National Park was initially a hunting ground for British officials before being declared a wildlife sanctuary. Over time, it gained prominence for its conservation efforts, especially in saving the endangered Barasingha (swamp deer), which is now proudly known as the “Jewel of Kanha.” Today, the park is one of the finest examples of sustainable wildlife tourism and biodiversity preservation.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The park boasts dense forests dominated by sal, bamboo, and mixed deciduous trees. The sprawling grasslands, locally known as maidans, are ideal grazing grounds and add to the park’s scenic beauty. Rare plants like Kanha Grasslands are unique to this region.
Fauna
Kanha is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including:
- Tigers: The Bengal tiger is the park’s prime attraction.
- Barasingha: This swamp deer species is Kanha’s mascot.
- Leopards
- Wild Dogs (Dholes)
- Indian Bison (Gaur)
- Sloth Bears
- Blackbucks
- Indian Python
The park also hosts over 300 species of birds, including the Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Grey Hornbill, and White-bellied Drongo.
Main Attractions
- Tiger Spotting
Kanha is renowned for its high density of tigers. Safaris offer thrilling opportunities to spot these majestic predators in their natural habitat. - Barasingha Meadows
Visit the designated swampy grasslands to see the park’s iconic species, the Barasingha, grazing in herds. - Bamni Dadar (Sunset Point)
This elevated spot offers breathtaking views of the park, especially during sunset, making it a favorite among photographers. - Kanha Museum
Located within the park, this museum provides insights into the park’s history, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. - Jeep and Elephant Safaris
Guided jeep and elephant safaris take visitors deep into the park for unparalleled wildlife experiences.
Opening Hours and Closed Days
- Opening Hours:
- Morning Safari: 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
- Closed Days:
- The park remains closed every Wednesday afternoon.
- It is completely closed during the monsoon season (July to mid-October).
Ticket Fees
- Indian Nationals: ₹1,500–₹2,000 per vehicle (for six people)
- Foreign Nationals: ₹3,000–₹4,000 per vehicle
- Guide Fee: ₹360 per safari (mandatory)
- Elephant Safari Fee: ₹500–₹800 per person
- Camera Fee: ₹250 for still cameras and ₹1,000 for video cameras
Note: Fees may vary depending on the zones and booking portals.
Booking Procedure
Online Booking
Visitors can book safaris online through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department’s official website.
Steps:
- Visit the official website.
- Choose your preferred date, time (morning/evening), and zone.
- Fill in personal details (ID proof is required).
- Make the payment online.
Offline Booking
On-spot bookings are available but are subject to availability. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (November to April).
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, around 165 km from Kanha. Other nearby airports include Nagpur Airport (260 km) and Raipur Airport (270 km).
By Train
The closest railway stations are:
- Jabalpur Railway Station (165 km)
- Gondia Railway Station (145 km)
By Road
Kanha is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Raipur.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kanha National Park is from October to June, with the peak wildlife-spotting season being from March to June. During the summer months, animals frequent water sources, making sightings more frequent.
Nearest Attractions
- Bandhavgarh National Park
Located about 215 km from Kanha, this park is another tiger haven and a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. - Pench National Park
Approximately 250 km away, this park inspired The Jungle Book and is known for its tiger population. - Amarkantak
A spiritual town about 220 km away, famous for its temples and the origin of the Narmada River. - Jabalpur
Known for the stunning Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat and Dhuandhar Waterfalls, Jabalpur is around 165 km from Kanha.
Important Facts
- Zones: The park is divided into four main safari zones: Kisli, Kanha, Mukki, and Sarhi. Each offers unique landscapes and wildlife experiences.
- Conservation Success: Kanha’s conservation efforts successfully saved the Barasingha from near extinction.
- Eco-Friendly Tourism: The park promotes responsible tourism to minimize the environmental impact.
- Jungle Book Connection: Kanha’s landscapes inspired Rudyard Kipling’s iconic book, making it a nostalgic experience for fans.
Guidelines for Visitors
- Follow the park’s rules and regulations strictly.
- Do not litter or disturb wildlife.
- Always stay with your guide or safari group.
- Wear earthy-colored clothing for safaris to blend with the environment.
Kanha National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its serene landscapes, vibrant biodiversity, and thrilling safaris offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a photographer, a family traveler, or an adventure seeker, Kanha promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Plan your visit to this enchanting wilderness and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that makes Kanha one of India’s finest national parks!