Kanha National Park
Madhya Pradesh
Kanha National Park is situated in the Maikal range of the Satpuras in Madhya Pradesh, the Indian state located at the geographical heart of the country. These mountains form part of the central Indian highlands. Often referred to as the Tiger Reserve, the park is widely acclaimed as one of the most pristine wildlife habitats in the world. Kanha was initially designated a reserve forest in 1879 and was later elevated to the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1933. It lies across the administrative boundaries of the Mandla and Kalaghat revenue divisions. Its significance was further enhanced in 1955 when it was officially declared a national park.
About Kanha National Park
The heart of India, Madhya Pradesh, proudly hosts Kanha National Park, nestled in the Maikal range of the Satpuras. These hills are an integral part of the central Indian highlands. Widely gaining recognition as a premier Tiger Reserve, the park is now regarded as one of the most unspoiled wildlife regions across the globe. Kanha National Park was first notified as a reserve forest in 1879 and later upgraded to a wildlife sanctuary in 1933. It lies within the revenue districts of Mandla and Kalaghat. Its status was further elevated in 1955 when it was officially declared a national park.
Situated within the Maikal hill ranges, the sprawling Kanha National Park covers an area of 940 square kilometres. When both the core and buffer zones are included, the total expanse of the Kanha Tiger Reserve reaches 1,945 square kilometres.
Nature lovers are drawn to its stunning scenery—lush meadows, dense woodlands, and flourishing sal forests offer extraordinary views. Crystal-clear streams coursing through the forest not only purify the surroundings but also enhance the richness of biodiversity, making the park both enchanting and ecologically vital. The renowned author Rudyard Kipling is said to have been inspired by this verdant landscape for his famous work, The Jungle Book.
Kanha National Park provides an ideal haven for an impressive range of wildlife including majestic tigers, the flourishing population of barasingha, and countless species of flora, birds, reptiles, and insects. With a well-developed tourist infrastructure, the reserve draws visitors from around the globe. One of the park’s most popular attractions is Bammi Dadar, or Sunset Point, a must-visit location for capturing the park’s natural splendour at its best.
What To Know About Kanha:
Best Time to Visit:
- March – May
- November – February
Reaching Kanha:
- Flight: New Delhi – Raipur
- Railway: New Delhi – Jabalpur OR New Delhi – Gondia
Wildlife in Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park harbours a rich diversity of wildlife, which enhances the park’s serene ambiance and attracts a considerable number of tourists throughout the year. The tropical central highlands of this region provide the perfect setting for the splendour and magnificence of the wild creatures that dwell within.
Although the list of species could be endless, it is the wild inhabitants that truly bring the natural world to life—both in fragrance and in feeling. Among these are the Barasingha, also known as the Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii), the Indian Wild Dog, and the most iconic of all—the Indian Tiger. The strong presence of tigers in the Kanha landscape is the key reason why this park has achieved global acclaim as a designated “Tiger Reserve.” Furthermore, the renowned Barasingha thrives here in remarkable numbers, earning it the well-deserved title of the “jewel of Kanha National Park.”
Mammals
The Royal Bengal Tiger, scientifically known as Panthera tigris, belongs to the Panthera genus and is a distinguished member of this species. Locally referred to as “Bagh,” it holds the prestigious status of National Animal in both India and Bangladesh.
The Swamp Deer belongs to the Cervidae family, which comprises hoofed, ruminant mammals. Commonly referred to as the Swamp Deer, its scientific name is Cervus duvaucelii, with the species named in honour of the French naturalist Alfred Duvaucel. Owing to its majestic antlers, which typically feature twelve tines, it is called Bara Singha in Hindi (with “Bara” meaning twelve). However, some may possess up to 20 tines. These bony structures—known as antlers—are unique to the deer family and are found exclusively on males. In Assamese, the deer is called “Dolhorina,” with “Dol” denoting marsh. It has been adopted as the official state animal by both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The hard-ground subspecies, known as the Branderi Barasingha, can also be seen here in its full grandeur, gracefully wandering through the reserve.
This species is also referred to as the Ussuri Dhole or the Indian Dhole in some texts. A genetic relative of the Canis family, it belongs to the species Cuon alpinus alpinus. Among the most prominent residents of Kanha National Park, the Indian Wild Dog is an important member of this unique canid family.
Birds
This magnificent creature of the natural world resides in Kanha National Park, a sanctuary celebrated for its captivating tranquillity. Recognised as one of the most vital highland ecosystems in central India, the Kanha Tiger Reserve is hailed as a premier destination for experiencing an extraordinary range of flora and fauna, including nearly 300 distinct bird species.
Such avian diversity is sure to captivate the interest of enthusiastic birdwatchers. The reserve’s lush tropical landscape creates an exceptional setting, transforming it into a true haven for bird lovers. In this vibrant environment, ample opportunities abound for birdwatching enthusiasts to revel in their passion.
Reptiles
Both herbivorous and carnivorous creatures can be found in Kanha National Park, as it is their natural habitat. This incredible reserve is home to a wide variety of animal species, many of which may be found in abundant numbers. It is the only habitat of the extremely uncommon hard ground Barasingha, sometimes known as “the jewel of Kanha,” and is most famous for its population of Indian Tigers.
The Indian monitor lizard, the fan-throated lizard, the Indian garden lizard, the Indian cobra, the russell’s viper, the common rat snake, the common skink, the Indian monitor, and so on and so forth.
What you will experience on this tour.
Nature Safari India, which has more than 30 years of experience in the wildlife safari industry and is an expert in tiger safari India tours, ensures that you will have an authentic and fulfilling safari experience on your next trip to India. Our tiger safari tours highlight the best of Indian wildlife along with hints of culture and Indian heritage.
These tours take place in some of the best national parks in the country for wildlife, such as Ranthambore National Park, Corbett National Park, or even Bandhavgarh National Park, and cover a variety of species and landscapes. Take a look at some of the top-rated tiger safari India excursions that we offer here.
Tour Inclusions
- Bed and breakfast accommodations are available in New Delhi and Agra.
- Accommodations include all meals and a safari in Pench, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh.
- Your Pench, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh admission and guide fees.
- Your entry fee and any tour guide fees for visiting monuments.
- There will be 6 exclusive jeep safaris offered in Pench.
- In Kanha, 5 exclusive jeep safaris will be offered.
- In Bandhavgarh, there will be 7 exclusive jeep safaris available.
- Assistance at the hotels and the airport.
- Every land transfer is done in a cool Toyota Innova or Crysta.
- Any taxes that are now applied.
Tour Exclusions
- Both domestic and international plane travel.
- Personal expenses like tips, cigarettes, alcohol, laundry, and phone calls.
- In national parks and monuments, there is a still and video camera fee.
- Travel Insurance
- Everything that isn't listed among the inclusions.
Enquire this tour
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