Kanha National Park

Declared a national park in 1955, Kanha has been a model of conservation in India and was one of the inspirations for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is famous for its successful efforts in saving the barasingha (swamp deer) from extinction, and it remains one of the best places in the world to spot this rare species in the wild.

However, Kanha’s biggest attraction is the Royal Bengal Tiger. With a healthy tiger population, visitors have a good chance of spotting one of these majestic big cats during a jeep safari. Other commonly sighted animals include leopards, wild dogs (dhole), Indian gaur, sloth bears, jackals, and various species of deer such as spotted deer, sambar, and barking deer.

Kanha is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded here, including crested serpent eagles, Indian rollers, paradise flycatchers, and various hornbills. The blend of open grasslands, water bodies, and forested areas makes the park ideal for both resident and migratory birds.

The terrain of Kanha is a blend of dense sal and bamboo forests, interspersed with grassy meadows and winding streams. The climate and soil support a diverse range of plant life, and the landscapes change dramatically with the seasons—lush and green during the monsoon, golden and dry during the summer, and cool and misty in the winter.

The Bamni Dadar, also known as the Sunset Point, offers panoramic views of the park’s vast expanse and is a favorite spot for watching wildlife at dusk.

Kanha offers both morning and evening jeep safaris, guided by trained naturalists who help you understand the park's rich biodiversity. The safaris are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

The park is divided into four core zones: Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, and Sarhi. Each zone has its own unique terrain and set of animal territories, so every safari offers a different experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season from October to June.

Kanha National Park is open to visitors from October to June, and the park remains closed during the monsoon (July to September). The cooler months between November and February are ideal for comfortable safaris, while March to June offers better chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife as animals gather near water sources.

Let me know if you’d like a comparison chart or help choosing the best zone based on your travel dates!

Kanha National Park is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible from various parts of India. The park is located in Madhya Pradesh and can be reached via several entry points, with Kisli and Mukki gates being the most popular.

The nearest airports to Kanha National Park are:

• Jabalpur Airport (Dumna Airport) – Approx. 160 km (3.5–4 hours drive)
• Raipur Airport – Approx. 250 km (5–6 hours drive)
• Nagpur Airport – Approx. 300 km (6–7 hours drive)

These airports are well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Taxis and private transfers are available from the airport to the park.

The nearest railway stations are:

• Jabalpur Railway Station – Approx. 165 km
• Gondia Railway Station – Approx. 145 km
• Nagpur Railway Station – Approx. 300 km

Jabalpur and Gondia are the most convenient options, with regular trains from major cities. From the station, taxis and buses are available to reach Kanha.

Kanha is well-connected by road and can be accessed via private vehicle, taxi, or bus. The roads are scenic and mostly in good condition.

• Jabalpur to Kanha – 160 km (via Mandla)
• Raipur to Kanha – 250 km (via Kawardha)
• Nagpur to Kanha – 300 km (via Seoni and Balaghat)
• Khajuraho to Kanha – 450 km