Kanha Tiger Reserve, located in the heart of India’s Madhya Pradesh, is celebrated for its lush sal and bamboo forests and sprawling meadows, providing a sanctuary to a diverse array of wildlife including the majestic Bengal tiger. Revered as one of the best-managed national parks in Asia, Kanha offers breathtaking landscapes and pivotal conservation efforts for numerous species.
1,949 km2
Mixed Decidious Forest with prominent Sal Vegetation
Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Barasingha, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Sambar Deer
Malabar Pied Hornbill, Peafowl, Indian Roller, Green Bee-Eater, Crested Serpent Eagle
Kanha National Park, located in the Maikal range of the Satpuras in Madhya Pradesh, is renowned as a central gem in India’s wildlife conservation efforts, especially known for its tiger reserve. Officially established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1933 after being declared a reserve forest in 1879, it was elevated to the status of a national park in 1955. Covering an expansive area of 940 sq km and further extending to 1945 sq km when including both the buffer and the core zones, the park showcases a rich and varied landscape.
This park is characterized by its rolling meadows, dense forests, and meandering streams, which create a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts. The natural beauty of Kanha has been a source of inspiration for many, including the famed author Rudyard Kipling, who drew from these surroundings for his iconic work, “The Jungle Book.” The park is a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, hosting everything from the majestic tigers to the unique Barasingha, as well as a plethora of birds, reptiles, and insects.
Kanha’s commitment to preservation is visible in its sophisticated infrastructure designed to cater to wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Among the various attractions within the park, Bammi Dadar stands out. Known also as Sunset Point, it offers stunning views and is a favored spot for visitors to capture the serene beauty of the setting sun against the park’s lush backdrop. This combination of rich biodiversity, inspiring landscapes, and visitor amenities makes Kanha National Park a world-class wildlife destination.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, located approximately 160 kilometers away. Guests can take a flight to Jabalpur and then we can organize a air-conditioned vehicle to the park, which takes around 4 hours. Alternatively, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur is another option, about 260 kilometers from the park, offering a 5-6 hour drive to Kanha.
Jabalpur Railway Station is the most convenient, with regular connections from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Jabalpur Station, we can organize an air-conditioned vehicle to cover the remaining distance to Kanha National Park. Another option is Gondia Railway Station, around 145 kilometers away, providing a shorter 3-hour drive to the park.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Kanha is the only place in the world where the hard ground barasingha, also known as the swamp deer, can be found. Once on the brink of extinction, this species has been successfully revived through dedicated conservation efforts within the reserve. The barasingha is often referred to as the "jewel of Kanha."
Kanha Tiger Reserve served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's classic novel, "The Jungle Book." The rich landscape, teeming with diverse wildlife, is reminiscent of the fictional jungle where characters like Mowgli, Baloo, and Shere Khan come to life.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Kanha Tiger Reserve is from October to June. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the seasons:
Winter (October to February): This period offers the most pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The cool and comfortable climate is ideal for safaris and wildlife viewing. The forest is lush after the monsoon, and visibility is good.
Summer (March to June): Temperatures during the summer months can range from 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F). Although it can get quite hot, this is an excellent time for spotting wildlife, especially around water sources as animals gather to drink. The chances of seeing tigers are higher during this period.
Monsoon (July to September): The park is closed during the monsoon season due to heavy rains and maintenance activities. This period helps rejuvenate the forest and provides a break for the wildlife.
For the best experience, plan your visit between October and June, with winter offering the most comfortable weather and summer providing higher chances of wildlife sightings.
Kanha Tiger Reserve is divided into four main zones, each accessible through specific gates. The main zones and their respective gates are:
1. Kisli Zone:
Kisli Gate: One of the main entry points, offering a high probability of wildlife sightings, including tigers. This zone is known for its beautiful landscapes and dense forests.
2.Mukki Zone:
Mukki Gate: Another prominent entry point, popular for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. This zone provides excellent opportunities for spotting various wildlife species.
3. Kanhar Zone:
Kanhar Gate: Known for its tranquil settings and diverse flora and fauna. This zone offers a unique safari experience with a good chance of encountering wildlife.
4. Sarhi Zone:
Sarhi Gate: This gate provides access to a less frequented part of the reserve, offering a peaceful safari experience with good opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Each zone in Kanha Tiger Reserve offers a distinct experience, and it is advisable to book safaris in advance to ensure access to your preferred zone and gate.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Kanha Tiger Reserve, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation.
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust
Shop our exclusive Into The Wild dust buffs crafted from breathable bamboo fibre → Shop Now
Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
| Kanha Tiger Reserve Safari Timings | ||
| Time Period | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| October | 6:00am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 6:00pm |
| November | 6:15am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 5:45pm |
| December | 6:30am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 5:30pm |
| January | 6:45am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 5:45pm |
| February | 6:30am to 11:00am | 3:00 pm to 6:15pm |
| March | 6:15am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 6:30pm |
| April | 5:45am to 11:00am | 4:00pm to 6:45pm |
| May | 5:30am to 11:00am | 4:00pm to 7:00pm |
| June | 5:30am to 11:00am | 4:00pm to 7:00pm |
| July | ||
| August | ||
| September | ||
Always try to reach the gate, along with the safari permits and valid IDs, at least 30 minutes before the gate opening.
The park management holds the right to change the safari timings as per their discretion, hence it’s advisable to always check the timing closer to your travel dates.
Kanha Tiger Reserve is home to several well-known tigers that have become famous due to their distinctive features and frequent sightings. Some of the most famous tigers of Kanha Tiger Reserve include:
Munna: Known for the unique “CAT” markings on his forehead, Munna was one of the most iconic tigers of Kanha and a favorite among visitors and photographers.
Choti Mada: Recognized for her strength and dominance, Choti Mada has been a prominent tigress in the reserve, successfully raising several litters.
Link 7: This male tiger, named after his territory in the Link 7 region, is famous for his large size and majestic appearance.
Naina: A charismatic tigress often seen with her cubs, Naina has contributed significantly to the tiger population in Kanha.
Kingfisher: Named after the area he frequently patrols, Kingfisher is another notable male tiger known for his impressive size and strength.
These tigers have not only captured the attention of wildlife enthusiasts but have also played a crucial role in the conservation and popularity of Kanha Tiger Reserve.
As of the latest estimates, Kanha Tiger Reserve is home to approximately 125-130 tigers. This number reflects the reserve’s ongoing conservation efforts and its status as one of India’s key tiger habitats.
The closest major city to Kanha Tiger Reserve is Jabalpur, located approximately 165 kilometers (about 103 miles) away. Jabalpur serves as a convenient gateway for visitors to Kanha, offering good connectivity by road and rail. The drive from Jabalpur to Kanha Tiger Reserve typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, making it an accessible starting point for your wildlife adventure.
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