Kanha National Park
India
Madhya Pradesh
Overview
Kanha National Park, one of India's largest national parks, is the jewel of Madhya Pradesh's wildlife conservation efforts. This magnificent reserve is famously known as the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's timeless classic "The Jungle Book." Spanning over 940 square kilometers, Kanha is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the rare hard-ground barasingha (swamp deer), leopards, wild dogs, and over 300 species of birds. The park's lush sal and bamboo forests, rolling meadows called maidans, and pristine streams create a quintessential jungle atmosphere that captivates every visitor.
Best Time to Visit
October to June. Peak season is February to April when tigers are most visible near water sources. The park closes during monsoons (July-September).
Suggested Itineraries
One Day Kanha Experience
Early morning jeep safari through the iconic Kanha meadow and sal forests. High chances of spotting tigers, barasingha herds, and leopards in morning light
Return to resort for hot breakfast. Rest during midday heat when wildlife is inactive. Optional visit to Kanha Museum
Explore Mukki zone's dense forests and streams. Spot wild dogs, sloth bears, and if lucky, tigers coming to water holes as temperature rises
Return to lodge for sunset views, dinner featuring local Madhya Pradesh cuisine, and sharing safari stories around a bonfire
Two Days in Kanha
Day 1
Explore the famous Kanha meadow at sunrise. Watch for barasingha herds grazing and tigers on morning patrol. Visit Bamni Dadar for panoramic views
Visit the museum to learn about park's history, successful barasingha conservation, and Kipling's connection to Kanha
Safari through Kisli zone's mixed forests. Good chances of spotting leopards, gaur (Indian bison), and diverse birdlife including hornbills
Traditional Gond tribal dance performance at resort. Dinner with local specialties like Bhutte ka Kees and Dal Bafla
Day 2
Early safari in less-crowded Mukki zone. Dense forests perfect for wild dog packs, sloth bears, and elusive tigers near Shravan Tal
Guided walk through nearby Gond tribal village. Interact with locals, learn about forest dependence, and enjoy authentic village lunch
Explore Sarhi zone with experienced naturalist. Track tigers by pugmarks, alarm calls. Best zone for photography with open landscapes
If time permits, quick stop at sunset point for breathtaking views over Kanha's jungles. Reflect on your Jungle Book experience
Must See & Do
Local Cuisine to Try
Popular Dishes
🥗Vegetarian Options
🌿Vegan Options
👶Kid-Friendly Options
Travel Tips
- 💡Book safaris 120 days in advance during peak season - slots fill quickly
- 💡Stay near Khatia or Mukki gates for easy safari access
- 💡Kanha zone is most popular; Mukki, Kisli, and Sarhi zones offer equally good sightings with fewer tourists
- 💡Carry binoculars - wildlife can be at considerable distance in open meadows
- 💡Morning safaris (6 AM) are colder - carry warm layers even in summer
- 💡Afternoon safaris (3 PM) offer better tiger sightings in summer near water sources
- 💡Hire experienced naturalists - they know animal movements and increase sighting chances dramatically
- 💡No plastic allowed inside park - carry reusable water bottles
- 💡Maintain absolute silence during safaris - noise scares away wildlife
- 💡Cameras with good zoom lenses recommended - 200mm or higher for quality shots
- 💡Stay multiple days - 3-4 safaris increase chances of tiger sightings to 70-80%
- 💡Visit Kanha Museum before first safari to understand ecosystem better
- 💡Book elephant-back safaris separately for close encounters with jungle life
Getting There
Closest Airport
Jabalpur Airport
Code: JLR
160 km from Kanha (approx. 3.5 hours by road)
Public Transport
Multiple transport options available from nearby cities
- •From Jabalpur Airport: Hire a taxi to Kanha (3.5 hours)
- •Jabalpur Railway Station is well connected to major cities
- •Buses available from Jabalpur to Mandla (90 km from Kanha)
- •From Nagpur Airport (270 km): Alternative entry point, 5-6 hours drive
By Car
From Jabalpur: Take NH44 towards Mandla, then state highway to Khatia/Mukki gates. From Nagpur: Take NH44 via Balaghat to reach park gates.
Free parking available at Khatia and Mukki gates, resort parking included
You May Also Like
Explore more amazing destinations
