Kanha Tiger Reserve — Attraction in Madhya Pradesh

Worth every minute All I can say is, wow - what a perfect trip. This place is the place to be, to see animals, in their natural habitats away from cages. It’s a Pure JUNGLE. Did a road trip, up from Raipur to Kanha, and thought it'd be cool to check this place out. To be honest, I wasn't sure, if it was going to be hokey, as I am a adult, with no kids with me. I did a lot of research before deciding to go with wildlife safari and finally I was extremely happy with my decision. From the first time, I had been connecting with Wildlife safari, the booking procedure was smooth. Preferable, is to book online, and for Guide @ ₹ 360/- or ₹ 500/- & Gypsy @ ₹ 2500/-, you have to pay, at Zone Gate. You can ride in one of their "Safari Gypsy with a Forest Guide", provided at Zone Gate by MP Tourism Designated Employees.

It’s my personal advice, book always six tickets, means whole gypsy. please try to avoid booking a single seat, because you have to reconcile with other five persons, which is a difficult task, and If you meet two couples, then it’s very problematic, as at Snacks time, they will definitely waste about an hour, to visit Museum and Cafeteria and washroom etc. As I and two boys faced, with the single couple, during this journey, and we got disturbed. It was very ridiculous, they had spoiled our one Precious hour, in all rubbish kind refreshing themself.. I do not understand, why they came here, to see the forest safari or to celebrate local picnic ceremonies. They have to keep in mind that others are also there in the same vehicle. But both of them are seriously ridicules. Leave It Now, Immediately upon entering the safari from Khatia Gate, I was greeted by a bunch of Reindeer (Baarahasingha), Spotted Deer and Sambar deer. As we continued to drive through, we were able to see things that were hiding out in the shade. I couldn't believe how close we were to all the animals. The animals are fairly close to the Gypsy, so you can get some great pictures. The guides provided good history on the animals as well as info on their natural habitats, eating patterns and basically told about the signs given by herbivores animal to avoid carnivores animals. The drive, thru the park, was magnificent - Tigers, bears, monkeys, Langur's, antelope, bison, elephants and tons of birds. We saw lots of deer (and similar family animals). Finally, we saw a Male Tiger at 09 No., but he would not came out from shrubs. So many animals to see, this Jungle is best! Here the animals look healthy and calm and able to roam freely. The 2 Persons Driver & Guide (can spot any animal, from a mile away) were incredibly knowledgeable and kept the experience very safe. We never once felt like we were in any kind of danger. Both were may be the contractual employees of MP Tourism, but very affectionate. Both are true professionals & cares about the animals. The day was very hot, but the safari was awesome, MP Tourism have also arrange breakfast and Tea Facilities at their Canteen, if you're hungry, in between the Jungle Safari. If you have taken the food plan with your Hotel, the Hotel will arrange food in that Canteen Area. Avoid the bluffing hotel to show lions & Night Safari, as the entire safari is controlled by MP tourism, hotels/resorts will charge unnecessary amount, which is not worth. Also, visit there Souvenir Shop, at their Entry Gate and Near Canteen Area, for Some Wildlife Antique Shopping. It’s a great place for kids to learn about animals natural habitats etc. This trip far exceeded my expectations, especially since this was my very first time going with a tour. Overall, if you are looking for a safari, look no further. I would definitely be back again in the near future. 100% recommended.. Totally worth it!

Wishing all Readers a Happy Holiday and...

Kanha Tiger Reserve – A Jewel of Indian Wildlife Conservation

Located in the heart of India in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of the most celebrated and well-maintained wildlife sanctuaries in the country. Spread across the Mandla and Balaghat districts, it was originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1933 and was later upgraded to a national park in 1955. In 1973, Kanha was included among the first nine reserves under Project Tiger, making it a pioneer in India’s tiger conservation efforts.

Tourism Features of Kanha Tiger Reserve

Rich Biodiversity

Kanha is famous for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, but it is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife species. Tourists can spot: • Barasingha (swamp deer) – the state animal of Madhya Pradesh, which was rescued from the brink of extinction in Kanha • Leopards, Indian wild dogs (dholes), sloth bears, and gaurs (Indian bison) • Over 300 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers

Scenic Landscapes

The reserve features a stunning mix of sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows, and winding streams. The lush vegetation and undulating terrain create an unforgettable visual experience for visitors.

Safari Experience

Tourism in Kanha is centered around jeep safaris, which are conducted by trained guides and forest officials. These safaris operate in early morning and afternoon slots and offer a thrilling opportunity to witness wild animals in their natural habitat.

There are four major zones for tourism: • Kanha Zone (core) • Mukki Zone • Sarhi Zone • Kisli Zone

Each has its unique biodiversity and scenic appeal.

Eco-Tourism and Conservation Education

Kanha is considered a model reserve in terms of conservation and eco-tourism. The Kanha Museum, interpretation centers, and local tribal villages offer educational insight into wildlife preservation and the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.

Accommodation and Hospitality

A wide range of eco-friendly lodges, forest rest houses, and luxury resorts are available near the buffer zones. These cater to both budget travelers and high-end tourists, ensuring comfort while promoting sustainability.

Best Time to Visit

The reserve is open from October to June, with the best wildlife sightings occurring in the summer months (March to June) when animals gather around water sources. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to September).

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Unique Features • Inspiration for “The Jungle Book”: Kanha is often associated with Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, and though it was not specifically named, the landscape bears striking resemblance to the fictional Seoni jungle. • Barasingha Conservation Success: Kanha’s efforts in reviving the endangered hardground barasingha population is considered a landmark in wildlife...

Enjoyed the jungle safari at Kanha National Park (Mukki gate) We visited Kanha National Park and stayed at a resort on Mukki side of the jungle. Mukki is about 190 kms (3.5 to 4 hours) from Jabalpur and 190 kms (5 to 6 hours) from Raipur and 240 kms (5 to 6 hours) from Nagpur The morning safari starts at 5.30 am and ends at 11.30 am (duration of almost 5 hours) The afternoon safari starts at 4 pm and ends at 6.45 pm (duration of 2hours and 45 minutes only). The safari charges comprise of the following elements Online booking charges + Gypsy charges + Guide charges. The charges for weekend (SAT & SUN) are Rs 3050+3000+500 = Rs 6550/- for Indian tourists. The charges for a weekday (MON to FRI) are Rs 2400+3000+500 = Rs 5900/-. The guide charges can be Rs 600/- if a Senior Guide accompanies you for the safari. The charges for the morning safari and afternoon safari are the same even though the duration of the afternoon safari is shorter. Kanha National Park (KNP) is divided into 4 zones i.e. Kanha / Mukki / Kisli / Sarhi. One can book for entry from Mukki gate and opt (at time of online booking) for safari in Mukki zone or Kanha zone or Kisli zone. Please note that one has to travel around 25 kms from Mukki gate through the forest to reach the Kanha zone. SO IF YOU ARE STAYING IN MUKKI, IT IS RECOMMENDED TO BOOK MOST OF YOUR SAFARIS IN MUKKI ZONE. Please book your hotel for stay closer to the gate from which majority of your safaris are booked. Currently the tigers getting sighted in Mukki Zone are DB3 (male tiger / DJ (female tigress Dhawa Jhandi / MV 3 (female tigress with 2 month old cubs) / Choti Mada (with 4 month old cubs) and a couple of other tigers In Kanha zone Tigress Neelam (with sub adult cubs) / male tiger Bajrang / Tigress Naina (with cubs) and a couple of other tigers are getting sighted We managed to see the Tigress DJ (Dhawa Jhandi) and male tiger DB3. The sightings of tigers are lesser as compared to other National Parks in Central India. Kanha National Park is a beautiful forest. Do enjoy the forest and the other inhabitants like the Barasingha / Jackals / Dholes / Indian Gaur / Vultures / Orioles / Serpent Eagles etc Kanha NP is much more beautiful to visit during the winter months of Nov to Feb. The forest is dense and greener during this period. Some of gthe best sightings of the tiger happens during this period when the tiger can be seen walking on the road / close to the road (unlike the summers where the tigers are often seen resting near the water hole or cooling itself in the...