Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park – The Land of the Royal Bengal Tiger
About Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park also known as Kanha-Kisli National Park is one of the famous tiger reserves of India and the largest national park located in the magical land of Madhya Pradesh. Kanha National Park was created on 1 June 1955 and was designated as a tiger reserve in the year of 1973. Today, it sprawls over an area of 940 square kilometers. It is one of the most popular Tiger reserves in India which attracts flocks of wildlife enthusiasts every year.The Kanha National Park is reckoned as the perfect habitat for large amounts of herbivores and carnivore animals. Tourists can discover the abundant varieties of wildlife. It is the only location in India where the most abundant variety of Barasingha can be found and so does to call them the “Jewel of Kanha”. This National Park has thick vegetation kinds of Sal trees Bamboo forests and grasslands. The moderate and favorable climate and varied topography support the growth of a rich and varied flora in the Park. Kanha trees have more than 70 species of trees. This large, evergreen, gregarious tree is found in North India, up to an elevation of 914 meters. The timber is largely used for railway sleepers and more than 500 species of birds.
- Kanha Zone – The most popular core zone, famous for regular tiger sightings and beautiful meadows like Saunf Meadow and Shravan Tal.
- Mukki Zone – Known for its dense forest, picturesque landscapes, and frequent sightings of tigers and leopards.
- Kisli Zone – Offers diverse wildlife and scenic drives through mixed forests and grasslands.
- Sarhi Zone – A quieter, less crowded zone ideal for those seeking a peaceful and immersive jungle experience.
Flora and Fauna of Kanha National Park
Kanha’s ecosystem is a classic example of India’s tropical moist deciduous forest type, with lush sal forests, dense bamboo groves, and extensive grasslands known locally as meadows.
Major Flora:
Sal, Bamboo, Tendu, Mahua, Bija, and Saja trees dominate the park’s vegetation, providing a green canopy throughout most of the year. The meadows, formed by old village clearings, are essential grazing grounds for herbivores.
Major Fauna:
Kanha is home to an incredible variety of wildlife species:
Right from Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Indian Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Indian Wold, Golden Jackal, Bengal Fox, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Common Palm Civer (Toddy Cat), Indian Gaur, Barasingha (Hard-Ground Swamp Deer), Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, Mouse Deer, Indian Muntjac, Four Horned Antelope, Bluebull, Wild Boar, Indian Hare, Indian Porcupine, Common Longoor, Rhesus Macaque, Indian Pangolin, Small Grey Mansooge, Ruddy Mongoose & Over 300 bird species including The Malabar Pied Hornbill, White Rumped Shama, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Creasted Serpent Eagle, Creasted Hawk Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Orioles etc make Kanha a paradise for birdwatchers.
Location – Where Kanha National Park is Situated
Kanha National Park is located in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, in Central India. It lies about 160 km southeast of Jabalpur and is well connected by road and rail to major cities like Nagpur, Raipur, and Jabalpur.
How to Reach Kanha National Park
Nearest Airports:
Jabalpur Airport (JLR): Approx. 160 km (4–4.5 hours drive)
Raipur Airport (RPR): Approx. 250 km (5–6 hours drive)
Nagpur Airport (NAG): Approx. 270 km (6 hours drive)
Nearest Railway Stations:
Gondia Junction: Approx. 145 km
Jabalpur Railway Station: Approx. 160 km
Nagpur Railway Station: Approx. 270 km
Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park
Kanha remains open for tourists from October to June every year.
October to February: The park is lush and green after the monsoon — best for birdwatching and photography.
March to June: Warmer and drier months, ideal for tiger sightings as animals frequent water sources.
July to September: The park remains closed due to the monsoon season and breeding period of animals.
Best Lodges and Resorts to stay in Kanha National Park
Kanha offers a range of accommodations — from luxury safari lodges to budget-friendly stays, each offering comfort amidst the wilderness:
Taj Safari’s Banjaar Tola – A luxury riverside tented camp by Taj Hotels, combining elegance with eco-sensitivity.
Kanha Earth Lodge – Sustainable and serene, set in 16 acres of natural forest away from tourist crowds.
Singinawa Jungle Lodge – Eco-luxury stay featuring a natural history museum and guided nature trails.
Tuli Tiger Resort – Popular mid-range resort offering comfort and excellent hospitality near the Kisli gate.
Kipling Camp – One of Kanha’s oldest and most authentic lodges, known for its conservation focus and peaceful setting.
