Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park, located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most well-maintained and scenic wildlife sanctuaries. Known for its significant population of Bengal tigers, barasingha (swamp deer), and lush sal and bamboo forests, Kanha inspired Rudyard Kipling’s legendary novel The Jungle Book. The park spans over 940 sq km and is part of the Kanha Tiger Reserve.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

  • October to June: Park remains open
  • November to February: Best time due to pleasant weather
  • March to June: Excellent for spotting tigers and other wildlife
  • July to mid-October: Park remains closed due to monsoon season

HOW TO REACH KANHA NATIONAL PARK

By Air
  • Nearest Airport: Jabalpur Airport (160 km)
  • Other Options: Raipur Airport (250 km) and Nagpur Airport (270 km)
  • Taxis and buses are available from these airports to Kanha.
 
By Train
  • Nearest Railway Stations: Gondia Junction (145 km), Jabalpur (160 km), and Bilaspur (250 km)
  • Taxis and local buses are available from the stations to reach the park.
 
By Road
  • Kanha is well connected by road to major cities:
    • Jabalpur to Kanha: 160 km (4–5 hours)
    • Nagpur to Kanha: 270 km (6 hours)
    • Raipur to Kanha: 250 km (5–6 hours)
  • State-run and private buses, as well as taxis, are available.

SAFARI DETAILS

Kanha offers jeep safaris and canter safaris in core zones: Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, and Sarhi.

Safari Timings
  • Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Evening Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (timings vary by season)
 
Safari Prices (Approximate)
  • Jeep Safari (Indian Nationals): INR 6,500 – INR 7,500 per jeep (6 people max)
  • Jeep Safari (Foreign Nationals): INR 9,000 – INR 10,000 per jeep
  • Canter Safari: INR 1,200 – INR 1,800 per person
  • Single Seat in Jeep (Sharing): INR 1,200 – INR 2,000
 
Zones
  • Core Zones: Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, Sarhi
  • Buffer Zones: Khatia, Sijhora, Phen Wildlife Sanctuary (adjacent)

HOW TO BOOK SAFARI

  • Online Booking: Visit forest.mponline.gov.in
  • Offline Booking: Limited slots available at entry gates
  • Documents Required: Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
  • Guides: Mandatory and assigned by the forest department

ACCOMMODATION AT KANHA NATIONAL PARK

Forest Rest Houses
  • Kanha Forest Rest House (Located near Kisli Gate)
  • Mukki Forest Rest House (Close to Mukki Gate)
  • Booking: Only through the MP Forest Department website or by contacting local forest offices
 
Luxury Resorts
  • Banjaar Tola (by Taj Safaris)
  • Singinawa Jungle Lodge
  • Kanha Earth Lodge
 
Mid-range & Budget Hotels
  • MPT Safari Lodge (Kisli)
  • Kipling Camp
  • Soulacia Hotel & Resort

Motel Chandan (budget-friendly)

ENTRY FEES

  • Indian Nationals: INR 250 – 400 per person (varies by zone and season)
  • Foreign Nationals: INR 1,000 – 1,500 per person
  • Vehicle Entry: INR 1,500 – INR 2,000 per vehicle
  • Guide Fee: INR 500 – INR 750
  • Camera Fee: Applicable for professional equipment

Other Important Information

Rules & Guidelines

  • Do not carry plastic or make noise inside the park
  • Always obey the instructions of your guide and forest authorities
  • Do not feed animals or get off the vehicle
  • Smoking and drinking alcohol are prohibited. 
  •  
  • Nearby Attractions
  • Kanha Museum: A nature interpretation center at Kisli Gate
  • Bamni Dadar (Sunset Point): Offers panoramic views of the park
  • Phen Wildlife Sanctuary: Ideal for bird watchers and less crowded wildlife experiences
  • Local Tribal Villages: Cultural tours can be arranged by local operators

Kanha National Park is one of the finest wildlife destinations in India, offering an ideal mix of scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, and exciting jungle safaris. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a nature lover, Kanha promises an unforgettable experience.

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