Kanha National Park Tourist Guide 2016

Kanha Safari Guide 2016 for Mukki & Kisli Gates

The most visited and most iconic virgin jungles in Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Kanha is magical, mesmerising, mystical & far bigger as well as diverse than Pench and Bandhavgarh, it is not  only large but also beautiful, living upto the kipling tales and Sherkhan of Mougli . Kanha is located approx 165 kms from Jabalpur.

If you drove from Jabalpur to Kanha, the scenic journey starts well before Mandla ( 60 kms before Kanha), On both sides you see yellow bloom forests of Sagaun & Sal trees, Countless of Indian Harmless Langurs. 

Kanha National Park Kisli-Khatia Gate - Resorts, Safari & Rates

Kanha National Park - Suggested Package Itinarary for Safari

Day 01 : Arrive Kanha & Evening Village Tour ( Baiga/Gond) with Mahua Wine Sampling

Upon arrival at Kanha, check into the wildlife resort. Evening enjoy the surrounding nature. Evening Bicycle tour to the neighbouring village of Baiga or Gonds to experience their rich rural life, coupled with tradition, art & culture. Tasting of the Mahua Wine prepared by villagers, Home visit followed by evening tea and snacks by the river side ( Banjar river).

In the evening, Wildlife Documentary show on kanha and its Tigers as well as flora, Fauna. Also discussion on sustainable tourism in Kanha. Spend time in the library.

Dinner and overnight stay at wildlife resort.

Day 02 : Kanha National Park - Morning Gypsy Safari ( Sunrise till 11:30 AM) + Afternoon Safari ( 2:30 PM till sunset)

Your will get awake with an early morning wake call at 4:30 AM. Time to leave for the Gypsy Safari by 5:30 AM with a target to reach the gates by 6:00 AM. You will be served with a cup of tea before departure for your first jungle safari to the Kanha national park. The morning safari has a unique charm and ensures goof sitings of animals as well as fresh jungle life flora and fauna. Breakfast will be served at 9:00 AM in the Jungle Camp, followed by another round of tour till 11:00 AM. After morning safari return to the resort for rest and Lunch..

After lunch we will again depart on Afternoon Gypsy Safari to Kanha National Park for wildlife viewing. Afternoon safari starts from the gate at 03:00 PM and continues till sunset. Afternoon safari has a distinct charm as most of the animals come to water holes for water, Afternoon safari can make up if you lost ant chances in morning safari.

During both safari's Forest Guide cum spotter also joins from the entru gate.

Return to the resort by late evening.

In the evening, Wildlife Documentary show on kanha and its Tigers as well as flora, Fauna. Also discussion on sustainable tourism in Kanha. Spend time in the library.

Day 03 : Kanha National Park ( Morning & Evening Safari) continue..

Morning depart on a Gypsy to Kanha national park for wildlife viewing. Later return to the resort for Lunch . After Lunch, proceed on the afternoon safari

Reach hotel late evening.

In the evening, Wildlife Documentary show on kanha and its Tigers as well as flora, Fauna. Also discussion on sustainable tourism in Kanha. Spend time in the library.

Day 04 : Kanha National Park - Check out

After breakfast check out for onward destination.

Best Resorts in kanha National Park - Kisli - Khatia Gate

• Kanha Earth Lodge - Holiday Travel Ranked - 5/5 - Excellent ( Luxury)
• Soulacia Hotel and Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4.5/5 - Excellent
• Koushalya Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4/5 - Very Good
• Mogly Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 3/5 - Better
• Kanha Village Eco Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 3.5/5 - Good

Best Resorts in Kanha National Park - MUKKI Gate

• Grand Tiger Resort, Kanha - Holiday Travel Ranked -3.5/5 - Good
• Seven Tiger Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4/5 - Better Ones ( Middle Range)
• Bagh Villas - Holiday Travel Ranked - 5/5 - Excellent
• Chitwan Lodge, Kanha - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4.5/5 - Excellent ( Luxury)

Guide to Drive to Kanha National Park

Drive From Jabalpur to Kanha National Park

Kanha national park tour is usually undertaken from Nagpur ( 270 kms) or Raipur ( 160 kms). Nagpur route is through Bhandara Road, Tumsar, Gondia, Balaghat, Baihar & Mukki.

Drive from Raipur to Kanha National Park

Raipur route includes Dhamda, Gandai, Narmada, Salewara, Salaitekri, Birsa, Malanjkhand, Mohgaon, Godma, Bhimlat.

Drive From Jabalpur to Kanha

Kanha national park tour can be undertaken from Jabalpur, if you want to visit  Bhedaghat Dhunadhar waterfall & Marble Rocks and boating in Narmada to see stunning marble rocks. Kanha is approximatly 150 kms from Jabalpur. The route is very scenic and enroute you can visit Barghee dam, which is a very big dam on river Narmada, Actually river Narmada is always on your parallel.

First resting point is Mandla, which has a MP tourism Motel, which has restaurant and Bar facilities with Kids play areas, if you are travelling with kids, it is recommended to stop here to have refreshments. It is neat & Clean.

From Mandla, Kanha is approx 50 kms, and jungle just gets denser, in between you see patches of villages and fields and also distant hills, the whole drive is very scenic.

To reach Kanha Khatia/Kisli gate, you need to drive approx 9 kms and there is a barrier for toll for allowing entry inside park, Most of the resorts are located inside the buffer zone. There are many hutments of Gond Tribes in the buffer area.

Why Choose Khatia -Kisli Gate - Kanha National Park

1. Kisli Khatia gate welcomes you to the domain of Munna & Kankata - the iconic tigers of the region.

2. Core Zone Kanha  is near by & in half an hour you can reach the Kanha Core zone.

Kanha Kisli Khatia Gate - Recommended Resorts to Stay

There are many good resorts, when you enter from the Khatia/Kisli gate, However recommended and Best one is Kanha Earth Lodge located at about 8 Kms from the Khatia - Kisli Gate.

Location Advantage - Kanha Earth Lodge

1. Resort's Location is perfect, it is in the Buffer zone near to Gond's Village ( Tribals of Madhya Pradesh). 

2. There are no other resorts in the vicinity, means no noise, no lights, no traffic near to Resort. You have a real jungle feelings once you are inside the resort.
 

3. Resort is located near to a river, which you can reach on the bicycle tour on you own & resort guys will follow you, It is an excellent place to rejuvinate and enjoy the evening as well as watch the sunset followed by tea.
 

4. As resort is located near the Tribal Village, Resort arranges to visit the Homes of Gond Tribe locals, You will enjoy their hospitality, as well as explore the similicity of the tribal life.
 

5. Most of the employees of the resorts are from the Buffer Zone ( Gonds) they have wealth of knowledge, interact with them to get full know-how of the Jungle.

Kanha Earth Lodge - Hospitality Extended - Administration & Staff

1. Guests get the Royal welcome, once they arrive for checkin or reach after the safari..One definite advantage of kanha Earth lodge is its dedicated staff and Management.

2. Mr. Ashwani Kumar ( Manager - Kanha Earth Lodge) ensures perfect hospitality with minutest details. He is master of all strokes and extends hospitality in surprisingly minutest details.
 

3. Mr. Ashwani even drives the guests himself to Jungle Safari, A great initiative and humble gesture for guests.
 

4. Mr. Ashwani is a living wikipedia and has great knowledge of Kanha National Park, Its water bodies, Reading pug marks, Details of the wild life, which comes rewarding and as a bonus for the tourists.
 

5. Mr. Ashwani's sole ambition is to help customers to spot Tigers and goes out of the way to ensure the same.
 

6. In fact all staff of Kanha Earth Lodge are so loving and helpful that you and your family will miss to come here again and again.
 

7. Many staff of resort belong to Gond Community and live nearby, they are living dictionary for the area knowledge.

8. One of the prime reason for family stay while travelling  is safety, food and exclusive hospitality, Hence choice of resort is critical. Kanha-Earth-Lodge is the VIP & most exclusive resort which will help you to enjoy the Kanha to 100% mark.

9. Management ( Mr. Ashwani) & team knows Kanha at the drop of hat & Mr. Ashwani takes personal care for all jeep safaris and tiger spottings.

10. Other Features of the Kanha Earth Lodge 
a. Excellent Food
b. Excellent Hospitality
c. Royal Treatment
d. Neat and Clean
e. Great Location
f. Located in direct Buffer Zone near Gond Village Narna and near to the river Banjar.

Kanha Earth Lodge - Facilities - Rooms - Advantage - 

1. Kanha Earth Lodge Rooms offer Luxury yet Eco Centric. The rooms are airconditioned to beat the heat of central India, have ample space, these are made of Sal wood.
 

2. Bathrooms are also eco centric, made of wood, and quality material.
 

3. The cherry on the cake is the sit-out-area or Balcony which overlooks think undergrowth and is a perfect setting for little party..
 

4. Very Nice dinining settings in the dining area, there are surprise dinners offered at various parts of the property at various vantage points.
 

5. You feel absolutly at home, Safety, Care with personal touch is guaranteed.
 

6. Staff is trained to handle kids, so for family with kids, it is a great place to visit and relax.

Food at Kanha Earth Lodge

1. Kanha Earth Lodge specialise in excellent food, The menu is awsome ranging from never heard of delicacies like Sun dried Cauliflower, Roasted Potatos with fillings, etc
 

2. Mr. Ashwani & Mr. Negi at Kanha Earth Lodge ensures that even kids of 4 to 5 years enjoy the meals and does this task to perfection.
 

3. The food prepared at Kanha earth Lodge is gentle on stomach and less spicy but enfused with local Herbs.
 

4. All vegetables offered are organic and spices are authentic.
 

5. Writer requested khas khas based gravy as he had not tasted it, resort went out of the way to offer Potato Posta, the delicate cuisine..
 

6. Writer requested chocolate milk for kids, a rarity, which was also fulfilled immediatly..
 

7. Resort uses only reverse osmosis triple purified water & guests can fill the same at will ( No extra charge for mineral water bottles) instead guests are given statinless steel bottles

Things to do Kanha National Park - Khatia/Kisli Gate

Spotting Tiger in Kanha - Khatia-Kisli Gate - Kanha Zone..

• While in Kanha, There is no point in staying in hotel, All you need to do is Jungle Safari, 2 times a day. There are two Safaries in Kanha - Morning Safari starts at sunrise and concludes at 11:30 AM, followed by afternoon safari which starts at 2:30Pm and concludes at 5:30 PM. Every Safari trip brings out new discovery, vistas, Gandeur of Kanha. Both safari's are must to be done.

• Morning Safari starts at 6:00 AM, but you need to get up early and leave by 5:30 AM with packed lunch. It can be quite cold even in summer, however blankets are provided by the resort staff. 

• Morning Safari transports you to kanha core zone by 6:45 or 07:00 AM. Jungle is just fresh after the drama of the night. The advantage is easily identifiable pub marks which are undisturbed in the morning. More over in summer, All animals want to utilize the morning fresh weather before the harsh sun and tend to be out to graze. You will witness kanha famous swamp deer, Spotted deer, Langurs, Gaur, Peacocks, Jackals etc. Tiger spotting is a bonus reward, which can happen any time.

• Usually Jeeps are driven by the resort staff & one forest staff also joins the Jeep. Jeep can accomodate max 6 visitors & there are two front facing seats.

• Driver and Forst Guide work in close harmony with each other, listening to calls of spotted deer, Jungle Cock, Most importantly Langurs, who make distinct distress calls on seeing a tiger, By following these calls, Tiger spotting is sometimes possible, other visible clues to tiger spotting is pug marks, feedback from rangers, and local knowledge of the terrain. 

• It is seen in Kanha National Park that Guide and Driver of the Gypsy go out of the way in helping spotting a tiger, it is a good initiative to boost tourism in Kanha Zone.

• It should be noted that it is guaranteed to see Tiger every time you go on safari, we have seen sometimes you need to do 6-7 safaris, then you see the king of the jungle..

• Even if you do not see the Tiger, The very feel and pulse of the Kanha terrain is enough to give you enough thrill each time. so do not get emotional if you do not see a tiger each time.

• Costs of full family jeep booking in Kanha zone is approx Rs 6000/- , and photo I card is a must to book the tickets online.

Spotting Tiger in Kanha - Khatia-Kisli Gate -

There are many good reasons that you will spot Tiger in Khatia- Kisli Gate, This area has approx 3-4 female tigers who have cubs at least 4 (As of latest April 2016), as welll as many iconic tigers such as Munna and Kankata. There are good chances for seeing tiger.

Kanha National Park - Kisli-Khatia Gate - Other Things to do

1. There are many good resorts, when you enter from the Khatia/Kisli gate, The prominent ones are Kanha Earth Lodge, Tuli Tiger Resort.
2. Proceed on the bicycle tour on you own & resort guys will follow you, reach to the river end and watch the sunset followed by tea.
3. On Return visit the Homes of Gond Tribe locals and enjoy their hospitality, as well as explore the similicity of the tribal life.
4. Most of the employees of the resorts are from the Buffer Zone ( Gonds) they have wealth of knowledge, interact with them to get full know-how of the Jungle.
5. Enjoy the nature and peacetime while at the resort.

Things to do Kanha National Park - Mukki Gate

Spotting Tiger in Kanha - Mukki Gate - Kanha Zone..

• Kanha has 3 zones, Mukki gate is very important as chances of tiger viewing is high due to biodiversity of the mukki zone.

• Spotting Tiger in Mukki Zone is also higher due to large water bodies available in Mukki, Shandor Lake, which is largest. There is a shoulder road on the lake which bisects the lake in two parks, you have chance to see magestic animals on both sides of the lakes.

• While you are in Kanha Mukki Zone, All focus is on Jungle Safari & view the magestic tiger, 2 times a day, 7 days a week. There are two Safaries offered in Kanha - Morning Safari starts from sunrise and concludes at 11:00 AM, followed by afternoon safari which starts at 3:00 Pm and concludes at sunset. Every Safari trip brings out new discovery, vistas, Gandeur of Kanha. Both safari's are must to be done.

• Morning Safari at Mukki  starts at same time ( sunrise) 6:00 AM, but you need to get up early and leave by 5:30 AM with packed Breakfasts. It can be quite cold even in summer, however blankets/Hot water bags are provided by the resort staff.

• Morning Safari in Mukki transports you to kanha core zone by 6:45 or 07:00 AM. Jungle is just fresh after the drama of the night. The advantage is easily identifiable pub marks which are undisturbed in the morning. More over in summer, All animals want to utilize the morning fresh weather before the harsh sun and tend to be out to graze. You will witness kanha famous swamp deer, Spotted deer, Langurs, Gaur, Peacocks, Jackals etc. Tiger spotting is a bonus reward, which can happen any time.

• Usually Jeeps are driven by the resort naturalist & one forest staff also joins the safari as a govt guide. Jeep can accomodate max 6 visitors & there are two front facing seats.

• Driver and Forest Guide in Mukki Zone work in close harmony with each other, listening to alarm calls of spotted deer, Jungle Cock, Most importantly Langurs, who make distinct distress calls on seeing a tiger, By following these calls, Tiger spotting is sometimes possible, other visible clues to tiger spotting is pug marks, feedback from rangers, and local knowledge of the terrain. 

•  In Kanha National Park Mukki Zone,  Guide and resort staff go out of the way in helping spotting a tiger, it is a good initiative to boost tourism in Kanha Zone.

• It should be noted that it is not guaranteed to see Tiger every time you go on safari, it is suggested that you need to do 4 safaris to cover both zones equally, then you see the king of the jungle..Every zone has a distinct ambience, so it is a must recommendation to visit all zones except Sari Zone, which is dry & does not offer any sitings.

• Even if you do not see the Tiger in Mukki zone, The very feel and pulse of the Kanha terrain is enough to give you enough thrill each time. so do not get emotional if you do not see a tiger each time.

• Costs of full family jeep booking in Mukki zone is approx Rs 6000/-  for indian national & Rs 9000/- for foreigners, and photo I card is a must to book the tickets online.

Why Visit Kanha National Park & Choose Mukki Gate

1. Mukki gate in Kanha National Park welcomes you to the domain of at least 4-5  iconic tigers ( Rajaram, Bhima, Chotee Mata, Mahavir male, link7, Aladin, umar pani male, bawa thenga male, umar jhola) of the region.

2. It is a tough dicision to select a resort to stay, Holidaytravel recommendes 7 tigers resort, The management of the resorts ensures that you get booking for the Kanha safari even in the peak season.

3. It is easier to spot a tiger in Mukki zone as there is a big water hole "Sondar and Baba Tenga talab" if you park your vehical on the road, you have lakes on both sides of the track, which is elevated & provides a good view for animals who come to water to quench the thirst. It is a favourite place for tigers, Bisons, Wild Boars, Peacocks, Deers. and Sighting is guaranteed at least in 2-3 safaris.

Best Resorts in Kanha- MUKKI Gate

• Seven Tiger's Resort - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4/5 - Good ( Middle Range Delux//Budget)
• Chitwan Lodge, Kanha - Holiday Travel Ranked - 4.5/5 - Excellent ( Luxury)
• Grand Tiger Resort, Kanha - Holiday Travel Ranked -3.5/5 - Good
• Bagh Villas - Holiday Travel Ranked - 5/5 - Excellent

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7 Tiger's Resort - Recommended Resorts in Kanha Mukki Zone - Medium Budget Catagory

There are many good resorts, when you enter from the Mukki gate, However recommended and Best one is 7 tigers resort located at about 7 Kms from the Mukki Gate. This resort is in Medium Budget Catagory approx Rs 6000-8000 Range

7 Tiger's Resort - Mukki Gate - Location Advantage

1. Resort's Location is perfect, it is in the Buffer zone near to Baiga's Village - Bheemlat ( Tribals of Madhya Pradesh). 

2. There are no other resorts in the vicinity, means no noise, no lights, no traffic near to Resort. You have a real jungle feelings once you are inside the resort.
 

3. Resort is located near to Banjar river, in fact the river flows withing the 23 acre property of 7 Tigers Resort, from the luxury suite you can see the river next to it.It is an excellent place to rejuvinate and enjoy the evening as well as watch the sunset followed by tea.
 

4. As resort is located near the Tribal Village, Resort can also arrange tribal tourism to the Baiga vilage & interaction with locals, You will enjoy their hospitality, as well as explore the similicity of the tribal life.
 

5. Most of the employees of the resorts are from tribals, they have wealth of knowledge, interact with them to get full know-how of the Jungle.

7 tiger's resort - Mukki Gate - Hospitality Extended - Administration & Staff Benefit

1. Guests get the Royal welcome, once they arrive for checkin or come tired after the safari..One definite advantage of 7 tigers resort is its dedicated staff and Management.

2. Mr. Krishnan ( Manager - 7 tiger resort) ensures perfect hospitality with minutest details. He is master of all strokes and extends hospitality in surprisingly minutest details.
 

3. Mr. Krishnan even drives the guests himself to Jungle Safari, A great initiative and humble gesture for guests.
 

4. Mr. Krishnan is a living wikipedia and has great knowledge of Kanha National Park, Its water bodies, Reading pug marks, Details of the wild life, which comes rewarding and as a bonus for the tourists.
 

5. Mr. Krishnan's sole ambition is to help customers to spot Tigers and goes out of the way to ensure the same.
 

6. In fact all staff of 7 tiger resort are so loving and helpful that you and your family will miss to come here again and again.
 

7. Many staff of resort belong to tribal Community and live nearby, they are living dictionary for the area knowledge.

7 Tiger's resort - Mukki Gate - Facilities - Rooms - Advantages

1. 7 tiger resort Rooms offer Luxury yet Eco Centric. The rooms are airconditioned to beat the heat of central India, have ample space, these are made of Sal wood.

2. Bathrooms are also eco centric.
 

3. The cherry on the cake is the sit-out-area or Balcony which overlooks think undergrowth and is a perfect setting for relaxation..
 

4. Very Nice dinining settings in the dining area, there are surprise dinner menu offered.
 

5. You feel absolutly at home, Safety, Care with personal touch is guaranteed.
 

6. Staff is trained to handle kids, so for family with kids, it is a great place to visit and relax.

Food at 7 Tiger's resort

1. 7 tiger resort specialise in excellent food, The menu is awsome prepared from organic vegetables sourced from Resort's vegetable garden ranging from never heard of delicacies.
2. Mr. Krishnan at 7 tiger resort ensures that even kids of 4 to 5 years enjoy the meals and does this task to perfection.
3. The food prepared at 7 tiger resort is gentle on stomach and less spicy but enfused with local Herbs.
4. All vegetables offered are organic and spices are authentic.
5. Resort uses only reverse osmosis triple purified water & guests can fill the same at will ( No extra charge for mineral water bottles).

Where is Kanha National Park Located

Reaching Kanha from Jabalpur/Nagpur

• Kanha National Park is located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
• Khatia (3 kms from Kisli) and Mukki are the main entry points to Kanha National Park.
• From Jabalpur, Kisli is 165 kms via Chiraidongri, and Mukki is 203 km via Motinala and Garhi.
• For travelers from Bilaspur (182 km), Raipur (213 km) and Balaghat (83 km), Mukki is more convenient.
• From Nagpur, Kisli is 259 km vis Nainpur and Chiraidongri, and Mukki is 289 km via Balaghat.

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Reaching Kanha from Nagpur/Raipur

• For travelers from Bilaspur (182 km), Raipur (213 km) and Balaghat (83 km), Mukki is more convenient.

Important FAQ about Kanha National Park

Where is Kanha Tiger Reserve Located?

Kanha Tiger Reserve situated in Satpura Maikal Landscape is spread over Mandla and Balaghat Disitrict of Madhya Pradesh State in India with the Head Quarter stationed at Mandla.

2.How do I reach Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Kanha is accessible from Jabalpur, Raipur and Nagpur by road to Kanha through regular bus and taxi services. All the three places are connected by road, rail and air with the major cities in the country.

4.Which are the entry points to Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Kanha Tiger Reserve has three entry points, namely, Khatia, Mukki and Sarhi.

Khatia is nearly 160 Kms from Jabalpur (Via Mandla), 250 Kms from Raipur (Via Chilpi - Mukki - Baihar) and 220 Kms from Nagpur (Via Seoni -Nainpur - Chiraidongri).

Mukki is nearly 200 Kms from Jablpur (Via Mandla-Mocha-Baihar), 210 Kms from Raipur (Via Chilpi) and 260 Kms (Via Seoni-Nainpur-Mocha-Baihar) and 260 Kms (Via Balaghat-Baihar) from Nagpur.

Sarhi Gate is nearly 8 Kms off Bichhiya, which is on NH 12 A about 150 Kms from Jabalpur (Via Mandla) and about 220 Kms from Raipur (Via Chilpi-Sijhora). Sarhi zone is not popular & very less tourists go to this zone.Currently no logistic infrastructure is available at Sarhi Gate. The Gate supports the Day Visitors only.

What is the best time to visit Kanha Tiger Reserve?

the Kanha Tiger Reserve opens from 16 October to 30th June every year.

What is the Closed Period at Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Tiger Reserve is open from October to December and Aril to May. Kanha Tiger Reserve remains closed for the period from 1st July to 15th October.

Kanha being situated in Central India is subjected to extreme and tropical weather.

Month ofJanuary witnesses sub - zero temperatures and frost.

Monsoon arrives in second week of June.

What are off days for Park Safari?

The Park shall remain closed to the visitors for both the safaris on the day of “Holi”. All Wednesday afternoon safaris shall remain closed to the visitors.

How to book ticket for safaris in Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Tickets for Park safari can be booked in advance from holidaytravel & Safari i guaranteed. Tickets are also available at the designated KIOSKs, Mandla Office and at all the Gates (Khatia, Mukki and Sarhi) in Kanha Tiger Reserve.

Can I visit all the zones with one entry ticket?

Tickets are issued for a specific zone. Safari is permitted only in the zone booked for. Other zones shall remain out of bound for the visitors.

How can I cancel and reschedule my ticket for the safari Tickets

Can only be cancelled and can not be rescheduled online.

Tickets can also be cancelled and rescheduled at the counters (subject to availability of tickets for the scheduled day) available at Mandla Office and near the Gates.

How many vehicles are allowed in Kanha Tiger Reserve?

• 140 vehicles are permitted to enter into the Park at a time both during the morning and afternoon drives.
• Kanha Zone accommodates 45 vehicles,
• Mukki accommodates 45,
• Kisli accommodates 20
• Sarhi Zone accommodates 30 vehicles per drive.

How many safaris can be made in Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Two safaris, one in the morning and the other during the afternoon are opened for the visitors for the safari. The safaris are from sunrise to sunset with a break during 1200 hrs to 1500 hrs.Timings are subjected to change depending on the season

What are the Zones in Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Safaris are made in four Zones in Kanha Tiger Reserve. The Zones are Kanha, Mukki , Kisli and Sarhi.

Kanha is notified as the Premium Zone. Each of the Zones can be accessed from any of the entry points with specific routes and under certain terms and conditions.

How much a ticket costs for the safari?

Tickets are available at Rs 1030/ for each safari to Mukki, Kisli and Sarhi Zone and Rs 1530/-- to Kanha Zone. The cost of the ticket does not include the Guide and Vehicle charges. Total costs including Guide and Jeep costs around Rs 6500/- normally, and it goes upto Rs 10,000/- during peak seasons.

How to get a Guide for the safari?

Guides shall be available at the entry point. It is mandatory to keep a Guide during the Parksafari. Cost of hiring a Guide will be Rs 200/- for each safari.Guides shall be provided on a asked to accompany the visitors right from the entry point at the time of verification of the ticket.

How to get a Vehicle for the safari

Only registered Gypsies are allowed to enter into the Park for the safari. The Gypsies can be hired at Rs 1800/- per  safari. The rates are governed by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Corporation and are subjected to vary as per the revisions made from time to time. No advance booking facility is available for hiring of Gypsies. No private vehicles are allowed to enter into the Park.

How many persons are allowed in a Vehicle for the safari?

A maximum of six persons excluding the mandatory Guide are allowed in a vehicle during the safari.

Any exemption for the children inthe safari?

Children up to five years of age shall be exempted from entry fee and elephant ride fee.

Where to stay in Kanha Tiger Reserve?

Accommodation facilities are available in Khatia Jungle Camp and Forest Rest House in Kisli and Mukki. All the rooms are provided with double beds. Three dormitories accommodating 20 beds are also available in Khatia Jungle Camp.

Rooms in Khatia Jungle Camp shall be provided with air coolers, hot water,furnitures (Only New Hutments) and colour TV with DTH connection.

Rooms in Mukki Forest Rest House shall be provided with air coolers, hot water and furnitures whereas

Rooms in Kisli Forest Rest House are provided with Air Conditioners, hot water and furnitures.

21.What are the activities that can b e taken up in the Core Zone of the Tiger Reserve

Nature trails

At Khatia and Mukki have been made for walking on foot and for moving on cycles.

A herbal trail in Chhapri near Khatia is also open to the visitors.

Orientation centers at Khatia and Mukki are open to the visitors during the evening hours.

The Park Officials explain the necessary conducts and safety measures to be taken during the safari. The amphitheaters are used for screening movies on wildlife. Besides, many of the hotels conduct guided tours to the country side.

22. What are the activities that can be taken up in the Buffer Zone of the Tiger Reserve

Visitors are allowed to move on open vehicles in the Park. One should refrain from teasing or wild animals.

Getting off the vehicle and moving on foot is strictly prohibited. First

Tiger Spotting in Kanha National Park

We follow a queue for the tiger sighting on first come first basis. Tickets are issued only after the tiger has been tracked and gets localised. The number of tickets to be issued will depend on the availability of time for the safari

Tiger shows on elephant back are conducted only during the morning safari. Visitors are taken on elephant back and are allowed to view the tiger upto a maximum of 10 minutes.

Tiger shows are called off the moment tiger makes a move. Visitors are not allowed to follow the tiger on elephant back and the tickets booked for the safari get refunded

Wildlife (Mammalian Species)

Kanha has some 22 species of mammals. Those most easily spotted are the Striped Palm Squirrel, Common Langur, Jackal, Wild Pig, Chital or Spotted Deer, Barasingha or Swamp Deer, Sambar and Black Buck.

How to Reach Kanha National Park

By Air Khatia (3 km from Kisli) and Mukki are the main entry points to the Kanha National park. From Jabalpur, Kisli is 165 km via Chiraidongri, and Mukki is 203 km via Motinala and Garhi. For travellers from Bilaspur (182km), Raipur (213km) and Balaghat (83km), Mukki on State Highway No. 26 is more convenient.

From Nagpur, Kisli is 259 km via Nainpur and Chiraidongri, and Mukki is 289 km via Balaghat.

By Train Nearest airport is at Jabalpur (156 km.), connected with regular flights from Delhi & Bhopal. Most convenient railheads are at Jabalpur and Bilaspur.

By Road Daily bus service available for Kisli and Mukki from Jabalpur and back. Taxis are available for hire from Jabalpur, Bilaspur and Raipur.

Vehicles are not permitted within the park after dark.

Best Season Best season February to June, although the cool season is much more comfortable and still very good for wildlife. The park is closed from July 1 to September 30 because of the monsoon. For those planning a visit, a stay of at least three nights is recommended in order to have a good chance of seeing the more elusive animals - although, of course, a brief visit will also be very interesting.

Important information about Kanha National Park

Area: (core) 940 km²

Terrain: sal and bamboo forests, plateaus, meadows and meandering streams

Best Season: February to June

    Morning Visiting Hours: 6:30 am to 12:00 noon

    Evening Visiting Hours: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

    Closed: 1 July to 15 October

The Nearest Airports are at Jabalpur, Raipur and Nagpur (Distances 175 km., 220 km. & 275 km., respectively)

Reintroduction of Barasingha in Kanha National park

An exciting conservation effort in this national park is the reintroduction of Barasingha. The Gaur will be relocated to Bandhavgarh and some Barasingha will be relocated to Satpura Tiger reserve The objective of this project is to introduce about 500 Barasingha in this national park to eight or nine different locations. There is also a project to capture about twenty tigers and relocate them to Satpura Tiger reserve.Reintroduction of Barasingha: Kanha National

Type of Wildlife in Kanha

Carnivores in Kanha National Park

Kanha's carnivore population includes tigers, leopards, wild dogs, wild cats, foxes and jackals.

Harbivores in Kanha National park

Among the deer species Swamp Deer or Hard Ground Barasingha is pride of the place as it is the only sub species of swamp deer in India (Cervus duavcelli branderi). The animal is adapted to hard ground unlike swamp deer of the North which live in marshy swamps. Kanha National Park has been instrumental in rescuing the “Swamp Deer” from extinction. Indian Gaur (Bos guarus), belonging to the ox genus, is found in Kanha but seen mostly as winter ends. In summer gaur inhabit meadows and water holes in the park.

Other commonly seen animals in the park include the spotted deer, sambar, barking deer and the four-horned deer. The latter can be seen at Bamni Dadar climb.

Recently, mouse deer have also been discovered in the tiger reserve. Introduction of Black Buck in Kanha Black buck did not originally survive here as the habitat was not suitable. However, Black buck have recently been reintroduced inside a fenced area in the park. Nilgai can still be seen near the Sarahi Gate, while the Indian Wolf once commonly seen at Mocha is a rare sight now. Hyena and sloth bear are seen occasionally. Langurs and wild boars are common, but the pugnacious rhesus macaque is seen less often.

Nocturnal animals

Nocturnal animals like fox, hyena, jungle cat, civets, porcupine, ratel or honey badger and hares can be seen outside the park confines.Reptiles like pythons, cobras, krait, rat snakes, vipers, keelbacks and grass snakes are nocturnal animals, and are therefore rarely seen. There are many species of turtles as well as amphibians found in or near the water bodies.

Kanha National park - An Inspiration for Rudyard Kipling

Kanha is One of World's best Wild life Areas, with stunning combination of Luxuriant meadows, Wooded Slopes and desnse stands of forests with crystal clear streams crfiss-crossing the forest. The lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows and ravines of Kanha provided inspiration to Rudyard Kipling for his famous novel "Jungle Book ". The lowland forest is a mixture of sal (Shorea robusta) and other mixed forest trees, interspersed with meadows. The highland forests are tropical moist dry deciduous type and of a completely different nature with bamboo on slopes (Dendrocalamus strictus). A very good looking Indian ghost tree (kullu) can also be seen in the dense forest.

Places to visit Kanha National Park

Bamni Dadar: Bamni Dadar is well known as the sunset point. This place is quite famous among the tourists and mostly people visit this place to capture a wonderful view of sunset. Animals like Sambar, Barking Deer, Gaur and the Four Horned Antelope can be easily seen here.

(Bamni Dadar)

Kanha Museum: Kanha Museum is located inside the park and is amazing place to visit. This is the best place to get information about the topography and different interesting aspects about the park.

(Kanha Museum)

Medicinal Plantation: Medicinal Plantation Conservation Area or MPCA is located at village Boda Chhapri 2 kms from village Mocha and worth a visit. But do remember to ask for a naturalist with good knowledge of plants and do not go on your own as this place is well inside dense forest. Best is to contact the local forest officers for permission and guide

(Medicinal Plantation)

When to visit Kanha National Park

The park is open daily from 15th of October to 30th June. The opening hours are scheduled to accord roughly with the seasonla variations in climate, as well as with the length of the day at different seasons. There is always a mid - day break, so that employees may eat lunch and rest and the animals may have respite too, The opening timing for Kanha National Park is :

1. 15 November to 15 February - Sunrise to 12.00 noon and 3.00 pm to Sunset

2. 16 February to 30 April - Sunrise to 1200 noon and 4.00 pm to Sunset

3. 1 May to 30 June - Sunrise to 11.00 am and 5.00 pm to Sunset 

How to reach Kanha National Park

Reach Kanha by air

The nearest major airport to Kanha National Park is Nagpur (280 Km).

Reach Kanha by rail

Jabalpur is the nearest railway station to Kanha National Park.

Reach Kanha by road

There are regular bus services from Jabalpur to Kanha.

Holiday Travel offers India wildlife tours to Kanha National Park. To book a tour or for more information, please enter your query in the form.