Kanha National Park is located amongst the Banjar and Halon Valleys giving
it a shoe shaped picturesque view, and better known as the N'Gorongoro
of India. Situated in the Mandla District of the state of Madhya Pradesh,
the Kanha National Park was declared a Sanctuary in 1933 and granted the
status of National Park in 1955. The Park spreads out to an area of 1945
sq kms covered with extensive grassland, dense Sal forest. It was the real
inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's famous Jungle book. The
park holds the distinction of being the first success story of Project Tiger,
wherein the Tiger population has doubled since 1976. The Park is the only
habitat of the rare Hardground Barasinga, besides, there are over 200 species
of birds making Kanha a bird watcher's paradise.
Wildlife Attractions
Flora : The slopes of the plateau park is densely forested with Sal at
its best, besides, Bida, Haidu, Dhaura, Bamboos thickets and Sindhur.
It is the photographers dream land due to its amazing natural beauty.
Surrounded by the spur of the Mekal, the Surpan river flows through Kanha's
central maiden grassland that covers the extensive plateau. Rocky escarpments
offers a breathtaking view of the valleys and meadows that lie in the
midst of dry deciduous forest. Common vegetative species are Phoenix Aqualis,
Shorea Robusta and Cassia Fistula.
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Fauna : On the hope of spotting the Tiger preying after a Barasinga,
one can easily catch glimpses of the Porcupine, Gray Langurs, Mongoose,
Hyena, Chittal, Nilgai, Sambars, Blackbucks and Wild dogs (Dholes). The
Swamp Deer is the jewel of the Park. The reptiles in the park includes -
Monitor Lizard, Pythons and a large variety of other snakes.
Birds : Some of the interesting species of birds for the bird lovers
are - Pied or Marse Harriers, Red Jungle Fowls, Whistling Teals, Pintails,
Shovelers,Drongos, Black Vulture, Gray Hornbills, Flycatchers, Woodpeckers,Common
Gray Patridges, Green Pigeon, White Breasted Kingfisher and Black Ibis.
Park Trips : The Park authorities organises Elephant Safaris, which
begins from Kissi, Kanha, Mukki and is a wonderful experience to sight the
Tiger from such near distance. Apart from that, Jeep Rides are also available.
The Kanha Museum depicting the tribal culture of the state of Madhya Pradesh
inside the Park can also be seen. Bamni Dadar also known as the sunset point
is quite popular among tourists to get a glimpse of the setting sun.
Best Time to Visit :
The climate is topical and temperature hovers between 23.9 Cand
40.6C in the summers and 11.1C to 23.9C in the Winters.
The Park is closed to visitors during the Monsoon periods from July to
Mid November, November to January is the most ideal time to visit the
Park.
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Accommodation :
Tourists can benefit themselves in the Baghhira Log Huts and a youth hostel
rooms can be booked through the MPSTDC office. In addition to the Log
huts, there are other forest rest houses and cabins at nearby Khatia,
Musli and Mukki.
There is also the Royal Tiger Resort at the entrance of the park at Mukki
in an area of 6 acres. The 3 star resort consists of excellent 18 Suits
for the visitors. The rooms are airy and offer a splendid view of the
surroundings. Attached bathrooms, a well stocked library, generator backup
facility ensures the visitors a pleasant stay at the resort. The Wild
Chalet Resort - offers a luxury accommodation in deluxe rooms with all
amenities on twin sharing basis. The restaurant serves Indian, Continental,
Chinese Cuisine and has a Bar for wine takers.
How to Reach :
By Air : The nearest airport from where to reach the Park conveniently
are, Jabalpur Airport (200kms), Raipur(216kms) and Nagpur(280kms). Nagpur
is the best as it is connected by various domestic airline services.
By Rail : Jabalpur at 169 kms by rail is the convenient Station to visit
Kanha National Park.
By Road : The Park is connected by roads from Jabalpur (175kms), Nagpur(266kms),
Raipur(219kms). The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department runs a jeep service
for the comfort of the visitors. The nearest Town to Kanha is Mandla 65
kms by road.
KANHA NATIONAL PARK - Information/Reservation Form