Posted 30 November 2022 in To the Wild

Experience the wild side of life at Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park, popularly called Kanha Tiger Reserve, is enriched with diverse flora and fauna. It is the largest national park of Madhya Pradesh and forms a well-known destination for tourist attractions. Nature enthusiasts from all over the country desire to explore the diverse wildlife of Kanha National Park. This vast dwelling ground for diverse wildlife is also one of India's most prominent tiger reserves. Kanha National Park covers an area of 1945 sq. km. This includes the Maikal Hills and buffer zones surrounding them. The location extends to several adjoining neighbouring villages and districts, which are centres of human inhabitation.

Natural compositions of Kanha Tiger Reserve

Kanha Tiger Reserve consists of grasslands and forests with elevated plateaus. It is renowned for being the first tiger reserve in India to have a mascot – Bhoorsingh, the Barasingha. Besides tigers, the grasslands are also home to jackals and wild pigs. Birds of prey are inhabitants of the Bamni Dadar Plateau. Sondar Tank, Babathenga Tank and the Kanha Museum are among the watering holes in the tiger reserve.

Flora and fauna that mesmerise tourists at the Kanha National Park

The forests and woodlands of the national park are made up of 70 different types of dry deciduous forests. Additionally, they consist of over 200 different flowering plants. Tendu, Sal, Saja, bamboo, Palas, Achar, Mahua, and other trees can be spotted. The Indian ghost tree, a rare species of tree, can also be found there. Additionally, the slopes, hills and grasslands are home to several wild plants like Forbes, climbers and grasses.

Kanha National Park is inhabited by the Swamp Deer or Barasingha, which is found only in these forests. It is not only the state animal of Madhya Pradesh, but it is also an endangered species of deer. Moreover, the presence of tigers puts this national park on the world wildlife map.

Besides swamp deer and tigers, the chital, panther, sambar deer, barking deer, blackbuck, chousingha, langur, gaur, wild pig, sloth bear, jackal and wild dog can also be spotted here. Furthermore, reptiles such as Indian cobras, pythons, common rat snakes, kraits, fan-throated lizards and others are commonly found. These forests are also inhabited by a diverse range of fish and over 300 bird species. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can plan a trip to explore the wildlife of Kanha National Park.

Places that can be visited in Kanha National Park:

Mukki Zone: This is the second zone in the national park and is located at a distance of 65 km from the Kanha core zone. It can be reached via a jeep or a private car. The time from October to February, and from March to June are best suited to visit this zone.
Kisli Zone: This zone is a part of the Kanha main zone and is located at a distance of 8 km from the main entrance. It can be reached via a canter, jeep, elephant ride, or by taking a private vehicle. The time from October to February, and from March to June are best suited to visit this zone.

Recreational activities that can be explored in Kanha National Park

1. Cherishing the safari

The Kanha National Park Safari is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in this region. This national park is limited to four safari zones, namely Kanha, Kisli, Sarhi and Mukki. Reservations for the safari can be made online well in advance or at the entrance of the park. The official website of the national park can be visited for details on safari booking. At the Tiger Reserve, you can pre-book a complete package that includes the entrance fees, stay, and safaris. Such a package can aid you to explore the wildlife of Kanha National Park in a convenient manner.

The timings for the safari are from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., and from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The entry fees may range from INR 1500 to INR 1800, subject to the number of visitors. The safari fees for a vehicle including six people may range from INR 1500 to INR 2000. Contrastingly, the fees for the Elephant Safari may range from INR 300 to INR 600.

2. Taking a night safari for the adrenaline rush

This two-hour night drive through the Khatia buffer zone is a newly introduced activity.

Visiting the Kanha Museum: This site preserves evidence associated with Kanha's natural topography, history and details of all flora and fauna species.

3. Savour the sunset at Bamni Dadar

Bamni Dadar is the national park's highest point, with views of vast meadows. Sunset is known to have a soothing effect that leaves you feeling peaceful and calm. You can end the evening safari with spectacular sunset views by taking the last evening safari.

4. Opting for an Enriching Jungle Trek in the forest trails

It is a two-hour walk led by a naturalist that is trained. The naturalist takes tourists through the Khatia zone. You must drive up to Khatia to obtain a trekking permit. Forest vegetation, birds, butterflies, flowers, insects and small mammals can be witnessed on the walk.

Interesting tourist spots near Kanha National Park

Mandla

It is situated around 34 km away from Kanha National Park. It is a small, picturesque tribal town on the loop of the Narmada River. This town is known for its rich culture and ancient history. The Garam Pani Kund is located 20 km from Mandla town on the Mandla-Jabalpur road. It is famous for its sulphur-rich hot water well with medicinal value for treating several skin diseases. This location is surrounded by dense forests and a beautiful lake, making it an ideal hideout to relax. When in Mandla, you must not miss out on the Ramnagar Fort, also known as Mandla Fort or Moti Mahal. It was built in the 17th century by the Kings of the Gond Empire. The fort, which is located on the banks of the Narmada River, is famous for its three-story architectural style. It was primarily incorporated to keep an eye on enemies from the top of the fort. The fort is also surrounded on three sides by the Narmada River, which made it an ideal strategic location for defence.

Kawardha Palace

It is located around 85 km away from Kanha National Park. This beautiful royal residence sits on the Maikal Hills and is built with Italian stone and marble. Its design reflects the colonial, Italian and Mughal styles.

Amarkantak

It is situated around 160 km away from Kanha National Park. It is a prominent pilgrim town located on the junction of Vindhya Ranges and Satpura. Further, it is known for the source of Narmada, Mahadev Temple, Pataleshwar, Kapildhara Fall, etc.

Jabalpur

It is located around 130 km away from Kanha National Park. This historical city is situated on the banks of the Narmada River. Jabalpur is well-known for its stunning ancient temples, waterfalls, antique monuments and interesting rocky areas. Dhuandhar Falls is one of the best places that can be visited in Jabalpur. This waterfall is popular because of its distinct fall and smoke sequence. The falls are 30 m high and release smoke due to the water vapours. It is situated on the Narmada River in Bhedaghat. A cable car service that transports visitors from one side of the river to the other has been established for the convenience of visitors. The falls are breathtaking and extremely scenic to view. The Rani Durgavati Museum in Jabalpur is another well-known spot that can be visited. It was created to honour, learn and retell the stories of bravery of Rani Durgavati.

Hotels and resorts for accommodation while visiting Kanha National Park

The standard resorts that can be considered while planning a trip to Kanha National Park include:

Kanha Meadows Retreat situated near Mukki Gate
Satya Ashoka Resort situated near Kisli Gate
Grand Tiger Resort situated near Mukki Gate
Mogli Resort situated near Kisli Gate
M K Resort situated near Kisli Gate
Sanjay Tiger Resort situated near Kisli Gate
Kanha Village Eco Resort situated near Kisli Gate
Hotel Kanha Resort situated near Mukki Gate
Pugmark Resort situated near Kisli Gate
Taal Tiger Retreat situated near Kisli Gate

The high-end resorts that can be considered while planning a trip to Kanha National Park include:

Banjaar Tola situated near Mukki Gate
Singinawa Jungle Lodge situated near Mukki Gate
Tuli Tiger Corridor situated near Kisli Gate
Shergarh Tented Camp situated near Mukki Gate

Some essential tips for visiting Kanha National Park

Tips related to clothing and other commodities: It is advisable to wear an easy-to-manage dress so that your legs can move freely. Ladies are likely to feel comfortable in either trousers or salwar suits. However, saris can be highly inconvenient because they make getting into and out of the safari jeep difficult. Tourists should avoid wearing perfumes or deodorants inside the jungle because honey bees are a source of constant threat. Early mornings tend to be cold in the jungle, even in March and April. Hence, you must carry woollens during March and April as well. To view wildlife from a reasonably safe distance, you must carry a good pair of binoculars.
Tips relating to handling children: Technically speaking, there are no restrictions on bringing children of any age to Kanha National Park. However, Kanha is not the best place to bring infants and toddlers. A safari ride in the jungle should be enjoyed in complete peace and silence. Silence ensures that wild animals are not attracted by any unusual noise and are not disturbed. Infants and toddlers are likely to cry or misbehave. Hence, you should wait for toddlers to reach an age of maturity so that they can enjoy the safari.
Tips to beware of apes: The area is densely forested, which leads to the presence of many monkeys and langurs (black-faced monkeys). They can be found on trees, on the side of the road, and very often near resorts too. Even though they are likely to be harmless, you should avoid carrying food in your hands while stepping out of protected buildings.
Tips to keep in mind while going to Kanha National Park Wildlife Sanctuary: It is advisable to explore in the daylight. Additionally, keeping a safe distance from the animals can ensure the well-being of both wildlife and tourists. You must camp only in designated areas and avoid prohibited areas. You should always remain inside the vehicle on a jeep safari, as stepping out could be dangerous.

Routes that can be taken to reach Kanha National Park

By taking a train: The nearest railway station is in Jabalpur and is 150 km away from this park. From there, you can book a taxi, take the bus, or rent a car, to reach the national park.
Travelling by road: The national park can be accessed from nearby cities such as Bhopal, Jabalpur, Nagpur and Raipur. These cities have regular state-run and private bus services. The easiest way to get to Kanha National Park is to book or pre-book a taxi from any of these places. Travelling by road adds to the possibility of becoming a road trip with friends or family. Hence, taking the road can add the element of spending more quality time with loved ones.
Taking a flight: The closest airport to this destination is in Jabalpur, around 130 km away. A car may be rented, or a taxi may be booked from the airport to reach the national park. Taking an IndiGo flight to Jabalpur can be time-saving for those who have a limited number of days to enjoy their vacation.

On a concluding note, Kanha National Park is surely a good destination for an adventurous vacation. You can explore the wildlife of Kanha National Park and have a close look at the beauty of forests by visiting this place.