Plan An Unforgettable Safari Experience At Kanha National Park With These Tips

Here's how to ensure an enriching experience at Kanha National Park while contributing to the conservation of its unique environment.

Published On Jan 22, 2025 | Updated On Jan 22, 2025

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Kanha National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most renowned tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Spread across 940 square kilometres, the park is a haven for Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian wild dogs, and diverse flora and fauna. Known for its mesmerising landscapes, Kanha features dense sal forests, open meadows, and serene water bodies, creating a quintessential wildlife experience.

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  • Winter Season: November to February is perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers because of the mild temperatures around these months. At Kanha National Park, you can not only see migratory birds but also enjoy the lush greenery of the post-monsoon season.
  • Summer season: Months from March to June Summers are the peak time for wildlife sightings, especially tigers in Kanha National Park, as they gather around waterholes. Though it’s hot, morning and evening safaris are cooler and highly rewarding. Enjoy the serene beauty

What to avoid? Monsoon season at Kanha National Park. The park remains closed to visitors during these four months due to heavy rains. Also, July to October is a regeneration period for the flora and fauna in area, and once this period is over, the companies resume safari at Kanha National Park.

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Kanha is home to a healthy population of Bengal tigers. Many tigers in Kanha are iconic, often named by guides based on their behaviour or lineage. There is the very dominating Neelam, very frequently sighted Junior Bajrang, and then Patte Wala who was raised in human care, reintroduced to the wild. The park, known for its conservation success under Project Tiger, is a prime location for spotting these majestic cats. The best time to go to Kanha National Park for tiger sightings is during the summer months (April to June). As water sources shrink, wildlife congregates near specific areas, increasing the chances of a memorable encounter. The best zones for frequent tiger sightings are the Mukki and Kanha zones. 

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Firstly, visit the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department’s official website for online booking. Then select your preferred zone - Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, or Sarhi. One can choose either of the jeep safaris private for a personalised experience or canter safaris (shared), safari duration is 3-4 hours approximately per session.

Safari at Kanha National Park timings:  

  • Morning Safari: Starts around 6:00 am
  • Evening Safari: Starts around 3:00 pm

It is best to stay within 10-15 kilometres of the park gates for convenient safari access. To make sighting tigers in Kanha National Park,  opt for accommodations which offer guided nature walks or tribal village visits to enrich your experience.

  • Taj Safari Lodge, Banjaar Tola: It is one of the best resorts in Kanha National Park, known for its opulent tented suites with views of the Banjaar River.  
  • Singinawa Jungle Lodge: This premium resort offers eco-friendly luxury with curated wildlife experiences.
  • Kanha Jungle Lodge: A blend of comfort and adventure, with proximity to the Kanha National Park. 
  • Mogli Resorts: If you are looking for  family-friendly resorts in Kanha National Park with all modern amenities, this is a great option
  • Bagh Villas jungle camp: This combines simplicity with warm hospitality.  
  • Forest rest houses: Operated by the Forest Department, offering a basic yet authentic forest stay.
  • Kipling Camp: A boutique hotel known for its serene ambience and exceptional service is one of the most famous and populated hotels in Kanha National Park.  
  • Chitvan Jungle Lodge: This hotel combines modern amenities with rustic charm, offering proximity to key safari zones in Kanha.
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Kanha National Park is divided into four core zones, each with its unique characteristics:

  • Kanha zone: Known for its green scenery with bamboo shrubs and the popular tourist spot Shravan Taal.
  • Kisli zone: Rich in diverse plants, animals, and rare bird species. It is also known for being more affordable.
  • Mukki zone: Recognized for good tiger sightings and is one of the oldest safari zones in the park. Ideal for photographers and adventure lovers.
  • Sarahi zone: Features forest-like exposure with extensive grasslands and is famous for the first sighting of the Barasingha (swamp deer) in 1996.

  • Advance booking: It is highly recommended that you get your Kanha Tiger Reserve safari booking permits in advance, especially during peak seasons. The park allows online booking up to 30 days in advance for Indian nationals and 90 days for foreign nationals.
  • Safari slots: There are only two safari slots available. Booking early or in advance for safari at Kanha National Park is crucial as the number of permits is limited and in high demand.
  • Full-day safari permits: For serious photographers and filmmakers, full-day safari permits are available, allowing zone-free access across the entire park from sunrise to sunset. These permits are more expensive but offer greater flexibility and exclusive time for wildlife tracking.

When visiting the Kanha National Park, respect the environment, follow park rules, avoid littering, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.


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