The most well-maintained National Park in India
The Kanha National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh, situated in the Maikal Hills of the Satpura Range. It stretches over two districts, namely Balaghat and Mandla. In 1879, it was declared a forest reserve. In 1933, it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary. Until around the 1930s, the Kanha National Park was divided into the Banjar and Hallon sanctuaries. It was later, in 1955, that it was declared a national park.
It is also believed that the Kanha National Park was the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's popular novel 'The Jungle Book.' Along with having an impressive number of tigers, Kanha National Park is known for the preservation of the endangered Swamp Deer (Barasingha). The stringent and effective conservation measures implemented at Kanha make it one of the most well-maintained national parks in India. Historically, the land under Kanha National Park was a part of the region inhabited by the Gonds. The two tribes of Central India — namely, the Baigas and the Gonds — once occupied this area.
Following are the main tourist attractions in Kanha National Park:
Flora: The flora in Kanha National Park mainly consists of mixed deciduous forests and sal trees. There are approximately 70 species of trees found in the park. One can easily spot trees such as bamboo, valley grasslands, jamun, and saja. Bamboo is prominently found on the middle slopes. The park also includes more than 200 varieties of flowering plants. The beauty of these trees and flowers is enhanced by the interspersed meadows. The moderate climate supports the growth of rich flora in this national park. The landscape is also nourished by the Nila, Banjar, and Sulkum rivers.
Fauna:
Both herbivorous and carnivorous animals can be found in Kanha National Park.
The Barasingha is known as the 'Jewel of Kanha.' It was reported that there
were around 1200 Barasinghas in the park till 2006. There are around
22 different mammal species found in Kanha. The rich density of fauna in Kanha
is considered exceptional. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot tigers, chital, common grey
langur, sambar, and swamp deer within the park.
One can also spot blackbucks roaming around. There are around
175 different bird species recorded in the national park. Elephant safaris in
Kanha National Park are very popular and sought after by tourists. Reptiles found in the
park include pythons, monitor lizards, and various species of snakes.
Excursions from Kanha National Park
Bamni Dadar: It is known for being the highest plateau in Kanha National Park. Initially, it was used for landing British officials who were interested in game hunting and jungle safaris. One can watch the beautiful sunset over the plains of Bisanpura, Ghorella, Quarai, and Mukki from the heights of Bamni Dadar.
Shravan Tal: It is located in the central part of Kanha National Park and is mythologically linked to the story of Shravan Kumar, who was accidentally killed by King Dasharatha.
Kanha Museum: The museum is located within Kanha National Park and is known for showcasing important artifacts reflecting the tribal culture of Madhya Pradesh.
When to Reach
Kanha National Park is open to tourists every year from the
15th of October to the 30th of June. Most tourists prefer visiting the park
from October to March due to the cooler climate. The period from November to
February is ideal for bird watching. The park remains closed during the monsoon
season, from July to mid-October.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Kanha National Park is Nagpur,
which is around 266 km away.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kanha National Park
is located in Jabalpur, around 169 km away.
By Road: Well-maintained roads connect Kanha National Park
with Jabalpur, Raipur, Khajuraho, and Mukki.
