Kanha National Park is among the country's most famous forests. It is located in Madhya Pradesh and is spread over an area of 940 sq km in the Maikal range of hills. The Kanha Tiger Reserve comprises the buffer and core zone put together, thus having a total area of 1945 sq km. The forest is known for its green forests, grasslands, and wild animals. The forest has been declared a national park since 1955 and has been a tiger reserve since 1973 under Project Tiger. Today, there are more than 100 Bengal tigers in the forest, according to the latest tiger count. Because of this, several people from India and other countries visit this forest every year to see the wild animals living freely in their own home, known as a safari in the Kanha National Park. The forest is also known for the famous story The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling. It is believed that the forests in the story are based on the forests in Kanha.

Chance to See Rare and Amazing Animals

One major reason why wildlife enthusiasts visit Kanha National Park is that it has in store for them a variety of wildlife. The park has tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, jackals, and many species of deer. One of the most unique species found in Kanha National Park is the hard ground barasingha, also called the swamp deer. This species was at one time close to extinction but was managed by forest officers to increase its numbers. Today, over 800-1,000+ hard-ground barasingha are found in Kanha National Park. This means that it is the only place in the world where you can see this animal in large numbers. While on a Kanha National Park safari tour, you are likely to see herds of spotted deer grazing in open fields. These deer are called chital or spotted deer. In addition to this, you are likely to see other big animals like the gaur, which is considered to be the largest wild cattle in the world. Some males have been found to weigh up to 900 kilograms. In addition, there are over 300 species of birds found within the park. Birds such as peacocks, eagles, owls, and kingfishers can be seen during the safari ride within the forest. Due to the presence of such a large variety of animals and birds, wildlife enthusiasts enjoy every moment spent within the forest.

Best Safari Experience in India

Kanha is known for having one of the best safari systems in India. The park is divided into four main zones of safari. These zones are Kisli, Kanha, Mukki, and Sarhi. These zones have different forest areas, grasslands, and water bodies where the animals can be sighted. The safari is carried out in an open vehicle called the Gypsy, which can accommodate up to six people. There are also larger vehicles called the Canter, which can accommodate twenty people. The time taken for the safari is around three or four hours. The morning time for the safari is (approx. 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM) and the afternoon (approx. 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM). A Kanha National Park safari is carried out with the help of forest guides who know the forest very well. These guides not only help the tourists understand the behavior of the animals but also provide information on the forest. The forest is safe for visiting with the well-managed system of safari and the rules that are strictly followed.

Best Time and Tips for Visitors

The park is open to visitors from October to June every year. It remains closed from July to September because of the rainy season. The best time to visit the park depends on the season one wishes to see. The winter season, i.e., from November to February, is cool and pleasant. The temperature may go down to 10 degrees Celsius in the morning. The forest remains very green and beautiful during this time. The summer season, i.e., from March to June, remains quite hot, with temperatures rising to 40 degrees Celsius. However, it is the best time to see tigers because animals come closer to the water source to drink water. It is advisable to book the tickets in advance because the number of vehicles that can enter the zone every day is limited, i.e., 120 days in advance. It is advisable to bring light-colored dresses, water, and other things required to enter the forest. It is also advisable to remain silent during the journey through the forest because the animals will remain calm, and the chances of seeing them will be higher.

Conclusion

A Kanha National Park safari is an excellent adventure for those who love the beauty of nature and animals. The beauty of the forest, the large grasslands, and the opportunity to see many animals, including the famous Bengal tiger and the rare barasingha, make it a great adventure for those interested in the beauty of nature. The forest has protected forest areas, offering the opportunity to see over 300 species of birds. The management of the Kanha safari is excellent, providing the perfect environment for those interested in the beauty of nature to have a great time in the forest.