Kanha National Park

I am in Madhya Pradesh and have just completed my trip to Kanha National Park. I am slightly disappointed with this trip of mine. There are two sure shot reason and one 'may be' reason for my disappointment. First sure shot reason is that I expected too much and second reason is that I was very ill-equipped. And the 'may be' reason is, may be my luck was not with me today. Any ways, I still I had some moments that I could carry with me for a while, till better ones replace them.

Now about Kanha National Park, It is no doubt a really wonderful national park, very well maintained and densely populated. Kanha National Park is the only habitat of rarest of rare Hardground Barasinghas. I did not see any (aahhhhh) coz' i was more eager to see the tigers. After my short and sweet encounter in Ranthambore, I just couldn't wait to sight another one. My guide told me, that this is the best time to see a tiger in the woods and took our jeep to a very secluded spot where he thought the chances were pretty high. After some time, we did see a tiger but he was too far away. This is where I was ill equipped. I had forgot to bring my binoculars along (aahhhhhh). Though one of the guys with us on the jeep lend me his, but for how long do you think he let me keep it? I also missed my binoculars when it came to bird watching.

Bird Population here includes Cattle Egret, Black Ibis, Hawk Eagle and Red Wattled Lapwing. Sambhars, Barking Deer, four horned Antelopes and Gaur are what some of the mammals I saw today. I was told that there are 22 species of mammals and more than 220 species of birds in Kanha National Park. There is tiger tracking also done in Kanha National park using elephants.


Where To Stay – Kanha Safari Lodge, Bhagira Log Huts of Kisli and Tourist Hostel In Kisli, all of which are run by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, are the best options.

Safari Timings -
Oct. 1 - Feb. 15 – 6 AM to 12 Noon (Morning), 3 PM to 5.30 PM (Evening)
Feb. 16 - Apr. 15 – 5. 30 AM to 12 Noon (Morning), 4 PM to 6 PM (Evening)
Apr. 16 - Jun. 30 – 5 AM to 11 AM (Morning), 4 pm to 6.30 PM (Evening)

Best Time To Visit – February To June (I know I came early!!!!). The park is closed from July 1 till October 31.

How To Reach – Jabalpur is the nearest railway head which is nearly 170 Km from here. There are regular bus service to Kanha National Park. One can also hire a taxi.