Kanha National Park - A Wildlife Traveler’s Handbook
Where tiger trails meet luxury stays - discover Kanha with Club Mahindra.
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The roar of a tiger echoes through the forest, the rustle of sal leaves in the breeze, and the sight of deer grazing in open meadows. This is the magic of Kanha National Park.
Known as one of India’s most celebrated tiger reserves, Kanha is a paradise for wildlife lovers and family travellers alike. Located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, it offers thrilling safaris, vibrant tribal culture, and moments of pure serenity.
Enhancing this adventure is a stay at Club Mahindra Kanha, the finest jungle resort in Kanha and among the best resorts in Madhya Pradesh, where comfort blends seamlessly with the call of the wild.
About Kanha National Park
Location: Situated in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha is one of India’s largest and most famous tiger reserves.
Established: Declared a national park in 1955 and a tiger reserve in 1973 under Project Tiger.
Area: Spreads across 940 sq. km of core area with buffer zones, covering dense sal forests, meadows, and valleys.
Famous For: Known worldwide for the Royal Bengal Tiger and the successful conservation of the Barasingha (swamp deer).
Getting to Kanha National Park
By Air: The nearest airport to Kanha National Park is Jabalpur Airport, at a distance of around 160 km, which takes about 4 hours by road.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kanha National Park is Gondia Junction, about 145 km away, which takes nearly 3.5–4 hours by road. Another option is Jabalpur Railway Station, situated 160 km from the park, with a travel time of around 4–5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park:
The park remains open for visitors from 16th October to 30th June. Winter (November to February) offers pleasant weather for safaris, while summer (March to June) increases the chances of tiger sightings as animals gather near waterholes.
Things to Do in Kanha
Adventure takes many forms in the heart of Kanha National Park, where every moment feels like a discovery. From thrilling safaris to tranquil evenings, here are the top things to do in Kanha:
Jeep Safari: Ride deep into the jungle and experience the thrill of spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger, graceful Barasingha, and herds of deer in their natural habitat.
Elephant Safari: A rare opportunity to view the forest from above and connect with its vastness in a unique way.
Nature Walks & Birdwatching: With over 300 bird species, from eagles to storks, every walk turns into a colourful adventure.
Village Tours: Visit Gond and Baiga tribal settlements to witness traditional art, dance, and crafts that bring the region’s culture alive.
Kanha Museum & Interpretation Centre: Gain deeper insight into the park’s rich biodiversity and conservation story.
Evening Bonfire & Stargazing: Unwind at resorts in Kanha, where evenings are spent sharing safari tales under star-filled skies.
Whether it is the adrenaline of a tiger safari or the serenity of stargazing, Kanha’s experiences create a perfect balance of thrill and tranquillity.
Zones in Kanha
Exploring the different zones of Kanha National Park ensures every safari feels unique. Each area has its own charm and wildlife sightings:
Kanha Zone: The core safari area, famous for tiger and Barasingha encounters.
Kisli Zone: Known for dense sal forests and breathtaking landscapes.
Mukki Zone: Rich in grasslands, often rewarding with leopard and sloth bear sightings.
Sarhi Zone: A quieter stretch, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful jungle trails.
Together, these zones showcase the diverse wilderness of Kanha, making them an essential part of the adventure.
Wildlife Encounters in Kanha
Animals:
The highlight of any Kanha National Park is the Royal Bengal Tiger, whose presence makes every safari thrilling. Equally fascinating are leopards, masters of stealth often seen gliding through the dense canopy. Kanha is also home to the Barasingha, the swamp deer that symbolizes the park’s conservation success. Sloth bears occasionally appear on trails, while wild dogs, or dholes, captivate travellers with their rare pack hunting behaviour.
Birds:
For bird enthusiasts, Kanha offers over 300 recorded species. From hornbills and eagles to storks, each adds vibrant colour and movement, making wildlife in Kanha an unforgettable experience.
Best Place to Stay: Club Mahindra Kanha
Among the premium resorts in Kanha, Club Mahindra Kanha stands out as a jungle retreat where adventure meets comfort. Located just 10 minutes from the Khatia Gate, it offers quick access to safaris while providing family-friendly stays in spacious rooms and luxury tents that blend modern amenities with a rustic charm.
Guests can immerse themselves in signature Club Mahindra experiences such as rejuvenating Svaastha Spa therapies, farm-to-fork dining, bamboo craft sessions, and lively Bollywood theme nights. Children enjoy creative activities at the Happy Hub, while families bond over nature walks and cook-with-chef workshops.
With a Club Mahindra Membership, travellers unlock holidays at over 140 premium properties, including family-friendly jungle resorts in Madhya Pradesh and across India.
Conclusion
A journey through Kanha National Park is an immersion into nature’s finest theatre, where tigers roam free, birds fill the skies, and families share stories around the fire. After thrilling safaris, the best way to relax is at premium resorts in Kanha like Club Mahindra Kanha, where adventure meets comfort.
With a Club Mahindra Membership, every trip transforms into a blend of discovery and togetherness, making Kanha the ultimate family escape in Madhya Pradesh.