Kanha National Park Safari

Table of Contents

Jungle Safari in Kanha National Park -

Embarking on a jungle safari in Kanha National Park is an exhilarating experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting wilderness and encounter the incredible wildlife that inhabits the park. In Madhya Pradesh, India, Kanha National Park is renowned for its conservation efforts and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Jungle safaris provide an opportunity to explore the park’s vast expanses and witness its stunning landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows and serene water bodies. During these safaris, you can catch glimpses of the park’s iconic residents, including the majestic Bengal tiger, Indian bison (gaur), leopards, and a myriad of bird species.

The park offers different safari options to cater to varied preferences and interests. Jeep safaris are the most common and convenient, allowing you to traverse the park’s designated routes with trained naturalist guides. Elephant safaris offer a unique perspective, providing a closer connection to the environment as you ride on the back of these gentle giants. For a more intimate experience, walking safaris take you on foot through the park’s buffer zones, allowing for a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna.

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable safari experience, following the guidelines provided by the park authorities and your safari guides is essential. Respect for wildlife and their natural habitat is crucial, as it ensures the continued conservation efforts and the well-being of the animals.

So, get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through the wilderness of Kanha National Park, where every safari promises the possibility of extraordinary wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable memories.

Safari Zones and Routes in Kanha National Park-

With its sprawling wilderness, Kanha National Park is divided into several safari zones and routes offering diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings. Each zone has unique characteristics and attractions, providing visitors with different experiences. Here are the main safari zones and routes in Kanha National Park:

Kanha Zone: The Kanha Zone is the park’s core area and is renowned for its thriving population of tigers. This zone encompasses dense forests, open meadows, and water bodies, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. The iconic Kanha meadow, also known as the “Baiga Chakkar,” is a highlight of this zone.
Kisli Zone: The Kisli Zone is another prominent safari zone in Kanha National Park. It offers a mix of dense forests and grassy meadows, making it an ideal habitat for various wildlife species. The Kisli Zone is known for its diverse birdlife and the picturesque Kisli River that flows through the area.
Sarhi Zone: The Sarhi Zone is located in the southwestern part of Kanha National Park. It is characterized by thick sal forests and grasslands, creating a diverse ecosystem. This zone is less crowded and provides a tranquil environment for wildlife enthusiasts. The scenic Shravan Tal, a beautiful lake, is a notable attraction in the Sarhi Zone.
Mukki Zone: The Mukki Zone is situated in the western part of the park and is known for its open grasslands, bamboo forests, and rugged terrain. This zone offers a unique landscape and is famous for its varied wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and the elusive Indian wild dog (dhole).

Each safari zone has designated routes that are followed during the jungle safaris. The routes are carefully planned to cover the prime wildlife areas and maximize the chances of wildlife sightings. The park authorities regulate the entry of vehicles into each zone to maintain a balanced ecosystem and minimize disturbance to wildlife.

Jeep Safari at Kanha National Park-

One of the most popular ways to explore the pristine wilderness of Kanha National Park is through a thrilling Jeep safari. These safaris provide an exciting and comfortable mode of transportation, allowing visitors to delve deep into the park’s heart and witness its remarkable wildlife and captivating landscapes.

Jeep safaris in Kanha National Park are conducted in open 4×4 vehicles designed for wildlife viewing. These sturdy and maneuverable jeeps can navigate various terrains, including rugged tracks and narrow paths, ensuring an exhilarating safari experience.

The Jeep safari allows you to cover a significant area of the park, maximizing your chances of encountering the diverse wildlife that inhabits Kanha. The experienced naturalist guides accompanying you on the safari possess in-depth knowledge about the park and its inhabitants, offering valuable insights into the behavior and ecology of the animals you encounter.

The safari routes are carefully planned to explore different habitats within the park, such as dense forests, grasslands, and water bodies, ensuring a comprehensive wildlife experience. Kanha National Park is renowned for its thriving tiger population, and a Jeep safari provides an excellent opportunity to spot these majestic big cats in their natural habitat. Other wildlife species you may encounter include leopards, Indian bison (gaurs), barasingha (swamp deer), sloth bears, and various bird species.

Jeep safaris in Kanha National Park are typically conducted in two daily sessions: morning and afternoon. The morning safari starts early, allowing you to witness the park come alive with the sounds of nature and the stirring of wildlife. The afternoon safari takes you into the golden hours of the day when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.

It’s advisable to book your Jeep safari in advance to secure your preferred timings and increase your chances of obtaining a permit, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, ensure that you follow the guidelines and regulations set by the park authorities, such as maintaining a safe distance from wildlife and refraining from littering.

Elephant Safari in Kanha National Park-

For a unique and immersive wildlife experience, an Elephant safari in Kanha National Park is an excellent choice. Riding on the back of these gentle giants offers a different perspective, allowing you to get closer to nature and observe the wildlife more intimately and tranquility.

During an Elephant safari, you will be seated on a specially crafted howdah (a wooden seat) placed on the elephant’s back. Accompanied by trained mahouts (elephant handlers) who have an intimate understanding of the park, the elephants will take you on a slow and steady journey through the dense forests and grassy meadows of Kanha National Park.

The Elephant safari provides a unique advantage over other modes of safari as elephants can access areas that are not accessible by vehicles. They can move silently through the forest, enabling visitors to experience the wildlife more serenely and non-intrusively. This increases the chances of encountering elusive species such as tigers, leopards, and the Indian bison (gaur).

The elephants are well-trained and accustomed to the presence of humans, ensuring a safe and comfortable safari experience. The mahouts act as knowledgeable guides, sharing their insights into the park’s ecology, wildlife behavior, and local folklore. They are also skilled at tracking animal movements, increasing the likelihood of remarkable wildlife sightings during the safari.

The Elephant safari in Kanha National Park typically occurs during the early morning or late afternoon, coinciding with the peak activity periods of wildlife. The elephants’ serene ambiance and gentle sway create a sense of tranquility and connection with nature, allowing you to absorb the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness.

Walking Safari: Immersive Nature Trails in Kanha-

For those seeking a more intimate and immersive experience in the wilderness of Kanha National Park, a Walking Safari is a perfect choice. This unique safari option allows you to explore the park on foot, guided by experienced naturalists who will lead you on beautiful nature trails.

Walking safaris in Kanha National Park offer a deeper connection with nature, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details of the ecosystem and engage with the environment on a more personal level. As you walk through the dense forests, open meadows, and along the banks of serene water bodies, you will have the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna up close and learn about their ecological significance.

The walking trails are carefully planned, taking you through diverse habitats and highlighting the park’s rich biodiversity. The experienced naturalist guides accompanying you possess in-depth knowledge about the park’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. They will share fascinating insights into the plants, trees, birds, and smaller wildlife species that may go unnoticed during vehicle-based safaris.

Walking safaris allow for a slower pace, giving you ample time to appreciate the smaller wonders of nature, such as the intricate patterns on a butterfly’s wings or the delicate blooms of a wildflower. You may also encounter animal tracks, bird nests, and signs of recent wildlife activity, adding to the thrill of the experience.

It’s important to note that walking safaris in Kanha National Park are conducted in designated areas and buffer zones for safety purposes and to minimize disturbance to wildlife. The naturalist guides will ensure you adhere to the park’s guidelines and maintain a safe distance from nature.

Walking safaris are typically conducted during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant and wildlife activity is at its peak. The duration of the safari varies depending on the trail chosen and the group’s interests, but it is usually a few hours long.

Safari Timings and Duration in Kanha National Park-

To make the most of your wildlife adventure in Kanha National Park, it’s essential to know the safari timings and duration. The park authorities have designated specific time slots for safari activities to ensure a balanced flow of visitors and minimize disturbance to wildlife.

Safari Timings:

Morning Safari: The morning safari session in Kanha National Park typically starts at sunrise and lasts 3 to 4 hours. The exact timing of the morning safari may vary slightly depending on the time of year and sunrise timings. It is advisable to arrive at the safari departure point well in advance to complete the necessary formalities and ensure a timely departure.
Afternoon Safari: The afternoon safari session usually starts a few hours before sunset and continues until dusk. Like the morning safari, the exact timing of the afternoon safari may vary based on the season. It is recommended to check the designated timings for the afternoon safari with the park authorities or your safari operator.

Safari Duration:

The duration of a safari in Kanha National Park can vary depending on the zone, wildlife sightings, and the specific route the safari vehicle takes. On average, a Kanha safari lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours. This allows visitors ample time to explore the designated safari zone, observe wildlife, and appreciate the park’s natural beauty.

It’s important to note that the safari duration includes the time spent on the safari route, and it does not have the time taken for the necessary park entry formalities, such as ticket verification and vehicle registration.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience, arriving at the safari departure point well before the designated safari time is advisable. This will give you sufficient time for ticket verification, vehicle allocation, and safety briefings conducted by the park authorities.

Kanha National Park Safari Charges-

The charges for safari in Kanha National Park vary depending on the type of safari and the visitor category. Here are the approximate safari charges:

1: Jeep Safari:

Indian Nationals: The jeep safari charges for Indian nationals typically range from Rs. 1,600 to Rs. 3,200 per jeep, depending on the zone and duration of the safari.
Foreign Nationals: The jeep safari charges for foreign nationals usually range from Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 7,000 per jeep, depending on the zone and duration of the safari.

2: Elephant Safari:

Indian Nationals: The charges for elephant safari for Indian nationals range from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,500 per person, depending on the duration and availability.
Foreign Nationals: The charges for elephant safari for foreign nationals range from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 5,000 per person, depending on the duration and availability.

Please note that these charges are approximate and can vary. It’s essential to check the official website or contact the park authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date safari charges.

Booking a Jungle Safari in Kanha National Park -

If you’re planning a visit to Kanha National Park and want to embark on a thrilling jungle safari, here are some essential steps to follow to book your safari:

Choose the Safari Option: Kanha National Park offers various safari options, including Jeep safaris, Elephant safaris, and Walking safaris. Decide which safari experience aligns with your preferences and interests.
Decide on the Safari Timing: Determine whether you prefer a morning or afternoon safari. Each time has unique advantages, such as witnessing the park come alive during the early morning or experiencing the magical light of the golden hours in the afternoon.
Contact Authorized Safari Operators: Kanha National Park has authorized safari operators responsible for managing the safari bookings. Contact them to inquire about availability, safari timings, and pricing. They will guide you through the booking process and provide the necessary information.
Provide Required Information: To book your safari, you will typically need to provide information such as your name, contact details, the number of participants, preferred safari date and timing, and any special requirements you may have. Ensure that you provide accurate information to avoid any issues later on.
Obtain Permits and Pay Fees: Once you have confirmed the safari booking, the authorized safari operator will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits and paying the required fees. These fees typically include park entry fees, safari vehicle charges, and guide fees. Make sure to inquire about the exact fees and payment methods accepted.
Confirmation and Safari Details: After completing the booking process and payment, you will receive a confirmation with the details of your safari, including the meeting point, safari zone, and any specific instructions or guidelines to follow. Keep this confirmation handy for reference.
Prepare for the Safari: Before your safari, gather all the essentials, such as comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a camera to capture memorable moments. It’s also recommended to carry a water bottle and some snacks for the safari.

Kanha National Park Ticket Price-

The ticket prices for visiting Kanha National Park can vary depending on the visitor’s nationality. The following are the approximate ticket prices for different categories:

1: Indian Nationals:

Entry fee: Rs. 50 per person per safari.
Vehicle fee: Rs. 250 per vehicle per safari.
Guide fee: Rs. 360 per safari.
Camera fee: Rs. 30 for still cameras and Rs. 400 for video cameras.

2: Foreign Nationals:

Entry fee: Rs. 1,500 per person per safari.
Vehicle fee: Rs. 2,500 per vehicle per safari.
Guide fee: Rs. 360 per safari.
Camera fee: Rs. 1,000 for still cameras and Rs. 1,500 for video cameras.

Please note that these prices are subject to change, and it’s always recommended to check the official website or contact the park authorities for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices and any additional charges.

Wildlife Sightings: What to Expect on a Jungle Safari

Embarking on a jungle safari is an exciting opportunity to encounter a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. While every safari experience is unique, here are some of the incredible wildlife sightings you can expect during a jungle safari:

Tigers: Kanha National Park is renowned for its tiger population, and sighting these majestic big cats is often the highlight of a safari. Tigers roam freely in the park, and with patience and luck, you may have the chance to witness their graceful movements and powerful presence.
Leopards: The leopard is another elusive and awe-inspiring predator inhabiting Kanha National Park. These stealthy creatures are known for their exceptional climbing skills and remarkable camouflage. Spotting a leopard in the dense foliage or draped across a tree branch is a thrilling experience.
Indian Bison (Gaur): Kanha is home to a significant population of Indian bison, also known as gaur. These massive herbivores are the largest wild cattle species and can often be seen grazing in the meadows and grasslands of the park. Their impressive size and formidable horns make for a captivating sight.
Deer Species: Kanha National Park is teeming with various deer species, including the spotted deer (chital) and the larger sambar deer. These elegant creatures can be seen grazing peacefully in the open grasslands and along the park’s water bodies.
Sloth Bears: While sloth bears are more elusive than some of the other wildlife species, Kanha National Park is known for its population of these unique creatures. With their shaggy coats and distinctive snouts, spotting a sloth bear trekking through the forest is a rare and special sighting.
Wild Dogs (Dholes): Kanha is also home to the dhole, also known as the Indian wild dog. These highly social and efficient predators hunt in packs and can often be spotted on the move or in group activities.
Birds and Small Wildlife: Kanha National Park is a haven for bird lovers, with over 300 bird species calling it home. The park offers ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts, from colorful kingfishers and vibrant flycatchers to majestic raptors and rare migratory birds. Watch for smaller wildlife, such as langurs, macaques, mongoose, and reptiles, like snakes and lizards.

Best Time for Jungle Safaris in Kanha National Park-

Kanha National Park offers a captivating wilderness experience throughout the year, but the best time for jungle safaris may vary based on weather conditions and wildlife sightings. Here are the key seasons to consider when planning your safari in Kanha:

Winter (November to February): The winter months in Kanha National Park are considered the peak season for safaris. The weather during this time is pleasant, with cool mornings and evenings. It is an ideal time to spot wildlife as the vegetation is relatively sparse, making animals more visible. The chances of tiger sightings are also higher during this period. However, it is advisable to carry warm clothing as the temperatures can drop during early morning safaris.
Summer (March to June): The summer season in Kanha can be hot and dry, but it offers its own unique experiences. The park’s dense foliage turns lush green, and wildlife congregates around water sources, providing excellent opportunities for sightings. Tiger sightings, especially near water bodies, can still be possible during this time. It’s important to note that temperatures can soar during the daytime, so it’s advisable to carry sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing for sun protection.
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Kanha National Park, and as a result, the park remains closed for safaris. The monsoon is a time of rejuvenation for the flora and fauna of the park, but the trails become slippery and difficult to navigate. It’s best to avoid planning safaris during this season.

It’s worth mentioning that the park’s opening and closing dates for safaris may vary each year, so it’s advisable to check with the park authorities or your safari operator for the exact dates of operation.

In conclusion, Kanha National Park is a wildlife haven that offers an incredible jungle safari experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or adventure seeker, this national park will surely leave you mesmerized. From majestic tigers and elusive leopards to the impressive Indian bison and many bird species, the park’s rich biodiversity never fails to impress.