The largest national park in Madhya Pradesh, characterized by its lush sal forests and vast grassy meadows known as 'Dadars'.
Kanha National Park is often considered one of the finest wildlife areas in the world. It is the landscape that famously inspired Rudyard Kipling to write The Jungle Book. Spread across the Mandla and Balaghat districts, the park covers a core area of 940 sq km. Its mesmerizing beauty lies in its diverse terrain—from dense bamboo and sal forests to the large, open meadows where herbivores graze in peace.
While the Royal Bengal Tiger is the top predator here, Kanha's greatest conservation success story is the Hard Ground Barasingha (Swamp Deer). Once on the brink of extinction, this subspecies was saved through dedicated efforts in Kanha and is now the "Jewel of Kanha".
The park is divided into major safari zones like Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, and Sarhi. Each zone offers a distinct experience. Mukki is known for its thick forests, while the Kanha zone offers picturesque meadows. Other wildlife includes the Indian Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Leopard, and the majestic Gaur (Indian Bison).
Bamni Dadar, known as Sunset Point, offers a spectacular view of the entire park where visitors can often spot Sambar and Barking Deer against the setting sun. The park's well-managed tourism and excellent interpretation centers make it a model for conservation in India.
A visit to Kanha is a dive into the heart of India's wilderness, offering not just sightings but a holistic jungle experience.
Official booking inquiry for Kanha Tiger Reserve.

Zone-wise permit costs, jeep charges, and official safari schedule for Kanha.
The total cost typically includes the Forest Permit, Vehicle (Gypsy) Charge, and Guide Fee. Prices may vary slightly based on the gate (Khatia/Mukki/Sarhi).
| Visitor Category | Est. Price | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Nationals | ₹6,500 - ₹8,500 / Jeep | Up to 6 Persons |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹12,000 - ₹15,000 / Jeep | Up to 6 Persons |
*Tatkal permits (booked 1 day prior) cost significantly more. Weekends incur a premium.
Timings are synchronized with sunrise and sunset to ensure visitor safety and wildlife comfort.
Season: 1st October to 30th June.
Closure: Evening safaris closed on Wednesdays. Full park closed during Monsoon (July-Sept).
Best Time: February to April offers a balance of good weather and high visibility for tigers and barasingha.