About Kanha National Park

Park History and Other Information

Kanha National Park is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh, covering 941 square kilometres, and is best regarded for its success in increasing the population of Bengal tigers and saving the Baarasingha from getting extinct. In fact, Bhoorsingh the Barasingha’ is the official mascot for Kanha National Park.

National Geographic’s award-winning documentary film, ‘Land of the Tigers, was shot here.

History

Below is the historical significance that happened to the Kanha starting from the year 1955

1879

The forest area was officially declared a Reserve Forest by the British administration.

1880

Rudyard Kipling wrote the famous “Jungle of Book” by getting inspired by the wildlife of Kanha.

1933

The Kanha forest area was officially designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary.

1955

Kanha was established as a National Park on June 1, marking a major step for conservation.

1970

Special conservation efforts began to protect the endangered Hard-Ground Barasingha (Swamp Deer), the “Jewel of Kanha.”

1973-74

Kanha was designated as one of the first nine protected areas under Project Tiger, leading to intensive conservation efforts.

1976

The area of the National Park was expanded to 940 sq km to enhance conservation.

1980

The park gained international attention after the award-winning National Geographic film, “Land of the Tigers,” was shot here.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (November to February)

The most pleasant time to visit Kanha. Cool weather makes safaris comfortable, and you can spot animals basking in the sun. Great for photography and bird watching.



Summer (March to June)

Hot days but the best time for tiger sightings. As water sources dry up, wildlife gathers near lakes and ponds, giving you higher chances of close encounters.

