Kanha Tiger Reserve – Complete & Official Visitor Guide

(As per Forest Department, Madhya Pradesh)

1. Introduction

Kanha Tiger Reserve, officially known as Kanha–Kisli Tiger Reserve, is one of India’s most renowned and scientifically managed tiger reserves, located in Madhya Pradesh.
Globally admired for its rich biodiversity and well-maintained forest ecosystem, Kanha is especially famous for the successful revival of the Hard-ground Barasingha (Swamp Deer).

The reserve represents the classic Central Indian forest landscape, combining dense sal forests, open meadows, and riverine habitats.

2. History & Conservation Importance

• Declared a National Park in 1955

• Included under Project Tiger in 1973

• One of India’s earliest and most influential tiger reserves

Conservation Highlights:

• Scientific wildlife monitoring

• Advanced grassland and habitat management

• Successful species conservation programs

• Strict protection with regulated eco-tourism

Kanha’s conservation model has influenced wildlife management practices across India.

3. Geography & Landscape

Located in the Maikal range of the Satpura hills, Kanha features:

• Dense sal and mixed deciduous forests

• Vast open grasslands (maidans)

• Plateaus, valleys, and seasonal streams

• Riverine forest ecosystems

This varied terrain supports high wildlife density and excellent safari visibility.

4. Flora & Fauna

Mammals

Kanha is home to a diverse range of mammals, including:

• Royal Bengal Tiger

• Indian Leopard

• Barasingha (Kanha’s signature species)

• Gaur (Indian Bison)

• Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer

• Sloth Bear

• Indian Wild Dog (Dhole)

• Jackal and Fox

Birdlife

With 300+ bird species, Kanha is a major birding destination:

• Crested Serpent Eagle

• Indian Roller

• Malabar Pied Hornbill

• Peafowl

• Owls and Woodpeckers

Vegetation

Dominant vegetation includes:

• Sal forests

• Bamboo clusters

• Extensive grasslands

• Native medicinal and forest plant species

5. Safari Experience

Safari tourism is strictly regulated by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department to ensure wildlife protection and visitor safety.

Safari Features:

• Jeep safaris in designated zones

• Trained forest guides for interpretation

• Well-defined safari routes

• Balanced eco-tourism with minimal disturbance

⏰ Safari Timings:

• Morning Safari

• Afternoon Safari
  (Timings are subject to official forest notifications)

6. Safari Zones of Kanha Tiger Reserve

(Official structure as per forest.mponline.gov.in)

A. Core Zones (Strictly Protected)

These form the heart of the reserve, dedicated to wildlife conservation.

1. Kanha Core Zone

   • Scenic grasslands

   • Prime barasingha habitat

2. Kisli Core Zone

   • Historic zone

   • Dense forests and diverse wildlife

3. Mukki Core Zone

   • Riverine forests and water bodies

   • Strong tiger movement

4. Sarhi Core Zone

   • Quiet and less crowded

   • Mixed forest terrain and natural corridors

B. Buffer Zones (Regulated Tourism)

Surround core areas and support conservation and local livelihoods.

• Khatia Buffer Zone – Transition forest landscape

• Khapa Buffer Zone – Wildlife movement corridors

• Phen Buffer Zone – Natural vegetation and prey base

• Sijora Buffer Zone – Transitional habitat zone

7. Best Time to Visit

• October to February: Pleasant weather, lush greenery

• March to June: Higher wildlife sightings near water sources

• July to September: Core zones closed due to monsoon

8. How to Reach

Kanha Tiger Reserve is accessible via major towns of Madhya Pradesh.
Safari entry is allowed only through officially permitted gates and zones, as notified by the Forest Department.

9. Visitor Guidelines & Rules

• Valid government-issued ID is mandatory

• Maintain silence inside the forest

• Do not step out of safari vehicles

• Avoid bright clothing and loud behaviour

• Feeding or disturbing wildlife is prohibited

• Follow all instructions of forest guides and officials

10. Why Visit Kanha Tiger Reserve?

• One of India’s best-managed tiger reserves

• Global success story of barasingha conservation

• High ecological and biodiversity value

• Stunning landscapes and rich wildlife

• Perfect balance of conservation and eco-tourism

11. Ideal For

• Wildlife and nature enthusiasts

• Tiger & barasingha safaris

• Wildlife photography

• Birdwatching tours

• Educational and conservation-focused travel