Kuno National Park – Complete & Official Visitor Guide

(As per Forest Department, Madhya Pradesh)

1. Introduction

Kuno National Park is one of India’s most significant wildlife conservation areas, located in Madhya Pradesh. The park has gained global recognition as India’s first site for the reintroduction of African Cheetahs, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s conservation journey.

Kuno represents a unique ecosystem of grasslands, open woodlands, and riverine forests, making it ecologically distinct from traditional tiger reserves.

2. Conservation Significance

Kuno National Park holds national and international importance due to:

• India’s first Cheetah Reintroduction Programme

• Restoration of grassland and savanna ecosystems

• Scientific wildlife monitoring and habitat management

• Long-term, landscape-level conservation planning

The park is managed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department under strict protection and monitoring protocols.

3. Geography & Landscape

Kuno National Park features a diverse and open terrain, including:

• Natural grasslands and savanna patches

• Dry deciduous forests

• Rocky outcrops and gentle hills

• Seasonal rivers and natural water sources

This varied landscape supports a healthy prey base and wide-ranging wildlife species, especially suited for cheetah ecology.

4. Flora & Fauna

Mammals

Kuno supports a diverse range of mammals, including:

• African Cheetah (reintroduced species)

• Leopard

• Sloth Bear

• Striped Hyena

• Indian Wolf

• Chital, Sambar, Nilgai

• Wild Boar

Birdlife

Kuno is rich in bird diversity, particularly grassland and forest birds:

• Crested Serpent Eagle

• Indian Peafowl

• Vultures and other raptors

• Bee-eaters and rollers

Vegetation

Dominant vegetation includes:

• Dry deciduous tree species

• Natural grasslands supporting herbivores

• Scrub and savanna vegetation

• Native shrubs and medicinal plants

5. Safari & Wildlife Experience

Wildlife tourism in Kuno National Park is strictly regulated and conducted only through  notified safari routes and gates, as per Forest guidelines.

Safari Highlights:

• Jeep safaris through grassland and forest tracks

• Conservation-focused wildlife interpretation

• Quiet, controlled safari movement

• Natural landscapes with minimal disturbance

6. Safari Zones & Entry Gates

Safari activities are conducted through entry gates notified by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department.

✅ Tiktoli Safari Gate

✅ Ahera Safari Gate

7. Best Time to Visit

• October to February: Pleasant weather and comfortable safaris

• March to June: Increased wildlife activity near water sources

• July to September: Park remains closed due to monsoon

8. Visitor Guidelines & Important Rules

• Valid government-issued ID is mandatory

• Maintain silence during safaris

• Do not step out of vehicles inside forest areas

• Avoid bright clothing and loud behavior

• Feeding or disturbing wildlife is strictly prohibited

• Follow instructions of forest guides and officials at all times

9. Why Visit Kuno National Park?

• India’s first cheetah reintroduction site

• Rare grassland and savanna ecosystem

• High conservation and scientific importance

• Peaceful, less commercial wildlife experience

• Opportunity to witness a historic conservation project

10. Ideal For

• Wildlife and conservation enthusiasts

• Nature lovers and photographers

• Birdwatchers

• Educational and research groups

• Visitors interested in India’s cheetah conservation program