Kanha National Park

About Kanha National Park

Kanha National Park, located in the Maikal range of Satpuras in Madhya Pradesh, is one of India's largest and most famous national parks. It's renowned for its significant population of tigers and the successful conservation of the Barasingha (swamp deer), an almost extinct species. The park's breathtaking landscape, characterized by vast grasslands, dense sal and bamboo forests, and the meandering Banjar and Halon rivers, inspired Rudyard Kipling's 'The Jungle Book'. Kanha offers an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience, allowing visitors to glimpse predators, herbivores, and a rich diversity of birdlife in their natural habitat. With its commitment to conservation and thrilling safari opportunities, Kanha is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

History

Kanha National Park's history dates back to 1879 when a part of the forest was declared a reserve forest. Over the years, it gained recognition for its rich biodiversity, especially its population of swamp deer. In 1930, the Banjar valley was declared a sanctuary, followed by the Halon valley in 1935. The two areas were consolidated and declared a national park in 1955, making it one of the first wildlife reserves in India to be protected under the Wildlife Protection Act. A crucial turning point was the launch of Project Tiger in 1973, under which Kanha was designated a Tiger Reserve, significantly boosting conservation efforts, particularly for the endangered tiger and the unique Hardground Barasingha. Extensive efforts have been made to relocate villages from core areas, ensuring minimal human-wildlife conflict and promoting a thriving ecosystem.