Kanha National Park, Location, History, Flora, Fauna, Facts

Kanha National Park is the largest national reserve in Madhya Pradesh which is spanning in 941 sq.km and known for its exceptional conservation efforts, it is one of the finest and well-maintained National Park in India. It is also a part of ‘Project Tiger’ and is considered one of its nine Navratnas (core reserves). Kanha National Park is famous for providing habitat to the Royal Bengal tiger and the barasingha (swamp deer), a species that was once on the verge of extinction. Bhoorsingh the Barasingha,’ was declared as Kanha National Park mascot representing the remarkable conservation success.

Kanha Tiger Reserve

Kanha Tiger Reserve is also known as Kanha Kisli National Park which is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh covering 941 sq.km divided into two districts namely Mandla and Balaghat. It was established in 1933 governed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department. Some of the species housed in Kanha Tiger Reserve are the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, barasingha, and dhole all residing in the park. It is also the first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a mascot, Bhoorsingh the Barasingha.

Kanha National Park History

Kanha National Park was part of Gondwana, also known as the “Land of the Gonds.” The Gonds and Baigas, two indigenous communities of Central India, inhabited and depended  on the dense forests of the Kanha Tiger Reserve. Situated in the Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, the Kanha Tiger Reserve is home to two significant sanctuaries: Hallon Sanctuary and Banjar Sanctuary. The Kanha National Park is divided into two zones, covering 250 square kilometers and 300 square kilometers, contributing to a total protected area of 1,949 square kilometers.

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Kanha National Park Flora

Kanha Tiger Reserve holds a diverse range of flowering plant species, adding to its rich biodiversity. The forest landscape is naturally divided into highland and lowland regions, each with distinct vegetation.

The lowland forests are dominated by sal trees (Shorea robusta) and a mix of other tree species, combined with lush meadows that provide grazing grounds for herbivores. On the other side, the highland forests consist of tropical moist and dry deciduous trees, creating a unique ecosystem.

Kanha National Park Fauna

Kanha National Park serves as shelter to a diverse range of wildlife, including predators and herbivores. The Kanha Tiger Reserve is a home for Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, dhole (Indian wild dog), sloth bear, Bengal fox, and Indian jackal. The barasingha who once were on the verge of extinction have adapted well in the marshy grasslands, making Kanha a crucial conservation site for its survival. The gaur (Indian bison) is commonly found in the park’s grasslands and waterholes, while blackbuck sightings are rare in the reserve.

Kanha Tiger Reserve Interesting Facts

1. Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of the most visited national parks in India, known for its breathtaking landscapes and one of the highest densities of tigers in the country.
2. Kanha Tiger Reserve played a major role in conserving the barasingha (swamp deer) from extinction. This accomplishment has earned Kanha global recognition in wildlife conservation.
3. Kanha's rich biodiversity supports a wide range of wildlife species, because of its diverse topography. The park is divided into highland and lowland areas, creating a perfect habitat for various animals. 
4. The award-winning National Geographic documentary, Land of Tigers (1980), was filmed in Kanha National Park, showcasing its incredible wildlife and scenic beauty to the world.
5. Kanha Tiger Reserve is also home to one of the most endangered species of wild dogs in India, the dhole, which are known for their intelligence and aggressive hunting behavior.
6. Originally established as a Kanha National Park in 1955 was later declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973 under Project Tiger, strengthening its role in tiger conservation.
7. Some commonly spotted birds include the Crested Serpent Eagle, Wood Shrike, Paradise Flycatcher, Grey Hornbill, Indian Roller, Pond Heron, Peacock, Red Jungle Fowl, and Steppe Eagle.