Kanha Kisli National Park located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is one of the largest and most well-known tiger reserves in India. It was established in 1955 and later declared a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1973. The park spans over an area of around 940 square kilometers encompassing dense forests, grasslands and meandering streams. One of the main attractions of Kanha National Park is its rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian wild dogs and barasingha also known as the swamp deer. The park is particularly renowned for its significant population of Bengal tigers, which are often spotted by visitors during safaris. Apart from tigers, Kanha National Park is also famous for its avian diversity, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the park including migratory species that visit during the winter months.
The park is open to visitors from October to June with the best time to visit being during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Kanha Tiger Reserve offers a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts making it a popular destination for ecotourism in India.
Near Kanha National Park, there are several interesting places worth visiting that offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage and wildlife experiences. Here are some popular options:
Jabalpur: Jabalpur located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is a historical city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Bhedaghat is one of the most iconic natural wonders near Jabalpur- the Marble Rocks are towering limestone cliffs rising along the Narmada River. Visitors can take boat rides between these magnificent marble formations, especially enchanting during sunrise and sunset. Located near Bhedaghat, Dhuandhar Falls is another popular tourist spot. The waterfall creates a smoky mist giving it its name. Visitors can witness the cascading water and enjoy the panoramic views of the Narmada River. Madan Mahal Fort historical fort built by the Gond ruler Raja Madan Shah in the 11th century offers a glimpse into Jabalpur's rich past. Situated atop a hill, the fort provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the city. Named after the warrior queen Rani Durgavati, this museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, sculptures, coins and manuscripts depicting the region's history, culture and art. Jabalpur with its blend of natural beauty, historical sites and cultural landmarks offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking to explore the heart of India.
Amarkantak: Amarkantak, often referred to as the Teerthraj is a sacred town located in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It holds immense religious significance for Hindus as it is considered the source of the Narmada River, one of the seven holiest rivers in Hinduism. Narmada Kund is the origin point of the Narmada River which is believed to emerge from a small pool called the Narmada Kund. Pilgrims gather here to take a dip in the holy waters believing it to cleanse them of their sins. Amarkantak is dotted with numerous temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. Some notable ones include the Narmada Temple, Shri Sarvodaya Jain Temple and the ancient Kalchuri-era temples like the Shri Yantra Temple and the Shri Jwaleshwar Mahadev Temple. Kapildhara and Dugdhdhara Waterfalls are located amidst lush greenery and are popular spots for relaxation and sightseeing. Kapildhara is associated with the sage Kapila, while Dugdhdhara is known for its milky white appearance. Apart from its religious and natural attractions, Amarkantak offers serene landscapes, tranquil surroundings and a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation and tranquility.
Mandla: Mandla a town in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh is a historical and cultural hub known for its rich heritage, natural beauty and religious significance. Mandla Fort one of the prominent attractions in Mandla is the Mandla Fort also known as the Ramnagar Fort. Built by Gond ruler Raja Gond between the 17th and 18th centuries, the fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Narmada River. It's a significant historical site reflecting the architectural brilliance of the bygone era. Mandla is situated on the banks of the Narmada River and the Narmada Ghat is a serene spot where locals and visitors gather for religious rituals, cultural events and leisure activities. It's a picturesque location to witness the beauty of the river and enjoy peaceful moments. Mandla is dotted with numerous temples each carrying its own historical and religious significance. The Shivani Mata Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Shivani is particularly famous and attracts devotees from far and wide. Other temples worth visiting include the Devgarh Temple and the Kala Pahad Temple.
