KANHA

Nestled in the heart of India, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha Tiger Reserve, which encompasses Kanha National Park, is known for its huge sal and bamboo forests, vast and lush meadows, and meandering streams.

This diverse habitat supports a wide array of wildlife, including the majestic Bengal tiger, including leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, sambar, chital, wild boars, Indian Gaur, the state animal of Madhya Pradesh - The barasingha (hard-ground swamp deer), and over 300 bird species. This reserve has played a crucial role in saving several endangered species from extinction.

Kanha's journey from a set of fragmented forests to a premier tiger reserve is a compelling narrative of conservation. Officially declared a reserve forest in 1879, it underwent several transformations before being designated a national park in 1955.

The area was further enlarged and declared a tiger reserve in 1973, under Project Tiger, India's ambitious tiger conservation program.

This initiative was pivotal in reversing the decline of the tiger population in India, with Kanha being at the forefront of these efforts.

Conservation Successes: The park is celebrated for the successful conservation of the Barasingha from near extinction.

Through dedicated efforts, including habitat management and protection from poaching, the barasingha population has significantly increased, from being just 66 in 1967 to over a thousand today, making this one of Kanha's most heartening conservation victories.

Inspirational Landscapes: It is believed that the enchanting forests of Kanha served as the backdrop for Rudyard Kipling's famous work "The Jungle Book", which adds a layer of mystical allure to the reserve.

Exploring Kanha's history, its captivating flora and fauna, along with the logistical aspects of reaching this magnificent natural haven, reveals why it stands out as a premier wildlife destination.