My 2017 started off with a trip to one of the most popular tiger reserves in India – Kanha National Park. I had been raring to get here and do my bit of wildlife spotting for quite some time now. However, some trips elude you till there is that one right time to do it. Thanks to Club Mahindra resorts, I finally managed to get here and what is more – meet Bajrang.
Bajrang is one of the many tigers within the Kanha National Park and I was lucky to have spotted him on my first safari in the park. Bajrang treated us by pacing around in the open space, before he disappeared back to his lair. Those few moments were so impactful that I kept thinking of him through the entire day and even through the next safari that I partook. I imagined his life, his thoughts and his actions in conjunction with every aspect of Kanha National Park. Naturally, this travel story of Kanha National Park is best told in his voice. Enjoy my journey through the park in the voice of Bajrang the tiger as he shares all the travel tips, travel sights and other aspects of my visit. Over to Bajrang –
Contents
About Kanha National Park
Howdy there you humans!
Welcome to my home – Kanha National Park. My home is over 940 sq kms in size and is considered to be one of the largest national parks in India. It has been awarded the best tourism friendly national park by the Department of Tourism in India. As huge as my home is, it is divided into four zones – Kanha, Kisli, Mukki and Sarhi. You can enter these zones through 3 main gates – Kanha-Kisli gate, Mukki gate and the Sarhi Gate.
Start of a Day at Kanha National Park
Every morning at the three gates, there is a huge line of humans seated in the jeeps. No one can dare enter at night for it is our lair and we are free to do whatever we want then. The reality is that the humans cannot really stop us in the dark hours. So, they choose to venture in during the morning, when they feel a little safer. The good thing is that there are limited jeeps and canters that are allowed in, allowing us to still rule our home.
The gates open sharp at 6:30 am and you see the humans with watery eyes and bundled up clothes, rubbing their palms together for heat, all seated and alert to spot me. Before the gates open, the wildlife enthusiasts are busy gossiping about their last safaris while the newbies are trying their best to keep up with the wildlife chatter. The ones in the canter are busy grabbing their last minute spots – just like the owner of this blog- Ami Bhat.
Sights of my home
Once the gates open, the jeeps rush through first while the noisy canters slowly saunter in at the end. I personally, love my home at Sunrise as the light filters through the branches and leaves of the trees and lights up the path.
The lovely lakes glisten bright and the varied grasslands just turn golden or green depending on the season. I love the long grass and the dense vegetation within as it allows me to hide and spy my neighbors and these interfering humans. Sometimes, it is best to avoid these nosy neighbors, each one with their own crazy nature. Let me introduce them all.
The inhabitants of Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park, unfortunately, is not just my home but I have to share it with a lot of these characters. The elusive leopards generally stay in hiding and are rarely spotted but let me introduce the ones that the blog owner of Thrilling Travel has captured.
Spotted Deer at Kanha National Park
Show-offs, vain creatures, these ones are just around in plenty. And never alone! Lakes, pools, open fields….they are just everywhere, showing off their glistening golden coats with spots on it. When they know someone is watching, they even prance and jump around. Let me assure you that is how they run when they see me!
Peacocks
Proud creatures that just break into a dance to attract the opposite gender. Don’t they have any dignity!
Barasingha
My closest competitor for attention. I don’t know why they are considered to be the pride of Kanha National Park. It is us tigers who are deserving of the title. They never leave a chance to show off – see this one for instance, with all that decoration on his horns. I can never forget the insult to injury when I was hit by those horns.
The swamp deer are just so hungry for attention that they have actually grown horns over it!
Hiding Owls
These are a nuisance. They hide but never fail to spoil the game in the evening by their constant hooting and wise advice that they give to the rest of the inhabitants.
Pesky Langurs at Kanha National Park
Smart Alecs! Another of those guys who is always ready to spoil the game. No matter where ever I roam, he alerts the humans and the others of my arrival by hooting loudly. Why even the canter in which the owner of this blog was traveling heeded to his calls and found me!
Tigers of Kanha National Park
Besides these neighbours, let me share a few stories of my cousins – the other tigers of Kanha National Park. I am not one of the famous ones here…it is this cousin of mine called Munna. And just because he has got the letters of CAT written on his forehead. Check out his picture below – not clicked by the travel blogger Ami. She seemed a trifle sad that she could not see him and had to make do with me. I forgive her nonetheless, for giving me the opportunity to be the star of her blog post on Kanha National Park.
If it is not Munna that people look out for, then it is his son – Chota Munna who killed that famous Bheema and rose to fame. Grr…I say he just got lucky. And then there is the clown among us all – one who managed to lose an ear – Kaanphata (torn ear in Hindi). There are more but we bunch, are the famous tigers of Kanha National Park.
Me – Bajrang in the spotlight at Kanha
Now, let me relive the day I met Ami Bhat. I was ready for my morning chores and so far had managed to evade those stealthy jeeps. Suddenly, out of nowhere the canter with all the people including Ami Bhat and Divyakshi zipped by as I stepped out of the bushes. All of us were startled but before they recovered, I made way to the other side to finish my urgent bio requirement.
Then, I vanished but those pesky langurs kept calling and alerting the rest of the people of my presence. I also, realized that by meeting these bloggers I could rise in fame – a one up against all my cousins. So, why not just let them see me some more . And with that, I sauntered back into the path and crossed over many times to ensure that the paparazzi got enough shots of me. Ensuring that was done, I went back but not before implanting my memory and my interview in the mind of Ami Bhat. I know that she will make me famous. Cheers to all of you till I see you the next time in my own lair!
Overall impression of the Kanha National Park
And with that we finish this interview with Bajrang. This is Ami back to her own voice. 🙂
Kanha National Park is a delight for any wildlife visitor. It is great for first-time wildlife enthusiasts too. The sheer beauty of the place with its flora and fauna is bound to enthrall anyone. Though I went for two safaris, I felt it was not enough to capture it all. I would love to go again and hope to spot more of its hidden gems. I wonder what you thought of my visit and its tale in the voice of Bajrang. Message me and let me know.
Getting here:
- The nearest airport to Kanha National Park is at Jabalpur, which is 166 kms by road. There are daily flights from the key cities of India to this airport.
- Nagpur (280 kms) is the other national airport that can be used.
- There are regular buses from Jabalpur and Nagpur that take you to the resorts in Kanha.
- Alternatively, you can opt for a private cab to take you here. Resorts too, can arrange for a drop and pick-up from the airports or railway stations.
Travel Tips:
- Here is a useful website for Kanha National Park.
- The entry to the park is allowed between 6:30 to 10:30 am and between 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. This is on all days except Wednesdays.
- There is no stopping within the park except at one point where you can use the public toilets.
- Please make sure you carry your snacks and water bottles with you. Once you are within the park, there is no getting out till you are done with the safari.
- Please keep a spare bag for putting your trash. Let’s keep the park a litter free zone.
- Do not make any loud noises once you are within the park.
- The safaris are inclusive of a driver and a guide. Please listen to the instructions of the guide carefully.
- Do not attempt to step out of your vehicle while in the park.
- The mornings and evenings here are quite chilly and hence, please carry your woolens and jackets for the same.
- The park safari is quite dusty. If you are allergic to the same, please avoid going in or using a filter mask while there.
- There are only limited jeeps that are allowed in for every safari. It is quite hard to get the booking on the spot. Advance booking either through travel agents or resorts is advised. Our booking too, was last minute. For the first safari we had to opt for the MP tourism canter. For the second safari, a Club Mahindra guest and the resort were kind enough to take us in a jeep on a sharing basis.
- Kanha National Park is far into the wild and you might not always get lucky to spot a tiger in one safari. I would recommend staying here for a day or two and attempting at least 2 safaris.
- For the stay, one of my recommendations would be the Club Mahindra Kanha resort. The resort promises you an awesome time with their lovely pool, scrumptious food, relaxing spa and tented accommodations. The resort has a lot of cultural and fun family activities for you to relax between your safaris. They are well-tuned and familiar with the Kanha national park. Hence, they arrange for the food and transport for you at the wee hours of morning.
- Remember to carry your Govt. IDs when heading for the safari. You will need the same before you enter the park.
Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.
I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.
Nice post Ami and those are some great shots of Bajrang…
Thanks Jatin.
Nice and some great captures.
You were lucky to spot so many animals…Your post can be referred for future trips
Thank you. I sure was lucky.
Lovely pictures and great post Ami..You are amongst a few lucky ones to get this close to nature and capture some of the best moments 🙂
Thank you. I agree that I was quite lucky to be able to see these guys so close and personal.
Loved reading this interview with Mr.Bajrang, must say he stole our heart 😉
He stole mine too :D. Thanks for stopping by.
Bajrang is a good narrator I must say 😀 I am heading there soon too 🙂 Clubbing this with a quick stop at Jabalpur. The forest itself looks so alluring 🙂
I wish I could have done Jabalpur too…it is supposed to be amazing. I hope you manage to meet Munna and Bajrang.
Good post. Love to invite you for my blog.
Thank you.
The interview with Mr. Bajrang is amazing.. & I loved the pics Ami 🙂
Thank you Maitreni. Bajrang was a kind soul 😉
Your photos are so amazing! I have only seen a tiger in the wild so close one time. I would love to visit this national park.
Thank you. Kanha does have a lot of treats in store for its visitors. Hope you get to go sometime
Wow, what a great post … and those pictures! Really loved reading this one, you entirely transported me to Kanha National park!
Thanks Ariane. It was a fantastic experience.
This is amazing I love seeing them in the wild. I just got back from South Africa where I did a safari in Kruger National Park
Seeing them in the wild is a different thrill altogether. Glad you experienced it.
Thanks for all the tips – especially the ones about respecting the animals and staying quiet. I find we often forget we are the ones coming into their space! That’s a great reminder!
True. We need to remember that we are in their lair. Silence does allow you to appreciate the sounds of nature that you would have otherwise ignored.
Nice narration and pictures!!
Thank you.
OMG!!! You’re so lucky to have seen Bajrang!!! I’m yet to see a tiger in wild, though I’ve seen a leopard…. Btw, totally totally love your style of narration in this post… 🙂 🙂 🙂
Thank you Bhushavali. I am lucky to have sighted one here and many more in Kabini. Hope you too, get to spot one soon. They do steal your heart.
Why that is awesome that you spotted Bajrang! Your photos are amazing what an awesome experience! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you. Glad you liked reading through Bajrang’s story. He will be pleased.
A tiger reserve, I’d definitely enjoy that one! I’ve never seen a tiger in the wild yet, and the park also seems to have quite a lot of diverse wildlife. Pinning this for my future travels 🙂
Ooh you sure will enjoy this park. So much to see and experience within. Hope you get here soon.
What stunning photos.
All of those wildlife shots are simply amazing!
Thank you Chris
Oh wow, the photos are absolutely amazing! You were so lucky to see the tiger so close. We went to Kruger Park in South Africa but we weren’t lucky enough to take such great photos! Unbelievably stunning!
Thanks Flavio. While you might not have been lucky with the shots, I would say you were lucky to witness them in their own homes. That itself is a treat.
Fun way to present your experience! I loved the photos; they are stunning! Especially the one of the spotted dear leaping!
Thanks Tami. It was an absolute pleasure to write this post and capture them all…
Wow this sounds like an awesome place to visit. We’d love to meet Bajrang, and hear more of his stories :-). Seeing them up close must have been so thrilling. We’ll have to check this place out for sure.
I do hope you get here soon…Bajrang would love to meet you 😀
This would be a cool visit if I too can spot the elusive tigers 🙂
Great captures.
Thank you Indrani.
I’ve done safari in Kenya, but never India. To see a tiger in the wild would be amazing.
The forests here are quite different and I definitely would recommend trying a few tiger reserves here. They are just beautiful.
I would love to.
Loved the narration from the tiger 🙂 Have got to agree, there are hardly any other national parks in India that can match the Kanha National Park, no wonder these are the proud residents of the national park. Loved your pictures too. With the travel tips that you have summarized at the end (something I have learnt from you), it will be easy to plan a trip to this wonderland.
Thanks Neha. Kanha was quite special. Glad I managed to go.
Looks like a beautiful place to visit! What a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings. You must have been thrilled!
ooh yes, the sights and the sounds within were just amazing. I was thrilled alright
It is my favourite after Kaziranga. A perfect escapade to nature. Luckily we spotted a
tiger. The safari ride is really beautiful. It gives a thrill to realize that you are in the land of the Jungle Book and expect to sight the characters anytime!
You bet …it is just like Jungle book. Glad you too, had a good time here.
Sounds like an awesome place. I really want to travel there! Your pictures are great!
Thank you Paulina. Hope you manage a trip here. It is fantastic.
The wildlife is fascinating. I haven’t been to any outside my country as I often stay in the city. How far is Kerala from here, by the way?
Kerala must be around 2 hours by flight from here :D. Are you planning to visit?
Would love to!!
Plan for it. 🙂
I love the narration of the tiger and how he sees the “lines of humans waiting in jeeps” to enter the park in the morning. I have never been to a safari before and I have never seen tigers in the wild. What an experience that must be! By the way, unrelated to your text, I have the same blue scarf as you, bought in the bazaar from New Delhi! 🙂
Thanks Joanna. The tiger does have his own perspective and needs to be heard :). The Blue pashmina is lovely, isn’t it? I got mine from Jaipur
Beautiful photos. These are the kinds of parks one would visit knowing the fauna is protected, and not on display purely for amusement. As much as I like going to zoos in major urban centers around the world, I have to say I feel sad that they’re there in captivity. I commend the Indian people for this conservationist initiative.
Thanks Milosz. There have been several parks done in India and this is one of them. I do hope you visit them in India.
I have never been to India, unfortunately, but I would love to visit sometime soon. And I will keep this place in mind – I have never heard of it before, but of course India is a big country. Thank you for sharing!
Yes, India is huge and I do hope you take out some time for our sanctuaries. It is a different experience 🙂
Amazing photography! Seems like you have had a great time at Kanha National Park. I haven’t visited it yet but it’s definitely on my wildlife bucket list. Morning safaris are the best to take and no wonder you opted for it 🙂
Morning safaris are definitely the best but it is really cold as you can see 😀 Brave it and the rewards at the end of it are good!
This has some impressive statistics. Biggest and most tourist friendly park in India! You got some great tiger shots here, I’m jealous!
Thank you. Kanha is quite a popular haunt for wildlife enthusiasts in India. I think you should get here soon.
Great sights… good to finally get a glipse of Bajrang…
A lot of national parks tend to disappoint in terms of animal sightings. But Kanha seems to offer a better deal.
I guess, I was just lucky. Not many people got to see tigers that day.
Amazing post! cool photos!! thanks for sharing.
Thank you.
Love you storytelling. You did such a cute job anthropomorphizing the critters you took pictures of. It would be easy to say. this is one…. that is another but you took it to a great person level. Good job.
Thank you Jenn. Glad you enjoyed the narration.
I love that you are telling the story from the mouth of the tiger. I was lucky enough to see a wild behalf tiger in the Sandeban National Park in the North East of India. It was an amazing (if some what brief) experience.
It looks like you had a great day and saw many interesting animals.
Thank you Kathy. I was just lucky that day to have spotted Bajrang. 🙂
Wow, this looks like an absoutely amazing experience! I love going on safaris, however only been to them in Africa! Going in India seems like a real experience not many get to do, especially when searching for Tigers!
Your photos are also breathtaking and such amazing quality! Makes me want to book a flight and travel there! Happy Travels!
Not many know that India has lot of wildlife to offer. It is quite different from the grasslands of Africa. You should come by and experience it.
Your storywriting is incredible. Tigers are such majestic creatures, and getting up close like this is truly a privilege! I’m a but wildlife fan but never experienced something like this. To see these animals in their habitat is a dream. I love the shot of the spotted deer leaping.
Thank you Sam. Glad you enjoyed Bajrang’s story…it was fascinating to see things from his perspective 🙂
A trip to a tiger reserve – yes please! Wildlife viewing has always been one of my favorite things to do at national parks. It is such a great opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat.
It sure is….and it is fun spotting the other animals along the way. Thanks for stopping by
That is so cool! An interview with the tiger.. what a great opportunity! 🙂
Thank you. Bajrang was kind
I’ve been to India many times and I always want to see a tiger, but I’ve never made the trip yet. This is really inspiring me to do it! I also love how beautiful the tented accommodation looks, quite luxurious!
Thanks Gemma. Club Mahindra was good and comfortable. And quite close to Bajrang’s lair 😀
Love the wildlife you managed to capture on your beautiful photos! I am travelling to India myself fairly soon and trying to put together a rough itinerary. This safari would be a great way to experience some of the native animals. Reading about it of the tigers perspective was surprisingly enjoyable and I would recommend keeping at it. The travel tips in the end are a valuable source of information as well. Thanks!
Thanks Kreete. I hope you can include one wildlife reserve to your itinerary, it will be a good mix to your India tour. and am sure you will enjoy it too.
Wow, these photos are absolutely stunning. They make me want to visit immediately! I’ve spent quite a few months living in India but I didn’t make it to a national park quite like this with wild tigers and deer and such stunning scenery. It really shows how diverse India really is as a destination – cities, mountains, wildlife, it has everything!
Yes, India is a world of its own. Even we are finding it difficult to see it all. 🙂 Hope you make a trip back soon
I had so much fun reading this from the perspective of the tiger, Ami! What a fun way to write this post. Kanha National Park looks like a ton of fun, and now if I ever go, I am going to be thinking about everything from the perspective of the tigers haha! Thanks for the practical tips at the end too.
Ha ha . Bajrang was an interesting character. He will be pleased to note this. 🙂
I hope Mr.Bajrang can be spotted whenever I go there:). Lovely pics, I loved reading it!!
I am sure we will meet Mr. Bajrang with all his cronies. 🙂
You certainly had the full house in this Kanha trip, didn’t you. Seeing the tiger rounds it all up nicely. Its never quite the same level of contentment without the big cat, don’t you agree? We had similar stroke of luck in Bandhavgarh 🙂
Thanks Punita for dropping by. Your safari definitely needs to be completed with a glimpse of these guys. Glad you had a good sighting in Bandhavgarh.
Hi, Would like to reblog your blogs on my blog… how can i do it.
Unfortunately you cannot reblog these. However, you can give your audience a link to my site and they can get here and read it for themselves.
Thanks Ami
Thanks for sharing this wonderful information about kanha, I have visite tadoba national park and it was thrilling experience to see tigers in jungle.
I am hoping to do Tadoba this year. Thanks for stopping by
This blog is so nice, I love your flow of writing. I recently visit Gir National Park and was Planning Tadoba or Kanha this time. You blog has completely shifted my mind to Kanha National Park. Thank you for this amazing work!!
My pleasure Mark. I hope you have a good time 😀