Wildlife adventure tourism in Central India

Wildlife adventure tourism in Central India

Wildlife tourism in India has its own place in world wildlife adventure tourism map. India is a vast country with good natural heritage including national parks, tiger reserves, reserve and protected forests as well as areas not so well protected but having very good tourism potentials. Wildlife adventure tourism in India includes tiger safari, bird watching, jungle walks and allied tourism activities. Most of the nature and wildlife tourism in the country is through its tiger reserves where tourists from all over the world visit to spot free roaming wild tigers and other wild animals in their natural habitat. India has some good tiger reserves in almost all states be it Kashmir in the north, Kerala in the south, Rajasthan in the east or Orissa in the western part. Out of all these the best place is certainly the central part with the state of Madhya Pradesh leading the wildlife tourism baton in the country.

Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has some best managed and most frequented tiger reserves of the country including Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna and Satpura national parks and tiger reserves. These and other destinations around them are also good bird watching sites in India and certainly one of the best places to enjoy a quiet holiday with nature. With Kanha and Bandhavgarh being at the helm of tourism Pench, Panna and Satpura are fast catching up the tourism graph.

Kanha National Park, Tigers eyes

Kanha national park:

One of the best managed tiger reserves in India, Kanha forests are famous for not only spotting the striped cat but also Hard ground swamp deer or Barasingha as it is locally known as, one of the rarest deer species in the world. Spread over 940 Sq Kms, with predominantly Sal and Bamboo forest and meadows Kanha is on top of list for any natural history fan and wildlife photographer. You can visit Kanha national park to see 22 species of mammals, 259 species of birds, 117 species of butterflies and many other flora and fauna. With more than 1000 flowering species of flora Kanha is also a treat for people mainly interested in the green cover of the earth.

Kanha has a very well developed tourism infrastructure and caters to need of luxury and budget tourists alike. Some of the best places to stay in Kanha include KanhaVillage Eco Resort, Flame of the Forest, Chitwan Jungle Lodge, Banjar Tola (Tajsafari), Kipling camp, Singinawa jungle lodge,Tiger corridor by Tuli and Kanha earth lodge for luxury and mid luxury segment tourists. Budget accommodation in Kanha includes Kanha Eco Lodge, Koushalya Resort, Mahua Tiger Resort, Baghira log huts, Tourist hostel (Kisli) and Kishkindha Safari lodge amongst others.

 

Butterfly in Kanha natonal park

 Bandhavgarh national park:

Well known amongst tiger enthusiasts as a tiger reserve with highest density of Tigers per Sq. Kms., Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is one of the most visited national parks within wildlife buffs and photographers alike. Bandhav garh gets its name from the fort of Bandha, once under the Royal family of Rewa. It is one of the oldest known inhabited places in central Indian history where archeological surveys has unearthed relics dating back to thousands of years. Once royal hunting grounds of Maharaja of Rewa, today it is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, thanks to the royal family. Spread over 105 Sq. Kms.  its topography varies between steep ridges, undulating, forest and open meadows. With 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds, Bandhavgarh forests are best known for its biodiversity and spotting Tigers.

This white tiger country as it is also known as (Since first wild white tiger cub – Mohan, was caught here by Maharaja Martand Singh ji) has excellent tourism infrastructure with good alternative for all budgets. Mahua Kothi (Taj safaris), Tiger garh, Syna tiger resort, Tree house hideaway, Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhav Villas, Hotel Monsoon Forest  and Maharajas Royal Retreat are some premium properties catering to luxury tourists. For mid segment and budget tourists TheWildflower resort, Tiger trails, Green woods, Wild Haven, Mrigvan resorts, and Tiger Trails Resort are good choice.  
 

Wildlife in Central India

Pench national park:

Spread over 299 Sq. Kms. of dense forest Pench Tiger reserve is located towards the southern boundary of Madhya Pradesh. Most of the park is covered with dry deciduous forests and is situated around River Pench with predominantly Teak forest.  With 39 known species of mammals, 13 species of reptiles, 210 species of birds and many other small and big living beings this is one of the best tiger country in Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Flora in Pench national park includes around 1200 flowering species of trees, shrubs and bushes.

Tourism infrastructure in Pench is very well developed thanks to its proximity to Nagpur (Maharashtra) and Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh). Some of the best accommodation in Pench include Baghvan (Taj Safari), Jungle home Pench, Tuli Tiger Corridor and Pench Jungle camp. For budget and mid segment options V Village resort, Tiger N Wood Resort and Tribal Camp Resort are the best.

Pug mark of Tiger - Wildlife excursion in Central India

Panna national park:

Famous for the wrong reason of once losing all the wild Tigers to poaching, Panna has bounced back to tiger conservation and tourism map again due to hard work and dedication of forest department of Madhya Pradesh and field staff of this spectacular tiger reserve. Once royal hunting grounds of royal families of Panna, Chatterpur and Bijawar this park has seen a lot of ups and downs in its time. Ken River, home to Indian Ghariyal flows through the forest presenting some stunning scenery on its way. With 543 Sq. Kms of core area this tiger country attracts lots of bird (around 200 known species) and has 19 known species of mammals including otters. It is a very good breeding ground for vultures and yearly vulture estimation is attended by many birding enthusiasts and volunteers.

Tourism infrastructure in Panna is not very well developed since most visitors prefer to stay at nearby temple town of Khajuraro. Some of the good places to stay in Panna national park include Pashan Garh (Tajsafaris), Sarai at Toria, Ken River Lodge, Panna Tiger Resort, Jewel of Jungle and forest rest house.

Wild cat in Central Indian national parks

Satpura national park

A bio diversity hot spot, one of the biggest tiger reserves of central India, Satpura national park covers an area of 1427 Sq. Kms. including Bori wildlife sanctuary and buffer zone. Famous hill station of Madhya Pradesh – Pachmarhi falls under this beautiful national park. With many still unlisted species of plant species Satpura boasts of more than 1300 flowering species with many of them having medicinal use. Here tourists can spot 29 mammal species, almost 190 butterfly species and many reptiles, birds and other big and small living beings. Falling under Satpura mountain ranges, landscape of Satpura forests is very diverse. A hotspot for photography enthusiasts and natural history educationists this is one of the least visited of all national parks in Madhya Pradesh but has one of the best biodiversity of all others.

Tourists planning to visit Satpura national park can stay in forest guest houses or at hotels and resorts in Pachmarhi. Some good accommodation in Satpura includes Forsyth lodge, Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Denwa backwater escapes and Madhai wildlife resort.  

Bird watching in Central Idnia

Madhya Pradesh has many other and some of the finest natural sites of tourism interests including bird sanctuaries, reserve forests and national parks but most of them do not have good tourism infrastructure except basic accommodation being provided by the forest department. Tourism along River Narmada is a very thrilling one and needs very meticulous planning but is full of adventure and experience you will not get anywhere else. When planning a wildlife tour to Madhya Pradesh do check all the options and plan your trip with keeping any of above national park as your base. For any help or guidance writer can be contacted or good travel tour makers can also help in preparing a tailor made package as per your requirement.



Note (Disclaimer): Suggestions of hotels / resorts in national parks of Madhya Pradesh is as per my own choice and is not a recommendation nor is the author responsible or liable in any way if guests stay at any of above refferred accommodations is not good.

Kanha National Park - Information and FAQ

FAQ – Kanha National Park & Tiger Reserve

Map of Kanha National Park and Tiger Reserve

• What is Kanha National Park?
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  Kanha National Park is a protected forest and designated tiger reserve spread over more than 2000 Sq. Kms. (including core and buffer area) of dense Sal and Bamboo forest. It is one of the best managed national parks of India and famous for seeing Tigers and other denizens of jungle. Hard ground Barasingha found here is endemic to kanha landscape.
• Where is Kanha Tiger Reserve located?
• Situated in Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha falls in Satpura Maikal Landscape, spread over Mandla and Balaghat districts of the state adjoining Chattisgarh.
• What can we do at Kanha?
• Kanha forests are famous for jungle safari on 4x4 open Gypsy to see Tiger and other wildlife. It is the best place to enjoy the pristine forests of central India, bird watching, wildlife photography, wellness – Yoga / meditation tours or just for a relaxing holiday with family and friends. Interested people can visit Medicinal Plantation Conservation Area to enjoy the floral diversity of this world renowned forest reserve.  
• When should we visit Kanha?
• Kanha national park is open for tourism between 16^th of October till 30^th of June every year. For tourists who want to visit the core area on jeep safari should visit in this time only but for avid nature lovers and people who want to relax or do Yoga / Meditation or wellness tour it is open for whole 12 months.
• Wildlife photographers and nature lovers should plan a trip in all seasons to enjoy this beautiful jungle. All seasons have their own advantages and disadvantages like in summers it’s very hot and dry here but wildlife sightings and visibility is better and in monsoon season although you may not be able to enter the core area but its great time to photograph reptiles, butterflies and other insects along with some mammals which come out in buffer region as well as enjoy the floral diversity.
• Wildlife lovers should try to avoid peak tourism season like Dusshera, Dipawali, Christmas, New Year and long weekends.
• In general October to mid December and mid February to mid May are best time to visit.
• Which is best season to visit Kanha, MP?
• As I told above, all seasons have their advantages and disadvantages. Family tours are best planned between October and April. November, February, March and April are best season at Kanha when evenings and nights are very pleasant. These months suit almost all tourists.
• Kanha has extreme climate so its very hot in summers (max. temp 44 degrees centigrade), cold in winters (minimum temperature can drop to -2 degrees centigrade) and rains heavily in monsoon.
• Kanha national park is closed for safari from 1^st July to 15^th October.
• How will be the weather at Kanha National Park?
• Kanha has extreme and tropical climate with January being the coldest and May / June hottest months.
• Are Central Indian tiger reserves tourists friendly?
• All tiger reserves and national parks of central India including Kanha and Bandhavgarh have very good tourist infrastructure. They have facilities suiting all budgets and can be reached very comfortably in taxi / cab. National parks have some do’s and don’ts which all tourists should follow. Many hotels have facilities for special needs of tourists and medical facilities are available within 50 Kms of most tiger reserves. But, we suggest that guests should carry their medicines and prescriptions with them always.
• What languages are used at Tiger preserves of MP?
• At almost all tiger reserves in MP including Kanha and Bandhavgarh national park English and Hindi are widely spoken. Some accommodation facilities also have other language guides / interpreters available but they are few. If you want a particular language guide confirm with your accommodation provider about availability.
• What are other destinations we can cover along with Kanha?
• When visiting Kanha on holiday you can plan visiting Bandhavgarh tiger reserve, Pench tiger reserve, Satpuda national park, pachmarhi (hill station), Jabalpur, Rewa, Khajuraho (temples), Panna national park, Orcha, Amarkantak, etc., It is best to plan how many days tour you want to make and finalize accordingly. We suggest all national parks in central India should be given 3 night / 4 days and minimum 2 parks should be covered. A 14 night 15 days tour package can cover almost all important tourist destinations of central India.
• What should be minimum duration of stay at Kanha National Park?
• We suggest a minimum 3 night stay at Kanha with 3 safaris and 2 jungle walks to enjoy this beautiful forest to its best.
• Should we book tiger safari package through agent or directly?
• Both the options are good depending on how you prefer to make your holiday plan. If you have enough time available and can plan personally that is always the best or else you can take pre made packages from any tour operator. If visiting national parks of Madhya Pradesh most accommodation providers here will be able to help you in your plans along with safari booking and transportation and make a tailor made package for you. Budget is a big consideration when planning as pre made and group departure packages are comparatively economical to tailor made / FIT packages. 
• How are safaris planned?
• 2 safaris are available every day one from sunrise and one at after noon. There is a break of 3 to 4 hours between both safaris.
• Safari timings depend on season and can be changed if required.
• How can we book tiger safari entry permit?
• Safari entry permits in central Indian forests are best booked through MP Online portal and can be booked directly or through tour operator / wildlife lodge where you are staying. 
• You can also book your safari entry permit through registered MP Online kiosks or at the entry gate of tiger reserve.
• Jungle safari is off for Wednesday afternoon in all national parks in Central India.
• Remember to carry your original photo ID to show at the entry point without which you can be denied admission. 
• What is zone system for safaris?
• Kanha tiger reserves tourism is divided into 4 zones namely Kanha, Kisli, Sarhi and Mukki. One safari entry ticket can take you to any one of above zones only. To visit a specific zone you need to book safari entry permit of the same zone or else you will not be permitted to enter the required zone.
• How to get a guide / naturalist to accompany for safari?
• Once your entry permit for safari has been booked you need not worry since you get vehicle and guide both at the main entrance of the national park. As such you are not allowed to enter the park without a registered guide who are trained by the forest department and made available on payment of small fees.
• If you need a English speaking naturalist ask your accommodation provider and they should be able to arrange one. Most good hotels and resorts in Kanha have their own naturalists who accompany the guests if requested for.
• Can I take my own vehicle for jungle safari?
• Only registered vehicles are permitted to take guests for safari in the tiger reserve. You can get a vehicle through the wildlife lodge you are staying with at Kanha or ask for same at the main entry gate.
• How many people are allowed in one vehicle?
• One Gypsy is allowed to take maximum 6 guests along with one guide and one driver.
• Children above the age of 5 years are counted and below 5 are allowed free.
• Can safari ticket be cancelled / rescheduled?
• Once safari entry ticket has been booked it cannot be rescheduled but only cancelled.
• On cancellation of safari permit after deduction of cancellation charges the refund amount is directly sent to your bank account by MP online. 
• What is elephant safari / Tiger shows?
• Elephant safari is a good way of enjoying the forest as they take you inside deep forests whereas when on Jeep you have to remain on designated road route. But, we suggest not taking the elephant safaris since these psychederm should be used for patrolling the tiger reserve and not for tourism purpose.
• Tiger shows were available earlier where after payment of a small amount you were taken on elephant back to show a tiger spotted by the Mahouts while patrolling the forests. This has been banned for in all central Indian forests till further orders.
• What clothing is best for jungle tourism?
• Always try to dress in subtle / forest colours as this will help you in camouflage and increase the chances of animal sighting. It is best to avoid bright colours like red, blue, violet, etc.
• When visiting in winters do carry enough woolens since temperature can drop down to -2 degrees centigrade at times. If visiting February onwards do carry a light woolen jacket / wind cheater as mornings and late evenings can be cold till mid April.
• What animals can we see at Kanha?
• • Kanha is full of biodiversity and still we do not know how many living beings use it as their home. Till now we have count of 22 mammals, 249 birds, 117 butterflies and other small and big once who play an integral role in natural management of this reserve. With Tiger on the top of tourist list we can see Leopard, Wild Dogs, Jackal, Hyena, Fox, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Sambhar Deer, Barking Deer, Blue Bull, etc. One of the most endangered of Deer species – Swamp Deer or Hard Ground Barasingha found here is endemic to Kanha and not found anywhere else in the wild. 
  • Further information about Kanha park and its fauna can be checked at: http://www.kanhavillage.com/kanha_national_park 
• How is bird watching at Kanha reserve?
• • Kanha has more than 249 known species of birds. Bird watching here can be done in the core area by Gypsy safari or in the buffer region on foot. When planning a bird safari tour to Kanha do keep in mind to include a minimum of 4 to 5 bird watching treks in buffer area along with 3 to 4 core area safaris to see maximum numbers of these flying wonders.  Do carry a good pair of binocular and bird guide book if you are interested in Birding. Your accommodation provider will be able to arrange a good naturalist for you on payment of a small amount of fees. 
  
  
  

  

  
  
• Which hotels resorts are best for stay at kanha?
• • Kanha has a well developed tourism infrastructure although not very well planned as far as sustainability is concerned. Guests can get accommodation ranging from INR 500/- to upward of INR 20,000/- and more per day so you have wide choice to make from.
• • We will suggest going in for hotels or resorts where the management is keen about its social responsibility and cares for local landscape and biodiversity. A herculean task to search between more than 65 accommodation providers here but looking into sustainable tourism concepts this is important.
• • We suggest Kanha Village Eco Resort, Flame of the Forest, Singinawa, Kipling camp, Indian Adventure, Taj – Banjar Tola, Courtyard House and MP forest department rest houses.
• What budget should we keep in mind for kanha visit?
• When visiting Kanha you can get accommodation ranging between INR 500/- to 20,000/- per day stay part depends on your choice.

• Food here is a bit expensive since most of the farm produce here is costly and other ingredients are bought from cities and towns as far as 250 Kms from here so it may cost around INR 600/- per person per day and more depending on where you eat at road side eatery or a star hotel.
• • Safaris are the most costly of all each safari to premium kanha zone costs around INR 5000/- and in other 3 zones kisli, sarhi and mukki it is around INR 4500/-. This cost includes entry permit fees, gypsy charges, guide charges, safari facilitation charges and any taxes thereon. At some places you are charged higher amount than finalised by MP Tourism as per accommodation providers rules. 
  • Safari cost for foreign nationals is higher and it comes to around INR 7000/- for Kanha zone and INR 5500/-  for Kisli, Sarhi and Mukki zone. 
• Is kanha a safe destination?
• • In last few years we have not heard of any major unpleasant incident in or around the national park and you will find most people here to be very tourist friendly and helpful.
• I want to do wildlife photography, what suggestions do you have for me?
• Wildlife photography has catched up in last few years and we see a lot of young people interested in it. This particular genre of photography is not easy and needs costly equipments which alone will not suffice. The most important factor is to understand wild animals well, anticipate their move and be ready to click at any moment. Kanha is a famous destination within the wildlife photographers fraternity and many famous once have clicked some of their best shots here.

• To be more Kanha specific, if you are serious about wildlife photography remember there should be maximum 4 members in a gypsy vehicle and preferably all should be photographers or should understand the importance of patience. Carry lenses of up to 400 mm for mammals and 600 mm for birds and a sturdy tripod. Tell your driver and guide about your interest well in advance or else like general tourists you will be running around the park for the stripped cat only and miss many a good photographic opportunities. Drive slowly and keep a good watch. Carry extra battery and storage capacity for your photographs. I suggest you should take photographs in highest possible resolution.
• One of the most beautiful features of forests is its small living beings like reptiles, insects, butterflies, etc. Do carry a macro lens along to take photographs of these neglected but equally significant, beautiful and colorful once.
• • Cover all the tourism zones of the park and do not forget to take some landscape shots to complete your portfolio. Keep your gear always ready and within reach.
• Is kanha children / family friendly?
• • Yes, Kanha is a good destination to cover with children and family. This is one of the best places to let your children enjoy the natural heritage of our country, understand its importance and learn to respect the biodiversity our country has to offer. Just keep in mind Kanha has extreme climate so plan your trip keeping this in mind.
• What should we carry when visiting Central Indian jungles?
  

  • Medicine is the first and most important thing you need to pack as Kanha, Bandhavgarh and most other tiger reserves are in dense forest area far from cities so it is difficult to get specific medication prescribed.

  
  

  • To enjoy this tiger reserve to its best do carry a guide book, list of flora and fauna seen here, a good binocular and a camera along with clothing as per season.

• How to reach Kanha National Park?
  

  • Kanha tiger reserve can be reached from Jabalpur (165 Kms via Mandla), Nagpur (260 Kms via Seoni – Nainpur - Chraidongri), Raipur (250 Kms via Chilpi - Baihar) and Gondia (--- Kms). All these places are well connected with road and rail network. Jabalpur, Nagpur and Raipur are also connected by Air with major cities in India.
• What are the rules and regulations of visiting the park?
• You can get a copy of rules from the forest department if required. Most hotels and resorts in Kanha will be able to provide a copy of same. Check code of conduct for national parks here: http://www.kanhavillage.com/code-of-conduct
• Remember to follow the rules, Do’s and Don’ts carefully if you want to enjoy your jungle ride.
• Guide and driver of vehicle you take for safari will be able to tell you of all rules. Please follow them carefully as these have been made keeping your safety and maximum enjoyment of the forest as well as safety of wild animals in mind.
• Always remember you are visiting the wild animals in their home so follow the rules of the jungle always.
  
  

We have tried to cover most frequently asked questions which cross tourists mind when planning a visit to any Tiger reserve in Central India with prime focus on Kanha reserve. Still if you have any query feel free to contact me at info@kanhavillage.com and we will be very happy to help.

Some detailed information about flora and fauna and geography of Kanha national park and tiger reserve can also be checked at our website www.kanhavillage.com. 

Spotting Tiger in Central Indian Tiger Reserve of Kanha

 You can also visit other national parks and tiger reserves around Kanha like Bandhavgarh, Pench, Tadoba and Satpuda national parks as well as places like Jabalpur, Pachmarhi, Rewa and other tourist destinations of Madhya Pradesh. If you need any help regarding planning your tour package or need information about tourism in central India we will be very happy to help. 

What can you do at Kanha?

What can you do at Kanha?

Kanha National Park is spread over 2000 Sq. Kms including core and buffer forest area. One of the best managed Tiger reserves of India, it is visited by tourists from all over the world to enjoy wildlife safari, spot tiger and other free roaming animals in their natural habitat. With most of the hotels at Kanha and tour operators, selling tiger safari packages people tend to miss that this one of the most beautiful forests of central India has so much more to offer.

Visiting Kanha tiger reserve only to see the big cat is, I personally feel, the biggest blunder any tourist can make. But, due to dearth of information about other activities and attractions around Kanha I will certainly say it is not the tourists fault since the accommodation providers, wildlife tour operators as well as tourism department does not provide detailed information.  Most tour packages for Kanha National Park only have tiger safari options. Here I present a list of activities and attractions which most of the resorts at Kanha and wildlife lodges at Kanha will be able to help you with.

Tiger Safari: Certainly the most famous activity for this world famous national park. It is conducted in two parts morning and noon wherein tourists visit the core area in 4 x 4 Gypsy vehicles. Safaris are conducted on designated zones and roads with a guide provided by the forest department.

Elephant Safari: A very good way to see the dense forest where your safari Gypsy cannot take you due to lack of roads is on elephant back. But, I personally am against this since we need the elephants for patrolling and not joy rides so best avoided as there are other better ways of exploring the forest like – on foot.

Jungle Walk: Tiger reserve management has made few pathways in the buffer area of tiger reserve where you can take a walk with help of a guide which is made available on payment of a small amount at the Khatia / Mukki entry gate. I will suggest – sacrifice a safari for it and you will never regret your decision. Here you will be able to enjoy the forest more, see those small things which we normally miss sitting on a safari vehicle and certainly be able to appreciate the bio-diversity in much better way. Guide fees of 200/- has to be paid at the ticket counter including which the total cost comes to around 750/- per group of 6 people.

Bird Watching: Kanha forest has more than 280 bird species which can be seen inside and outside the core area. Different species of birds choose different type of forests from open to scrub to dense or grass land. Every season has its own advantage like in winters many migratory birds visit this area but some locals one migrate to further southern region and come back in summers. Near water body or around it is the best area to see birds. You can visit the core area to see those flying wonders that prefer dense forests and take walks in the buffer area to appreciate ones which do not hesitate of humans. Check list of birds in Kanha is available and can be purchased at local store or downloaded from www.kanhavillage.com.

Wildlife Photography: One beautiful photograph can change heart of so many making them fall in love with nature and wildlife converting them in to conservationists. Today wildlife nature photography as a hobby is catching up very fast amongst our younger generation and why not, it is one of the best ways to appreciate our natural heritage and wildlife. When at Kanha you can take wildlife safari in the core forest as well as walks in the buffer area to do photography. Here I would certainly request that always keep photography ethics in mind and do not ever force your guide or driver in any way to break any rule just to take one unusual photograph. 

MPCA visit: Medicinal Plantation Conservation Area (MPCA) located near village Boda Chhapri, in buffer of Kanha Tiger Reserve is one place you should visit to see the diverse plant species found in Kanha landscape. Here you will be able to observe some of those rare herbs which are used in traditional medicines and are even raw material for modern medicine. Ask your accommodation provider in Kanha to arrange a local Vaidya or Ojha who will be able to describe in detail about all trees and herbs you see and tell about its medicinal properties. This costs around Indian Rupees 750/- to 1000/- per group of 6 people.  

Tribal village visit: Plan to visit one of those Baiga villages around Kanha to see how the actual guardians of central Indian forests used to live. Baiga tribal are one of the oldest inhabitants of our forests and understand the local biodiversity as the back of their palm. One of the most famous of them was Late Manglu Baiga about whom we hear stories that how he has helped officers earn their Doctorate degrees but he himself always remained what he was from the first day, a true nature warrior and lover of Kanha’s vast natural heritage. Although modern world and influx of tourists has certainly changed their life style to certain extent but visiting a Baiga village has its own appeal.

Yoga and Meditation: Today’s demanding life sucks out all life juice from our mind and body. Just sit back and relax under any tree enjoying the beautiful natural heritage around, listening to the music of nature, reading a book, making a painting or sketch. Believe me even though resorts in Kanha do not offer it but this is one of the best activity and least harmful for our forests. If a group of people are planning they can take a Yoga or spiritual guru along and take full advantage of calm atmosphere of Kanha.

Rejuvenation and wellness: Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere around Kanha is one of the best places to rejuvenate and re-energize your mind and body. Hotels in Kanha can arrange massage for guests which along with jungle walks, swimming and simple food can help a lot. Although we do not have specialized spa and wellness resorts at Kanha but facility for same can be arranged by many.

Star gazing: ‘Twinkle Twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are’ – we all have heard of this beautiful poem sometimes or other. In cities we do not see those twinkles due to lighting all around, pollution and Television. At Kanha you can sit out with all lights shut off and see the stars and constellations, remembering those good old times when you were young and so fascinated by those diamonds in the sky and lady on the moon.

Kanha national park is in Mandla district with its head quarters just 45 Kms from Khatia. Interested people can see Fort and Palace of Gond kings, some old temples or take a dip in holy river Narmada. There are a few souvenir shops in Kanha where you can purchase items made by local tribal and villagers for your loved and dear ones.  

Before I forget, one activity which I like the most when at Kanha, forget all your work, just give time to your other half and try to understand him / her better. Take a stroll with her / him while birds singing in the background provide perfect musical romantic mood and trees ideal ambience.

Come Celebrate Nature Celebrate Life

Barking Deer - Kakad

Barking Deer – India Muntjac

So known for its bark like alarm call, Barking Deer or Indian Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), is short brownish deer species with tusk like upper canine teeth’s. Its alarm calls are a very reliable indicator of presence of any predator. Indian Muntjac is most wide spread of total 11 species of Muntjacs found in Asia.



Barking Deer or Indian Muntjac
(taken from walkthewilderness.net)

Characteristics

Barking Deer are very distinctive with their tusk like canine teeth which is used to defend itself. It has wide coloration range with Dark brown to yellowish or grey brown on dorsal, white on ventral side and slightly darker brown face. They have very short antlers of around 2 to 3 inches. They are around 20 – 25 inches tall and 40 – 55 inches long with male of the species bit taller than the females. Their weight ranges between 20 – 30 Kgs. Male Barking Deer have their separate territory and can be very aggressive against intrusion. They have a life span of 25 to 30 years.

Distribution and habitat

The Barking Deer can be seen in tropical and subtropical deciduous forests, grasslands, savannas, and scrub forests from sea level up to an altitude of 9600 feet in Himalayas. It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, etc. It is most densely located in Southeast Asia with Indian population estimated to be more than 1,30,000. Scrub forests and hilly tracts around forests and national park like Kanha, Corbett and Bandhavgarh are  good places to observe them where they can be spotted feeding at the edge of the forest or in abandoned clearings.

 

Ecology, Behavior and Food

Indian Muntjac prefers hilly areas with water in the vicinity. Omnivores in food habits they eat  grasses, prickly bushes, leaves, bark, twigs, fruit, seeds, tender shoots, eggs and small warm-blooded animals. They have also been seen eating on dead animals at times. Normally seen alone they have also been seen in groups of 3 – 5. A very cautious and shy animal which can be seen by the way it moves, one step at a time, ready to run away with slight hint of danger. Author has seen one Barking deer approaching almost 10 – 12 feet of where he was sitting motionless until his presence was given away by cloth movement due to sudden wind.

They prefer dense forest area to open grass land and can often be spotted on the fringe forests. Males mark their territory and defend it from other male which often leads to fighting.  They leave scent markers by rubbing their pre-orbital glands (located just below the eyes) on the ground and on trees and scraping the bark of trees with their lower incisors. I have often seen them visiting water holes in the evening for a quich sip.

Reproduction

Indian Muntjac does not have any specific breeding period. Female gives birth to a single fawn after a gestation period of 6 – 7 months. They chose a dense patch of forest for safety from predators. Young leaves the mother in 5 to 6 months to make its own territory.

Threats

Habitat destruction and poaching for its meat and hide are major problem behind its decline in population. Barking deer is killed by farmers when it raids the agriculture fields adjoining dense forest.

Conservation

Although barking deer is not in the endangered species list but in India its hunting is barred by law.

 

 

Checklist - Birds of Kanha

Check list of Birds - Kanha National Park

Here is a checklist of birds found in Kanha National Park and around. Bird watchers may be able to use and tick birds they see when visiting Kanha. If you want a copy you may get one from our resort in Kanha. I have not given scientific or local names here but common names only.

Gold mantled chloropsis

Jerdons Leaf Bird

Pied Starling
Jungle Myna
Spangled Drongo

White Bellied Drongo

Ashy Drongo

Black Drongo

Racket Tailed Drongo

Oriental Turtel Dove
White Rumped Shama

Yellow fronted Woodpecker

Brown Capped Pigmy Woodpecker
White Naped Woodpecker

Black rumped flameback

White Throated Flycatcher

Asian Borwn flycatcher

White Browed Flycatcher

Asian Paradise Flycatcher

Verditor Flycatcher

Black Naped Monarch

Black Hooded Oriole

Blyth's Reed Warbler

Clamarous Reed Warbler

Hume's Warbler

Golden Oriole

Booted Warbler
Sulphur Bellied Warbler

Common Iora

Greenish Warbler

Common Chiff Chaff

White Eyed Buzzard

Ultramarine Flycatcher

Indian Pitta

White Eye

Brown Headed Barbet

Crimson Breasted Barbet

Bronze Winged Dove

Painted Snipe

Common Snipe

Indian Silver Bill

Red  Avadavat

White Rumped Munia

Zitting Cisticola

Red Rumped Swallows

Wire Tailed Swallows

Eurasian Cuckoo

Black Headed Munia

Crested Tree Swift

Common Baya

Plain martin

Grey Francolin

Painted Francolin

Tickell's Flycatcher
Thick Billed Flycatcher

Red Breasted Flycatcher

Magpie Robin

Brown Cheeked Fulvetta

Painted Spurfowl

Red Spurfowl

Red Jungle Fowl

Oriental Honey Buzzard

Pallas Fish Eagle

Crested Serpent Eagle

Eurasian Marsh Harrier

Crested Hawk Eagle

Osprey

Long Billed Vulture

White Rumped Vulture

Egyptian Vulture

King Vulture

Shikra
Eurasian Sparrow Hawk

Common Kestrel

Spotted Dove

Ring Dove

Laughing Dove

Mottled Wood Owl

Barred Jungle Owlet

Brown Fish Owl

Spotted Owlet
Tawny Eagle Owl

Indian Eagle Owl

Indian Scops Owl

Yellow Fronted Green Pigeon

Orange Breasted Green Pigeon

Indian Scimitar Babbler

Tawny Babbler

Jungle Babbler

Purple Sunbird

Scarlet Minivet

Long Tailed Minivet

Small minivet

Rufous Treepie

Eurasian Wigeon

Northern Pintail

Lesser Adjutant Stork

Wooly Necked Stork

Chestnut Shouldered Petronia

Rose Ringed Parakeet

Common Kingfisher

Plum Headed Parakeet

Alexandrine Parakeet

Pied Kingfisher

Stork Billed Kingfisher

White Throated Kingfisher

Common Stonechat

Common Tailor Bird

Pied Stonechat

White Ibis

Plain prinia

Brown Rock Chat

Jungle Prinia

Ashy Prinia

Yellow Eyed Babbler

Little Cormorant

Glossy Ibis
Indian Cormorant

Brahminy Starling

Rosy starling

Yellow Wattled Lapwing

Red Wattled Lapwing

Eurasian Thicknee

Rufous Tailed Lark

Tree Pipit

Olive Backed Pippit

Chestnut Bellied Nuthatch

Malabar Pied Hornbill
Common Grey Hornbill

Barn Swallows

Chestnut Tailed Starling

Brown Shrike

Bay Backed Shrike

Long Tailed Shrike

Indian Robin

Large Cuckoo Shrike

Common Hawk Cuckoo

Grey Headed Canary Flycatcher

Shirkeer Malkoha

Lesser Whistling teals

There is a possibility that some names have been mis-spelled or serial number has gone wrong please do not mind the same. Hotels at Kanha may be able to provide a check list if available or else you can get a copy from shop at Khatia entrance of Kanha Tiger Reserve or one at the museum / canteen in Kanha zone.