The Four Zones Of Kanha: Safari Adventures Await
Kanha National Park, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is one of the most well-managed tiger reserves in the country. The park is divided into four zones, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. Here's an overview of the four zones of Kanha National Park:
1. Kanha Zone:
- The Kanha Zone is the core area of the national park and is the most popular among visitors.
- It is known for its diverse landscapes, including dense sal and bamboo forests, open grasslands and water bodies.
- The iconic Kanha meadow, often depicted in Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book," is part of this zone.
- Key wildlife sightings in this zone include tigers, leopards, barasingha (swamp deer), Indian gaur (bison) and a variety of bird species.
2. Kisli Zone:
- The Kisli Zone is another prominent area for wildlife enthusiasts.
- It features mixed forests, grassy meadows and water bodies, providing varied habitats for different species.
- Barasingha, tigers, leopards and a variety of deer species are commonly spotted in this zone.
- The meadows in Kisli are known for hosting a large population of barasingha, also known as the hardground swamp deer.
3. Sarhi Zone:
- The Sarhi Zone is known for its picturesque landscapes and is less frequented compared to Kanha and Kisli.
- It offers a quieter safari experience with opportunities to spot tigers, leopards and a variety of deer and bird species.
- The Sarhi Zone is characterized by mixed forests and grassy clearings.
4. Mukki Zone:
- The Mukki Zone is famous for its diverse topography, including dense forests, plateaus and grassy meadows.
- It is home to a significant tiger population, and wildlife enthusiasts often choose this zone for safari experiences.
- Apart from tigers, one can encounter Indian gaur, sloth bears and various species of deer in Mukki.
Key Tips for Safari:
- Safaris in Kanha are typically conducted in open-top jeeps accompanied by experienced guides.
- Morning and evening safaris are offered to maximize wildlife sightings.
- The park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to mid-October).
Conservation Significance:
- Kanha National Park has played a crucial role in the conservation of the endangered barasingha.
- The successful relocation and breeding programs have contributed to the revival of the barasingha population.
Kanha's four zones collectively offer a comprehensive and immersive wildlife experience, making it a preferred destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and nature lovers. Each zone has its own charm and visitors often explore multiple zones to witness the diversity of flora and fauna that Kanha has to offer.