Kanha National Park extends across Mandla and Balaghat districts covering an area of about 949 km. It was divided into two parts or sanctuaries in 1939 – Hallon and Banjar.
Owing to the shrinking population of wildlife, this forest came to be recognized as a National Park and Tiger Reserve in 1955. It is a deciduous forest, abundant in Sal and Bamboo trees. This forest also houses some of the rarest species of animals.
The Kanha Forests had formed the very base for Rudyard Kiplings’ world famous story – Jungle Book. Some amongst the large variety of creatures found here are – White Tiger, Indian wild dog, Barasingha (found only in Kanha with only 69 left in this world), sloth bear, black bucks and leopards.
Several attempts are being made to raise the population of the rarest species here. These apart there are a large number of other mammalian species and birds, which make the Kanha National Park worth a visit.
A three-day stay allows a good chance to see all the rare species of animals and birds. Jeep and Elephant rides for visiting several parts of the forest are available with a day’s advance booking. The park remains closed during monsoon in July.