04 Jul, 2025

Tourism Update: Kanha Tiger Reserve Records a Roaring High in Tourist Visits This Year!

Kanha isn’t just a park, it’s a living, breathing mosaic of nature, culture, and conservation. Kanha National Park stands as a crown jewel in India’s wildlife tourism. In 2025, the park witnessed a remarkable rise in footfall, drawing around 2,58,000 tourists, including approximately 2,500 foreign visitors, a surge of nearly 16,000 more tourists compared to the previous year. This steady growth not only underscores Kanha’s global appeal but also reflects the captivating wilderness and conservation success it offers. As the park enters its annual monsoon break, it's the perfect time to reflect on its thriving biodiversity, recent milestones, and what lies ahead in the upcoming tourist season for nature enthusiasts and wildlife seekers alike.

Park Closure & Reopening Schedule

Kanha National Park officially closed on 1st July 2025, marking the beginning of its annual monsoon break. Core zones (like Mukki, Kisli, Kanha, Sarhi) shut until 30 September, while buffer zones remain accessible year-round.
Regular weekly downtime also includes closures every Wednesday afternoon and during Holi in March.

Opening Windows & Safari Timings

The park reopens for tourists after the monsoon season, around mid-October, with the peak wildlife season extending from October to March.

Morning Safaris: Roughly 6:00–11:00 AM (slight seasonal adjustments)
Evening Safaris: Approximately 3:00–7:00 PM, depending on time of year.
Wednesday Closures: Park remains closed every Wednesday afternoon.

Tourist Footfall: Numbers that Roar

Total Visitors in 2025: Kanha National Park welcomed approximately 2,58,000 tourists, marking an increase of 16,000 visitors compared to the previous year.
Foreign Tourist Count: Out of the total, about 2,500 were foreign tourists, reflecting a continued interest from international wildlife enthusiasts.
Ranking in Madhya Pradesh: Kanha remains among the top wildlife destinations in the state, second only to Van Vihar in terms of overall footfall.

What Makes Kanha Magnetic?

Wildlife Diversity: Home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Barasingha, dholes, and hundreds of bird species.
Landscape Beauty: A blend of Sal forests, bamboo, vast grasslands, and pristine streams.
Cultural Initiatives: MPT is developing tribal cafeterias to promote regional cuisine and crafts within park premises.

Safari Zones & Core/Buffer Structure

Core Zones (4): Kanha, Kisli, Mukki, and Sarhi - closed in monsoon.
Buffer Zones (4): Khatia, Khapa, Sijhora, Phen - open year-round.
Reserved Areas: Off-limits to tourists, focused on wildlife protection.

Best Time to Visit

Prime Season: Between October 15 and June 30

October–March: Ideal weather, increased tiger sightings.

March–May: Sparse foliage makes animal spotting easier

Avoid Monsoon: Park remains inaccessible from July to September due to rains.

Kanha National Park is a living, breathing testament to India’s conservation success, blending riveting wildlife, cultural heritage, and seasonal allure. With safety closures during the monsoon and massive visitor interest through the year, it’s essential to plan carefully. If you're chasing a tiger through Mukki, basking in tribal artistry, or soaking in serene grasslands, October through June is your golden window. As gates reopen on 1 October 2025, prepare early, safari slots fill fast.