TheeraYatra

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Weather: Pleasant winters, hot summers during peak safari season
Budget: ₹2,500–₹12,000/day (depending on safari and lodge choices)
Speciality: World-class tiger reserve with rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Jabalpur Airport, ~160 km from park entrances (Khatia/Mukki)
By Train: Jabalpur Junction and Gondia Junction connect to major cities; local transport to Mandla and then to Kanha gates
By Road: Well-connected via national and state highways from Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Raipur; state buses and private taxis available

Where to Stay?

Khatia Gate Area – Convenient for Kisli, Kanha, and Sarhi safari zones, with lodges and eco-resorts close to forest entry
Mukki Gate Area – Ideal for accessing Mukki zone, popular for tiger and wildlife sightings with mid-range to premium stays

Packing List

• Light cotton and breathable clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm jacket for early morning safaris
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Binoculars and good camera with zoom lens
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent

Top Places to Visit

Kanha National Park

One of India’s premier tiger reserves featuring dense sal and bamboo forests, open meadows, and valleys. The park is famous for Bengal tigers, barasingha (swamp deer), leopards, sloth bears, and rich birdlife. Early morning and evening jeep safaris offer wildlife viewing opportunities.

Banjar River Trail

A scenic riverside trail near the Banjar River, ideal for birdwatching, quiet walks, and sunset views amidst nature.

Khatia Forest Trail

A shaded forest trail near Khatia Gate that is great for guided nature walks to observe birds, butterflies, and smaller wildlife in the buffer zone.

Rata Sunset Point

A vantage point for panoramic views of the forest landscape during late afternoon and sunset. Good for photography and nature observation.

Phen Wildlife Sanctuary

A protected area in Mandla district serving as a biological corridor and buffer to Kanha Tiger Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna and nearly 200 bird species.

Must-Try Experiences

Jeep Safari in Multiple Zones

Book early morning or afternoon jeep safaris through popular zones like Kanha, Mukki, Kisli, and Sarhi to maximise chances of spotting tigers, deer, wild dogs, and other wildlife.

Village Cultural Walks

Explore local village life in the buffer zone, observe tribal art and daily routines, and interact with residents to understand local culture.

Birdwatching

Carry binoculars to spot resident and migratory bird species along trails, riverbanks, and forest edges throughout the park.

Nature Photography

Capture landscapes, wildlife, and forest scenes, especially during golden hours around sunrise and sunset for striking visuals.

Local Cuisine

Breakfast: Poha, jalebi, fresh tea from local stalls
Lunch: Dal, rice, roti, local vegetable curries
Snacks: Samosa, pakora, local sweets available at village stalls or resorts

Culture & Local Life

Located in Mandla district, the Kanha region is shaped by tribal traditions, forest-based lifestyles, and conservation-oriented tourism. Local markets and villages around Mandla offer insights into rural life and tribal art forms.

Local Insights

Languages: Hindi and local dialects widely spoken; some English in tourist centres
Getting Around: Local taxis and shared jeeps from Mandla to safari gates; most lodges provide transfers and safari arrangements
Safety Tips: Follow forest department guidelines during safaris, stay with authorised guides, and avoid wandering alone after dusk

Enjoy Your Yatra!