Kuno National Park

Kuno National Park: Where Nature Unfolds Its Majesty

Kuno National Park, also known as Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary, sprawls across the Sheopur and Shivpuri districts, encompassing a vast expanse of 74,200 hectares. Nestled on a lofty hill, this sanctuary offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The meandering Kuno River, from which the park derives its name, adds to the scenic beauty of the region.

Beyond its wildlife, Kuno National Park boasts the presence of the Kardhai tree, renowned for turning green with the onset of humidity, showcasing the park's resilience amid forest challenges.

The park has a historical connection with majestic lions that once roamed the area. In ancient times, this region was renowned for its dense forests and abundant wildlife. Today, Kuno National Park is celebrated not only for its wildlife diversity but also for hosting a significant number of bird species.

In a remarkable conservation effort, Kuno National Park stands as the sole national park in India with a population of cheetahs. Reintroduced as part of Project Cheetah, these incredible animals were brought back to India after more than 70 years. The park's commitment to wildlife conservation serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Cheetahs in Kuno National Park:

Cheetahs, known for their incredible speed and agility, were successfully reintroduced into Kuno National Park as part of Project Cheetah. Eight cheetahs were translocated from Namibia, and an additional 12 were successfully rehabilitated in Kuno.

Although tourists can't currently witness these majestic big cats, updates about their activities are eagerly anticipated.

Fauna of Kuno:

Kuno National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including Spotted Deer, Sambar, Blue Bull, Hyena, and numerous bird and reptile species.

Flora of Kuno:

The park showcases a unique blend of woodlands and flora, dominated by Kardhai, Salai, and Khair trees. The rich array of flora includes 123 tree species, 71 shrub species, 32 exotic and climbing species, and 34 bamboo and grass species.

Best Time to Visit:

Kuno National Park is open for tourism year-round, excluding the monsoon season. The ideal time to visit is between October and March, offering pleasant weather and a comfortable stay.

How to Reach Kuno:

- By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport, approximately 176 km away.
- By Rail: Shivpuri railway station is the closest, around 70 km. Other nearby railway stations include Gwalior, Jhansi, Kota, Jaipur, and Sawai Madhopur.
- By Road: Kuno is well-connected to cities like Shivpuri, Sawai Madhopur, Gwalior, Jhansi, Kota, and Jaipur.

Kuno National Park Safari Booking:

To ensure an immersive wildlife experience, it's advisable to book your safari in advance. You can make reservations through the official Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website (https://wildlifesafaritrip.com/), which provides a user-friendly booking system with various options for dates and times.