Delhi, the capital city of India, is located in the northern part of the country, while Kanha National Park lies in Madhya Pradesh, central India. Kanha is one of the largest and most famous tiger reserves in India, attracting wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts from across the country and abroad.

This route from Delhi to Kanha is popular among travelers seeking a wildlife adventure and a break from city life. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kanha National Park from Delhi, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical travel tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Kanha National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a common choice for those who want a comfortable and affordable journey to Kanha. The nearest major railway stations to Kanha are Jabalpur and Gondia, both well connected to Delhi.

• The train journey from Delhi to Jabalpur covers approximately 1,050 kilometers and takes around 14 to 18 hours depending on the train chosen, with fares ranging from INR 500 to INR 2,500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Popular trains include the Shaktinagar Express and the Gondwana Express, which run daily or several times a week, offering good availability but can get crowded during festivals and holidays.

• From Jabalpur railway station, Kanha National Park is about 160 kilometers away, accessible by taxi or bus, which takes around 4 to 5 hours through NH30 and NH43 highways.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC is recommended at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and summer vacations.

• Train travel is comfortable with options for meals on board, but monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on some routes.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to reach Kanha from Delhi, though the journey is long and requires multiple changes. State transport and private operators run buses connecting Delhi to nearby cities.

• Direct buses from Delhi to Jabalpur or Mandla (near Kanha) are limited; most travelers take buses to Jabalpur first, which takes about 18 to 22 hours covering over 1,000 kilometers.

• From Jabalpur or Mandla bus stations, local buses or taxis can be hired to reach Kanha National Park, which is about 30 to 50 kilometers away, taking 1 to 2 hours.

• MSRTC and MP State Road Transport Corporation operate buses on these routes, with fares ranging from INR 600 to INR 1,200 depending on bus type and class.

• Buses are frequent but can be crowded during national holidays and weekends; night buses are available but may be less comfortable for long journeys.

• Rest stops with food options are available on NH44 and NH30 highways, but travelers should carry water and snacks for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Kanha National Park offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes. The distance is about 1,100 kilometers and takes approximately 18 to 20 hours by car.

• The most common route is via NH44 and NH30, passing through cities like Agra, Jhansi, and Jabalpur, with several toll plazas along the way requiring cash or FASTag payments.

• Self-driving allows stops at rest areas, dhabas, and tourist spots like Bandhavgarh National Park or Pench National Park en route, enhancing the travel experience.

• Fuel stations are frequent on national highways, but it is advisable to fill up in major towns like Jhansi or Jabalpur to avoid long stretches without services.

• Road conditions are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches and occasional flooding on some stretches, so check weather updates before departure.

• Driving at night is possible but not recommended due to wildlife crossings and limited street lighting in rural areas.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach the region near Kanha National Park, but there is no airport in Kanha itself. The nearest airports are Jabalpur and Nagpur, both connected to Delhi by regular flights.

• Flights from Delhi to Jabalpur take about 1 hour 45 minutes, with fares ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Jabalpur Airport, Kanha National Park is approximately 160 kilometers away, accessible by taxi or rental car, taking around 4 to 5 hours on NH30 and NH43.

• Nagpur Airport is about 180 kilometers from Kanha and offers more flight options, including low-cost carriers, with a drive time of around 5 hours.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at both airports, but it is advisable to book a private cab in advance for a hassle-free transfer to Kanha.

• Flight schedules may be affected during monsoon or foggy winter mornings, so check for updates and plan buffer time for connecting road travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Kanha National Park, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance through IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats and get better fares.

• Pack light but include essentials like comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a water bottle to stay hydrated during wildlife safaris and road travel.

• Arrive at the Delhi railway station or airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check for platform or gate changes.

• On reaching Jabalpur or Nagpur, pre-book a taxi or use trusted local cab services to reach Kanha National Park safely, especially if arriving late in the day.

• Confirm your accommodation booking inside or near Kanha National Park in advance, as options fill up quickly during peak seasons and holidays.

• Carry some cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and buying snacks at roadside dhabas, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid or app-based taxis from railway stations and airports to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially when traveling alone or at night.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your trip to prevent stomach infections, and try local food at reputable hotels or dhabas to enjoy authentic flavors safely.

• Book train and bus tickets online through official portals like IRCTC and MSRTC to avoid scams and last-minute unavailability, especially during festival seasons.

• For local travel inside Kanha, hire authorized safari vehicles or guides to ensure a safe and informative wildlife experience while supporting local communities.

• Pack light luggage with easy-to-carry bags, as some accommodations and safari vehicles have limited storage space and rough terrain access.

• During monsoon (July to September), expect road delays and slippery trails inside the park; carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before planning safaris.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kanha National Park is between October and June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoon months bring heavy rains, making some roads and trails difficult to navigate.

Delhi experiences extreme summers and winters, so plan your departure time accordingly to avoid discomfort during travel. Early morning or late evening departures can help you avoid city traffic and heat.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi, as trains and flights are heavily booked and prices surge significantly.

• Winter fog in northern India during December and January may cause flight delays, so allow extra travel time if flying from Delhi.

• Monsoon rains can cause flooding and roadblocks on NH44 and NH30, so check weather and road conditions before starting your journey by car or bus.

• Departing early in the morning from Delhi helps you avoid peak city traffic and reach your destination with less fatigue.

Arrival at Kanha National Park & What to Expect

When you arrive near Kanha National Park, you will find limited public transport options, so pre-arranged cabs or hotel pickups are the best way to reach your accommodation. The park has several entry gates, with Mukki and Kisli being the most popular for safaris.

Local commute inside the park is mostly by authorized safari vehicles arranged through forest department or resorts. Nearby towns like Mandla and Jabalpur offer more accommodation and dining options if you prefer staying outside the park.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare inside the park area, so plan your last-mile travel carefully. Most hotels provide pick-up and drop services from nearby railway stations or airports, which is convenient for travelers unfamiliar with the region.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Kanha National Park is best done by train or flight combined with a taxi for the last leg, balancing comfort, cost, and travel time. Train journeys offer scenic views and affordability, while flights save time but require additional road travel from airports.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, choosing the right season, and arranging local transport will help you enjoy a hassle-free trip. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your wildlife adventure at Kanha, knowing the best routes and practical tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.