Kanha National Park is located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, known for its rich wildlife and beautiful forest landscapes. Mumbai, a bustling metropolis on the west coast, is a popular starting point for travelers heading to this famous tiger reserve.

This route is commonly traveled by nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience the park’s natural beauty. In this guide, you will learn the main transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival at Kanha National Park.

Getting from Mumbai to Kanha National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical way to reach Kanha National Park from Mumbai. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views and connects you to nearby railway stations.

• The nearest major railway stations to Kanha National Park are Jabalpur and Gondia, both well connected to Mumbai via several trains, including the Mumbai–Jabalpur Express and Mumbai–Gondia passenger trains.

• The train journey covers approximately 1,100 to 1,200 kilometers and takes around 18 to 24 hours depending on the train type and route, with fares ranging from INR 500 to INR 1,500 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Trains run frequently, but booking in advance through IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Stations like Jabalpur have good amenities, including waiting rooms and food stalls, while local transport options like taxis and buses are available for the onward journey to Kanha.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so plan accordingly if traveling between July and September.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and budget-friendly option for travelers who prefer road transport. State-run and private buses connect Mumbai to nearby towns close to Kanha National Park.

• Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and Madhya Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (MPRTC) operate buses from Mumbai to Jabalpur and Mandla, which are the closest towns to Kanha.

• The bus journey covers roughly 1,100 kilometers and takes about 22 to 26 hours, with fares typically between INR 700 and INR 1,200 depending on the bus type and operator.

• Volvo and deluxe buses provide more comfort and fewer stops, while ordinary buses are cheaper but crowded and slower, especially during festivals and weekends.

• Major bus depots in Mumbai like Dadar and Borivali have regular departures, and you can book tickets online or at the depot counters.

• Road conditions on National Highways NH 53 and NH 30 are generally good, but heavy rains in monsoon may cause delays and slippery roads.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Kanha National Park is ideal if you want flexibility and to explore en route. The route is scenic and passes through several towns and highways.

• The distance by road is about 1,100 kilometers via NH 53 and NH 30, taking approximately 20 to 22 hours of driving time without long stops.

• You can rent a car or self-drive, with several agencies in Mumbai offering vehicles suitable for long trips, including SUVs for rougher roads near Kanha.

• Popular rest stops include Dhule, Amravati, Nagpur, and Mandla, where you can find clean dhabas and restaurants serving local cuisine.

• Be prepared for toll plazas on NH 53 and NH 30, with toll fees totaling around INR 500 to INR 700 one way.

• Driving during early mornings or late evenings is not recommended due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossing risks near Kanha.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Kanha National Park from Mumbai, though it involves connecting flights and additional road travel to the park.

• The nearest airports to Kanha are Jabalpur Airport and Nagpur Airport, both serviced by daily flights from Mumbai operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

• Flight duration is about 1.5 to 2 hours, with fares ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 6,000 depending on booking time and airline.

• From Jabalpur or Nagpur airports, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Kanha National Park, which is approximately 160 km from Jabalpur and 230 km from Nagpur, taking 4 to 5 hours by road.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at both airports, but booking in advance is advised during peak seasons.

• Flight schedules can be affected by fog in winter months, so check weather updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Kanha National Park to make the journey smooth and stress-free.

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

• If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives in Jabalpur or Gondia during daylight hours for easier onward travel and safer local transport options.

• Arrange local transport from the railway station or airport to Kanha in advance, either through hotel pickups or trusted taxi services to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but include essentials like insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle for safaris and forest visits.

• Check weather forecasts before departure and carry appropriate clothing; monsoon rains can make roads slippery and wildlife sightings rare.

• Inform your accommodation in Kanha about your arrival time so they can assist with pick-up or guide you on the best routes to the park entrance.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and booking confirmations when traveling, as police checks are common on highways and at park entrances.

• Drink only bottled or purified water during your journey and avoid street food unless it is freshly cooked and from a clean vendor.

• Use official websites or trusted agents for booking tickets and accommodations to avoid scams and inflated prices.

• Within Kanha, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for local travel; avoid unlicensed vehicles for safety and fair pricing.

• Pack your luggage in sturdy bags and keep valuables close, as crowded trains and buses can be targets for pickpockets.

• During monsoon, check road conditions regularly and be prepared for delays; carry rain gear and waterproof covers for your bags.

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 more frequent. Monsoon months bring heavy rains that can disrupt travel and reduce visibility in the park.

Planning your trip outside major festivals and holiday seasons helps avoid crowded trains, buses, and accommodations, making your journey more comfortable.

• Avoid traveling during Diwali, Holi, and Christmas holidays as transport services are heavily booked and prices surge.

• Summer months (April to June) can be hot, so plan early morning safaris and carry sun protection.

• Winter fog in December and January may cause flight delays, so allow buffer time if flying.

• Depart early in the morning to avoid city traffic in Mumbai and to reach Kanha before dark for safety.

Arrival at Kanha National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Kanha National Park, you will find a peaceful environment surrounded by dense forests and wildlife sounds. The nearest towns like Mandla and Baikunthpur offer basic amenities and accommodation options.

Local transport includes prepaid taxis, shared jeeps, and sometimes hotel-arranged pickups. It is best to confirm your transport in advance to avoid waiting times. Popular areas to stay include Mukki and Kisli, which are close to park gates and have good facilities for tourists.

Conclusion

Traveling from Mumbai to Kanha National Park is best done by train or flight combined with local road transport, depending on your budget and time constraints. Trains offer an economical and scenic route, while flights save time but require additional road travel.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will ensure a smooth journey. With these tips, you can confidently plan your trip to Kanha and enjoy the rich wildlife and natural beauty the park offers.