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Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India has gained global attention for its successful conservation efforts and reintroduction of African cheetahs through Project Cheetah. The park covers approximately 344 square kilometres and boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Indian wolf and Indian leopard. It is primarily covered by dry deciduous forests that support a vast range of floral species, including 123 types of trees, 71 types of shrubs, and 32 types of exotic spices. The park also has numerous water bodies and picturesque waterfalls.
Kuno National Park attracts wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers with its breathtaking landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and exciting jungle safaris. The park's conservation efforts include anti-poaching measures, education and awareness programs, and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among local communities. With its successful reintroduction of cheetahs and diverse range of wildlife, Kuno National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the wonders of India's diverse wildlife.
Kuno National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 33 species of mammals, 33 species of reptiles, 206 species of birds, 14 species of fish, and 10 species of amphibians. The park is known for its conservation efforts, which have helped to protect endangered species such as the Indian wolf and Indian leopard.
One of the most exciting recent developments at Kuno National Park has been the reintroduction of African cheetahs through Project Cheetah. The park is now one of the major places in India to experience a cheetah safari. Other notable species in the park include sloth bears, dholes, Indian jackals, Bengal foxes, and striped hyenas. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, including long-billed vultures, Indian white-backed vultures, red-headed vultures, and brown fish owls, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Kuno National Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close through a variety of safari options. One of the most popular ways to explore the park is through a jeep safari, which allows visitors to traverse the rugged terrain and get a closer look at the park's diverse wildlife.
Visitors can also opt for a walking safari, which provides a more intimate experience with nature and allows for a deeper appreciation of the park's flora and fauna. Another exciting way to experience Kuno National Park is through a night safari, which offers the opportunity to spot nocturnal animals such as hyenas and leopards.
Overall, Kuno National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique safari experiences.
There are plenty of things to explore and enjoy around Kuno National Park. One of the popular attractions is the Palpur Fort or Garhi, a historic fort that showcases the stunning medieval Indian architecture. Watching the sunset from the fort while enjoying the scenic views of the Kuno River is a must-do activity.
Another historic fort worth visiting is Amet Fort, which belonged to the Chandravanshi dynasty. Although the fort is now engulfed in shrubs, it still fascinates visitors with its ancient charm. Maitoni Fort is another architectural marvel that showcases the royalness of the bygone era with its massive walls and arches.
For those interested in understanding the water supply system of the region, the Kair-Khoh and Gravity Pipeline is an engineering marvel worth exploring. This 18-kilometre-long pipeline supplies water to different water holes throughout the forest with the help of gravity, without any maintenance.
Other attractions near Kuno National Park include Bhanwar Kho, Dev Kho, Maratha Kho, Natni Kho, Aamjhir, Daulatpura, Dev Kund, Jain Mandir, Ransinh Baba Temple, and Dhoret Temple. Each of these places has a unique charm that adds to the overall experience of exploring the region.
Kuno National Park can be accessed via air, rail, or road.
By Air:The nearest airport to Kuno is Gwalior Airport, located about 207 kilometres away. You can also take a flight to Indore or Bhopal, which are international airports.
By Rail:The nearest railway station to the national park is Shivpuri Railway Station, located at a distance of around 60 kilometres. Daily trains operate between Shivpuri and Hazrat Nizamuddin Station, which is in New Delhi.
By Road: You can reach Sesaipura in the Sheopur District from Shivpuri by hiring a cab. Tiktoli gate is around 16 kilometres away from Sesaipura. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Shivpuri to Sesaipura or other nearby towns.
Kuno National Park experiences three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. The best time to visit the park is during the winter months of November to March when the weather is pleasant and mild.
Summer (April to June): During summer, the temperature at Kuno National Park can soar up to 45°C (113°F), making it extremely hot and dry. It is not recommended to visit the park during these months as the scorching heat can make wildlife sightings difficult and uncomfortable.
Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the park, making it difficult to navigate and spot wildlife. The park remains closed during this period as the roads and trails become muddy and slippery, and the rivers and streams overflow.
Winter (October to March): The winter months bring pleasant weather to the park, with temperatures ranging between 5°C (41°F) to 25°C (77°F). This is the best time to visit the park as the weather is comfortable, and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The park remains open during this period.
The best season to visit Kuno National Park is from November to March, which is winter season in India. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for wildlife safaris and other outdoor activities. Additionally, this season is also the mating season for several species, which increases the chances of spotting wildlife in action.
However, it's important to note that the park remains closed during the monsoon season, from July to September, due to heavy rainfall and flooding. The summer season, from April to June, can be hot and dry, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C, which can make it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. However its the best time to visit as sightings are higher during the summer months.
Anyone can travel to Kuno National Park, but it is recommended that visitors follow the guidelines set by the park authorities to ensure their safety and to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Visitors are required to obtain a permit from the Forest Department before entering the park. It is also advised to hire a guide or join a guided tour to make the most of the visit and to learn about the park's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
There are a variety of stay options available at Kuno National Park, ranging from budget to deluxe. Some of the popular options include:
Overall, there are plenty of stay options available at Kuno National Park to suit all budgets and preferences.
To book a safari at Kuno National Park, you can follow these steps:
Note that safari bookings are subject to availability and can be cancelled or rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather or park closures. It's best to book your safari well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Each day in the forest during a safari in India can be different depending on the national park or reserve you are visiting and the type of safari you have chosen. However, here are some typical activities you can expect during a safari in India:
Most national parks offer an early morning safari, which starts before sunrise. During this time, you have a higher chance of spotting wildlife as they are active during the cooler hours of the day.
After the morning safari, you will return to your accommodation for breakfast.
You can use this time to rest, explore the surrounding area, or participate in any additional activities offered by the park.
In the afternoon, you can go for another safari to explore different parts of the national park and spot more wildlife.
Once the safari is over, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or go birdwatching. Some national parks also offer cultural programs or documentaries related to wildlife in the evening.
You can enjoy a sumptuous dinner at your accommodation, which is usually included in the package.
Note:The schedule may vary depending on the park's timings and the type of safari you choose. Some national parks also offer different types of safaris, such as elephant safaris, canoe safaris, or walking safaris, which may have a different schedule.
Here are some essential things you should pack for a jungle safari:
Comfortable and breathable clothing is a must for a jungle safari. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki or beige is also recommended to blend in with the surroundings. It's also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for early morning or late evening safaris when it can get chilly.
Closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction are recommended for a jungle safari. Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals as they do not provide adequate protection. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of socks that can keep your feet warm during early morning or late evening safaris.
A good quality insect repellent is essential to protect you from mosquito bites and other insects.
The sun can be intense in the jungle, so it's important to pack a sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
A hat or cap can protect your face and neck from the sun and also help you blend in with the surroundings.
A pair of binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience by allowing you to see animals that are far away.
A camera is a must to capture the amazing wildlife and landscape of the jungle. Make sure you pack an extra memory card and batteries.
It's important to stay hydrated during the safari, so pack a water bottle and some snacks such as energy bars or nuts.
Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.
A flashlight or headlamp can be useful during early morning or late evening safaris and also if you need to walk around in the dark.
Remember to pack light as you will be moving around a lot during the safari. It's also important to check with your tour operator or accommodation provider if they provide any additional items or equipment that you may need during the safari.