Wild Encounters in Kanha National Park Safari

The Safari Begins in Mukki Zone

November mornings in the Indian jungle are magical — cool, misty, and full of surprises. Our recent wildlife adventure took us to Kanha National Park, one of India’s most famous tiger reserves, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. We explored the beautiful Mukki Zone, a region known for its tall sal trees, lush grasslands, rich birdlife, and serene waterbodies.

As the sun was yet to rise, we gathered around the Mukki gate ticket counter, bundled up in jackets and mufflers. The souvenir shop beside the counter was already buzzing with early risers, and the lined-up gypsies were ready to take us into the wild. Ours stood first in line — a good chance, perhaps?

Guides and drivers were allotted, and within minutes, we entered the Mukki zone, excitement bubbling inside us.
The moment we passed through the gate, a thick fog hugged the forest floor.
Tall grasses stood drenched in dew, glowing faintly in the morning light.
Nature was waking up.

A Misty Start to the Safari

As we entered the zone, the forest welcomed us with thick fog and tall grass.
Dewdrops sparkled in the morning light, and the atmosphere was pure magic.

First Sightings: Chital and Barasingha

On our left, a herd of spotted deer (Chital) grazed peacefully, followed by a group of Barasingha, also known as the hard ground swamp deer — a rare and graceful species unique to this region.

We spotted a herd of chital deer on our left, grazing peacefully. Alongside them were the majestic Barasingha (hard ground swamp deer) — a rare and iconic species of Kanha. We paused, took a few photos, and soaked in the moment.

We quietly took photographs, careful not to disturb them.
But what happened next took our breath away…

A Raw Moment: Wild Dogs on a Hunt

We stopped in our tracks as a pack of wild dogs (Dholes) darted across the forest path. In a flash, they had taken down a chital deer.
It was intense, emotional, and real — a moment that reminded us that the jungle is raw, wild, and unapologetically natural.

A pack of wild dogs (Dholes) rushed across the path. In a swift, intense moment, they had brought down a chital. It was a shocking yet real part of the forest life — raw, rare, and emotional.

We recorded this rare sighting and shared it in a video on our YouTube channel – watch it here!

 

Forest Beauty in Every Frame

Moving ahead, the forest’s diversity unfolded before us — rocky terrain, dense woods, tranquil lakes, and bird calls echoing through the air. It was a sensory feast. The early winter light filtered through tree canopies, casting a golden glow that made it the perfect time for wildlife photography.

One tree that stood out for me was the Banyan tree. Its massive trunk, aerial roots hanging like veils, and the sense of age and peace it carried was grounding. In India, Banyan trees are considered sacred, often worshipped and symbolizing eternal life. Their wide canopy shelters countless birds and small creatures, making them vital to the forest ecosystem. These ancient giants are not just trees — they are living legends.

The Search for the Bengal Tiger

Suddenly, a deer’s alarm call pierced the air. We held our breath, hoping to spot a Bengal tiger emerging through the tall grass. The anticipation was electric. But, as it happens often in the wild, we saw nothing. With hearts still hopeful, we drove towards the breakfast point.

Breakfast at the Center Point

In Indian jungles, safaris have a designated center point for a break. In Mukki, this stop has a small restaurant and washroom facility. Visitors can get down, stretch their legs, and enjoy packed breakfast brought from their hotel or lodge.

Over hot chai and sandwiches, we exchanged stories with fellow travelers. Our guides and drivers, meanwhile, gathered updates from others about recent animal sightings — sharing real-time jungle news to plan the rest of the safari smartly.

The Royal Encounter: Pattawallah the Tiger

Post-breakfast, we continued our journey. Just around a forest bend, we found him — Pattawallah, a collared male tiger, calmly sitting near the path. Majestic and massive, his eyes locked with ours briefly before turning away with a casual flick of his tail. He is monitored by the Kanha forest department as part of ongoing conservation efforts, and his presence was nothing short of regal.

Final Sighting: Barasingha and the Lesser Adjutant Stork

Near a large waterbody, we saw a Lesser Adjutant Stork take flight. The sight was dramatic — long wings, a powerful lift-off, and a splash of grace.

In the water and nearby grasslands, Barasingha deer — stags, does, and playful fawns — grazed peacefully. These deer are the official mascots of Kanha National Park, and their story is inspiring. At one point, only 67 individuals were left, but thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, their population now exceeds 1,000. A true wildlife success story!

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Final Thoughts

Our morning in Kanha’s Mukki Zone was a blend of misty forest charm, wild encounters, and soul-stirring moments. From fog-kissed grasslands and dramatic predator scenes to the serene beauty of deer and birds, every turn had something to offer.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or nature photographer, Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh is a destination you must visit. And when you do, don’t skip Mukki Zone — it might just give you a morning you’ll never forget.

🌿 Until our next wild journey, keep exploring and respecting nature! 🐾