Kanha National Park, one of India’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries, is a top destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Located in Madhya Pradesh, this park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger. If you’re planning a trip from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, to Kanha National Park, understanding the distance and travel options is essential for a smooth journey. Motel Chandan, a renowned accommodation near the park, offers a comfortable stay with easy access to the wilderness. In this guide, we’ll explore the distance from Bilaspur to Kanha National Park, along with the best ways to travel, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.Overview of the Journey
Bilaspur is a significant city in Chhattisgarh and is well-connected by road and rail to various parts of India. The distance from Bilaspur to Kanha National Park is approximately 230 kilometers, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway or an extended wildlife adventure. The journey typically takes about 5-6 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. With several transportation options available, including private car, taxi, and train, reaching Kanha from Bilaspur is relatively straightforward.
1. Distance from Bilaspur to Kanha National Park by Road
Traveling by road is one of the most popular and direct ways to reach Kanha National Park from Bilaspur. The scenic route takes you through the lush landscapes of central India, offering a glimpse of rural life and natural beauty.
Route Details
- Route: Bilaspur to Kanha National Park via Mungeli and Mandla
- Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Route Overview: Starting from Bilaspur, head west on NH49 towards Mungeli. Continue on this route until you reach Mandla, a key town near Kanha National Park. From Mandla, it’s a short drive of about 60 kilometers to the park’s entry gate, where Motel Chandan is conveniently located.
- Scenic Highlights: The road journey offers breathtaking views of the countryside, passing through small villages, rivers, and forested areas. The drive is particularly enjoyable during the monsoon season when the landscape is lush and green.
Transportation Options
- Private Car: Driving your own car or renting one gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. This option is ideal for those who enjoy road trips and wish to make stops along the way.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available in Bilaspur and offer a comfortable and convenient way to reach Kanha. Hiring a taxi is especially suitable for families or groups traveling together.
- Bus Services: While less common, there are bus services from Bilaspur to Mandla or other nearby towns. From there, you can hire a local taxi to reach Kanha National Park.
Travel Tips for Road Journeys
- Early Departure: Leaving Bilaspur early in the morning helps you avoid traffic and ensures you reach Kanha before dark.
- Fuel and Snacks: Make sure your vehicle is fully fueled, and carry snacks and water, as there are limited facilities along the route.
- Safety First: Drive cautiously, especially when navigating through forested areas, as wildlife crossings are possible. Avoid driving at night due to limited visibility in rural areas.
2. Distance from Bilaspur to Kanha by Train
If you prefer the comfort of train travel, you can take a train from Bilaspur to one of the nearby railway stations close to Kanha National Park. While there is no direct train to the park itself, this option allows you to relax during the journey and enjoy the scenic countryside.
Nearest Railway Stations to Kanha
- Jabalpur Railway Station:
- Distance from Kanha: 160 kilometers
- Travel Time by Road: 3-4 hours
- Overview: Jabalpur is the nearest major railway station to Kanha National Park. From Bilaspur, you can take a train to Jabalpur, and then continue by taxi or bus to reach the park.
- Train Options: Several trains operate between Bilaspur and Jabalpur, offering different classes of travel to suit your preferences.
- Gondia Railway Station:
- Distance from Kanha: 145 kilometers
- Travel Time by Road: 3-4 hours
- Overview: Gondia is another convenient railway station for reaching Kanha. After arriving in Gondia by train, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the park.
- Train Options: Trains from Bilaspur to Gondia are frequent, making this a viable option for travelers heading to Kanha.
Traveling from the Railway Station to Kanha
- Taxi Services: Taxis are available at both Jabalpur and Gondia railway stations. Pre-booking a taxi ensures a smooth and hassle-free transfer to Kanha.
- Bus Services: Local buses and shared jeeps operate from these railway stations to Kanha, but this option may take longer and offer less comfort.
3. Reaching Kanha National Park by Air
For those who prefer to fly, the nearest airport to Bilaspur is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur. From Raipur, you can take a road journey to Kanha National Park, covering the remaining distance by car or taxi.
Flights to Raipur
- Swami Vivekananda Airport (Raipur): Raipur’s airport is well-connected to major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. The airport is located about 15 kilometers from Raipur city center.
- Flight Duration: Domestic flights to Raipur typically take 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your departure city.
Road Journey from Raipur to Kanha
- Distance from Raipur: Approximately 230 kilometers
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Overview: After landing in Raipur, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to drive to Kanha. The journey from Raipur follows a similar route as from Bilaspur, offering beautiful views and a comfortable ride.
4. Additional Travel Tips for Reaching Kanha National Park
- Advance Booking: Whether you choose to travel by road, rail, or air, booking your transportation in advance is crucial, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Packing Essentials: Carry essentials like water, snacks, and any medications you may need. The weather in Kanha can vary, so pack accordingly.
- Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged and bring a power bank. GPS-enabled navigation will be helpful during your road journey.
- Emergency Contacts: Save important contact numbers, including Motel Chandan’s contact information and local emergency services, for easy access during your trip.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bilaspur to Kanha National Park is a journey filled with excitement and natural beauty. Whether you choose to drive, take a train, or fly part of the way, reaching Motel Chandan and the park itself is a straightforward process. With its prime location near Kanha National Park, Motel Chandan offers the perfect base for your wildlife adventures. Plan your trip today, and prepare to explore one of India’s most remarkable natural treasures!