Kuno National Park: The New Home of the Cheetahs in India

 # Kuno National Park: The New Home of the Cheetahs in India


## Introduction

Nestled deep in the heart of **Madhya Pradesh**, **Kuno National Park** has drawn international attention as **the new home of African Cheetahs** in India. In **Sheopur district**, this **gorgeous and varied wildlife sanctuary** was once known for the abundance of leopards, wolves, and other species. Now, however, it's the hub for India's audacious **Cheetah Reintroduction Project**, and the place is definitely a must visit for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and conservationists.


If you are seeking an offbeat national park experience with **rich biodiversity, historical significance, and thrilling wildlife safaris**, Kuno should be on your travel list!  


## **Why is Kuno National Park Special?**  


### **1. The Grand Cheetah Comeback**

Kuno has the distinction of hosting African Cheetah in the history of India as the first wildlife reserve after being declared extinct in the country **over 70 years ago**.  It did so with cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa as part of the **Project Cheetah initiative** which were reintroduced here in 2022 and 2023.

- The park offers the **ideal habitat for cheetahs**, with vast open grasslands and savannah-like terrain.  

- Wildlife lovers are now offered a rare chance to see **cheetahs roaming free in India** once again.  



### **2. Haven for Diverse Fauna**  

In addition to cheetahs, Kuno is also inhabited by a **rich diversity of animals**, including:

- **Leopards** ???? – There is a robust population of leopards, and sightings can be thrilling.  

- **Indian wolves** ???? – One of the few places to see these shy predators.  

- **Jackals and Hyenas** – Contributing to the park's richness in carnivores.  

- **Spotted deer, Nilgai (Blue Bulls), Sambar, and Chinkara** – All important prey species for the big cats.


The **diversity of landscape in Kuno**, which has forests, grasslands, and riverbanks, makes it a perfect habitat for **a vast number of mammals, reptiles, and birds**. 


### **3. Bird lover's Paradise**

Kuno is a haven for **bird enthusiasts**, with **over 150 species of birds** recorded within the park. Some of these include: 

- **Indian Vulture** ????

- **Crested Serpent Eagle**

- **Paradise Flycatcher** (State bird of Madhya Pradesh)  - **Peacocks, Hornbills, and Kingfishers**  - 


The proximity of the park to the **Chambal River basin** also attracts a number of migratory birds, making it a thrilling destination for **bird photography**. 


### **4. Historical and Cultural Significance**  Kuno has an interesting history beyond its wildlife:

- It was considered a **future relocation site for Asiatic lions from Gir** but that plan never saw the light of the day. 

- Ancient **fort ruins and temples are there too** and add history to your wildlife journey. 

- The local **Sahariya tribe** is one of India's oldest indigenous tribes that have been dwelling around Kuno for ages in harmony with nature.


## **Best Time to Visit Kuno National Park**  

- **Winter (October to March):** The best period for wildlife safaris and birding, with pleasant weather.  

- **Summer (April to June):** Good for animal spotting at waterholes, with very hot temperatures.  

- **Monsoon (July to September):** The park is shut because of heavy rain.  


## **Safari Experience in Kuno**

Wildlife safaris in Kuno provide **an amalgamation of open grassland drives and deep forest explorations**.  - **Jeep Safari Timings:**  - **Morning Safari: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM**  - **Evening Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM**  - **Safari Booking:** The booking is possible on the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website or at the park gates.

- **By Air:** The closest airport is **Gwalior Airport (150 km)**.  

- **By Train:** The nearest railway station is **Shivpuri (100 km)** or **Gwalior (150 km)**.  

- **By Road:** Kuno is well-connected by road to major cities like **Gwalior, Jaipur, and Bhopal**.  



## **Tips for Kuno National Park Visitors**  

✅ **Book safaris in advance**, as limited vehicles are allowed inside the park.

**Put on neutral clothes** that aid in good visibility of the animals. 

Pack binoculars and a decent camera for clear shots of wild animals and birds. 

The park's regulation should be respected: do not make much noise, throw waste, or give food to any animal. 

Visit in early morning or in the afternoon: this will surely give better access to wildlife sight. 


**Conclusion

Kuno National Park is a **wildlife lover’s dream**, offering an exciting mix of **rare cheetah sightings, diverse fauna, historical charm, and scenic landscapes**. Whether you're passionate about **big cats, birdwatching, or raw jungle experiences**, Kuno has something for everyone.


As **India's only cheetah reserve**, Kuno has now become a globally significant conservation site. In fact, visiting this park is no ordinary safari travel, but rather **a one-time experience** to see history written. 


So are you ready to discover **India's first cheetah reintroduction site**? ????????????  ????

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