Unveiling the Majestic Kanha: Balaghat and Mandla Districts

Exploring the Enchanting Wilderness

Nestled in the heart of central India, the districts of Mandla and Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh unfold a tale of natural splendor and cultural richness. Spanning an extensive area of 8771 sq km, Mandla district, part of the Jabalpur division, boasts a landscape adorned with Sal forests and rolling grass plains, home to the indigenous Gond tribe and other adivasi communities. This southern haven is not only a testament to biodiversity but also hosts the renowned Kanha National Park, a Tiger Reserve with its headquarters situated in Mandla.

Balaghat, its northern counterpart, covers 9229 sq km, forming the southernmost region of the Jabalpur division and sharing its boundary with Mandla. Encompassing a significant portion of the Kanha Tiger Reserve, Balaghat district is also known for housing the nation's leading manganese and copper mines.

Kanha Tiger Reserve: A Natural Gem

1. Zone Distribution of Kanha Tiger Reserve

The Kanha Tiger Reserve, a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, is strategically divided into two crucial zones:

• Core Zone: Encompassing 940 sq km.
• Buffer Zone: Extending over 1009 sq km.

2. Core and Buffer Zones in Mandla and Balaghat

Mandla District

• Core Zones: Kisli and Kanha zones (409.82 sq km).
• Buffer Zones: Khatia, Garhi, and Sijhora (405.72 sq km).

Balaghat District

• Core Zones: Mukki, Bhaisangat & Supkhar (530.12 sq km).
• Buffer Zones: Khapa, Samnapur, Garhi, and Sijhora (603.97 sq km).

3. Gateways, Connectivity, and Accessibility

Mandla District:

• Gates: Khatia (western side) and the newly opened Sarhi Gate.
• Nearest Cities: Jabalpur (185 Km).
• Nearest Railway Station: Nainpur.
• Driving Distance: 51 Km or 1 hour from Nainpur.
• Nearest Airport: Jabalpur (185 Km).

Balaghat District:

• Gates: Mukki (southeastern side).
• Nearest Cities: Raipur (180 Km).
• Nearest Railway Station: Bilaspur.
• Driving Distance: 193 Km or 4 hours from Bilaspur.
• Nearest Airport: Jabalpur (229 Km).

4. Major Tehsils Under KTR

Mandla District: Mandla and Dindori Tehsil.

Balaghat District: Baihar, Paraswada, Balaghat, Lanji, and Waraseoni Tehsils.

5. Field Director and KTR’s Forests Main Office

• Location: Mandla, Madhya Pradesh, PIN 481 661.
• Contact: Tel: 07642-250760 (O), Fax: 07642-251266 (O).
• Email: fdknp.mdl@mp.gov.in.

6. Surwahi Social: Bridging Districts

Situated in the Paraswada Tehsil of Balaghat district, Surwahi Social stands as a unique homestay and coliving leisure accommodation. Positioned on the border between Mandla and Balaghat, it strategically places itself closer to Mandla district center (60 Km) than Balaghat district center (90 Km). This central location ensures proximity to both major gates of KTR – approximately 30 km from the Mukki gate and 20 km from Khatia in the Mandla district.