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The tiger is one of the most graceful and awe-inspiring animals in the world. The power, aura and beauty of this big cat have always captivated the imagination of one and all. Unfortunately, the tiger, which was found extensively throughout south East Asia, is now on the brink of extinction. India happens to be one of the last strongholds of the royal Bengal tiger and wildlife enthusiasts from across the globe come to India only to get a glimpse of this shy and stunning animal. There are several National parks and Tiger Reserves in India where the tiger is protected zealously and one of the major bastions of the tiger is certainly the Kanha National Park in central India. Kipling Country The Kanha National Park, India is certainly one of the most celebrated and renowned National Parks in the world. This park is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India. This park is located about 175 kms away from Jabalpur, which is the nearest airport and railhead. The park came into existence on June 1, 1955 and was one of the first parks that came under the Project Tiger. This sal-dominated forest is spread over a huge area of 950 sq. km. Kanha is certainly one of the most picturesque parks in India as it encompasses a great blend of thick forest as well as huge grasslands or meadows. Apart from the sal trees, the park includes bamboo as a major type of vegetation, which provides the right resting place for the tiger. The Kanha National Park, India has a great legend to its name. This forest is said to have inspired Rudyard Kipling who wrote his famous "Jungle Book". Several characters in the story still abound this rich forest. Apart from the tiger, Kanha has a substantial population of leopards, wild dogs, sloth bear, jackals, wild cats, hyenas and wolves. The meadows of Kanha thrive with abundant herbivores that include the Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chowsingha and the Barking Deer. However, one animal that has become the face of Kanha is the hard-ground Barasingha. The Barasingha was on the verge of extinction with only 60 specimens remaining on the planet. However, due to dedicated conservation efforts this animal made a remarkable comeback and made Kanha their last refuge. In June 2006, it was estimated that about 1200 barasinghas roam the forests of Kanha. One of the oldest national parks in the country, Kanha National Park, India continues to fascinate wildlife lovers from across the world.
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