India just roared into a new era of wildlife tourism! 🐾
Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh has officially launched the country’s first-ever Cheetah Safari on October 1, 2025, marking a historic moment in India’s conservation story. Visitors can now witness India-born cheetahs roaming freely — a thrilling experience that combines wildlife revival with eco-tourism adventure.
About Kuno National Park
Nestled in Sheopur district, northern Madhya Pradesh, Kuno National Park covers 748 sq km of grassland, scrub forest, and rocky terrain. Originally a wildlife sanctuary, it rose to fame as the site of Project Cheetah, which reintroduced African cheetahs to India in 2022 — seventy years after extinction in the wild.
The park shelters leopards, chital, nilgai, sambar, blackbuck, wild boar, and over 150 bird species, making it one of India’s most biodiverse reserves.
India’s First Cheetah Safari: What’s Special
The Cheetah Safari opened to visitors on October 1, 2025, giving tourists the rare chance to see cheetahs born and raised in India.
Inside a secure Cheetah Zone, trained guides lead small groups in open gypsies to observe these graceful cats as they sprint, rest, and hunt naturally.
It’s more than a safari — it’s a living chapter of India’s wildlife comeback story.
Safari Timings and Bookings
| Season | Safari Timings |
|---|---|
| October – February | 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM & 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM |
| March – June | 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
How to Reach Kuno National Park
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| By Road | 150 km from Gwalior · 180 km from Shivpuri · 350 km from Bhopal — scenic, well-connected roads. |
| By Train | Nearest stations: Sheopur Kalan (50 km) or Gwalior Junction (150 km). |
| By Air | Closest airport: Gwalior Airport (150 km) with flights from Delhi, Indore and others. |
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip between October and March for pleasant weather and the best wildlife visibility.
The park remains closed July–September during the monsoon.
What You Can See
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🐆 Cheetahs (including India-born cubs)
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🐆 Leopards & Hyenas
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🦌 Chital, Sambar, Nilgai
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🐗 Wild Boar, Jackal, Fox
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🕊️ Peafowl, Partridge, Quail & Winter Migrants
Stay Options Near Kuno
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MP Tourism Forest Rest House, Palpur – inside park limits
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Kuno Jungle Resort – eco-friendly lodge near gate
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Hotels in Sheopur & Gwalior – comfortable stays with city amenities
Nearby Attractions
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Gwalior Fort (150 km)
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Madhav National Park, Shivpuri (180 km)
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Chambal River Safari, Morena
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Mitawali, Padavali & Bateshwar Temples – heritage circuit nearby
Why Kuno’s Cheetah Safari Matters
After more than 70 years of extinction, cheetahs have successfully adapted and bred in the wild at Kuno — a global conservation triumph.
The safari model balances eco-tourism, community income, and wildlife education, making Kuno a living classroom for sustainability.
Traveler Tips
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Book safaris well in advance.
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Carry binoculars and a zoom lens.
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Keep silent; avoid flash photography.
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Do not feed or approach animals.
Combine the trip with nearby heritage attractions.
FAQs on Kuno National Park’s Cheetah Safari
Q1. When did Kuno National Park start India’s first Cheetah Safari?
On October 1, 2025, visitors were allowed inside the Cheetah Zone to see India-born cheetahs.
Q2. How many cheetahs are now at Kuno?
Over 20 cheetahs, including a few born in India — a major Project Cheetah milestone.
Q3. How to book a Cheetah Safari?
Through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department or MP Tourism websites.
Q4. Are private vehicles permitted?
Yes — with valid forest permits. Entry costs ₹ 1,200 per vehicle; a guide is mandatory.
Q5. Best time for cheetah sightings?
Early morning and late afternoon safaris give the highest chances.
Conclusion
The Cheetah Safari at Kuno National Park stands as a proud symbol of India’s wildlife renaissance. Watching these sleek predators sprint across Indian grasslands is no longer a dream — it’s reality.
Whether you’re a wildlife lover, photographer, or weekend explorer, Kuno promises an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
🧭 Book your Cheetah Safari today and be part of India’s wild comeback story!
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