Kuno National Park – Complete Safari & Cheetah Guide (2026 Edition)

1. Introduction to Kuno National Park

• Located in Madhya Pradesh
• Declared National Park in 2018
• India’s only park with reintroduced African cheetahs
• Savanna-like grassland habitat
• Emerging wildlife tourism destination

1. Location & How to Reach

• Situated in Sheopur district, MP
• Gwalior (~3–4 hrs by road)
• Jaipur (~5–6 hrs by road)
• Nearest Railway Station: Gwalior
• Nearest Airports: Gwalior & Jaipur

1. Safari Zones & Entry Gates

• Core zone with monitored cheetah areas
• Expanding buffer eco-tourism routes
• Main entry gates (subject to forest updates)
• Limited daily permits

1. Safari Timings (Seasonal)

• Open: October – June
• Closed during monsoon (July–September)
• Morning & Evening safari slots
• Weekly closure as per MP rules

1. Safari Types

• Jeep Safari (limited vehicles)
• Guided safari mandatory
• Controlled access near cheetah zones

1. Safari Booking Process

• Online booking via MP Forest portal
• Advance booking recommended
• Valid ID proof mandatory
• Limited permit availability

1. Cheetah Population Update (2026)

• Translocated from Namibia & South Africa
• Breeding and cub updates
• Managed under National Tiger Conservation Authority
• Ongoing conservation monitoring

1. Wildlife Sightings

• Cheetah, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena
• Chital, Nilgai, Wild Boar
• Grassland bird species

1. Best Time to Visit

• November–February: Pleasant weather
• March–June: Better visibility but hotter
• Closed during monsoon

1. Attractions Inside Park

• Open grasslands
• Riverine forest patches
• Watchtowers

1. Nearby Attractions

• Gwalior
• Gwalior Fort
• Jaipur
• Ranthambore National Park

1. Accommodation Options

• Eco lodges near Kuno
• Budget hotels in Sheopur
• Combine stay with Ranthambore luxury options

1. Safari Tips

• Book well in advance
• Choose early morning safari
• Combine with another wildlife park
• Manage expectations on cheetah sightings

1. Kuno vs Ranthambore Comparison

• Cheetah vs Tiger attraction
• Developing vs mature tourism infrastructure
• Moderate vs high sighting probability
• Unique new experience vs classic safari

1. FAQs

• Is cheetah sighting guaranteed?
• How many cheetahs are in Kuno?
• Which gate is best?
• How many safaris should I book?

1. Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival & evening safari
• Day 2: Morning safari + Gwalior visit
• Day 3: Early safari & departure