India’s First Cheetah Safari Opens At Kuno National Park

In a landmark moment for Indian wildlife conservation and tourism, Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh has opened the country’s first cheetah safari beginning October 1, 2025. After years of careful reintroduction efforts, visitors can now witness free-ranging cheetahs in their restored grassland and scrub habitats — a tangible symbol of India’s ambition to bring back a long-lost predator.

A Bold Experiment In Rewilding

Kuno has long been central to Project Cheetah, under which African cheetahs were translocated to India starting in 2022–23. The park has seen several promising outcomes: multiple litters of cubs born on Indian soil, some individuals reaching maturity, and cheetahs roaming farther than anticipated. These milestones hint at potential viability, though challenges remain — earlier mortalities and debates around carrying capacity, sex ratios, and genetic diversity have kept scientists vigilant.

The safari is structured to minimise human interference. Scheduled gypsy drives, regulated vehicle entry, and strict protocols aim to let cheetahs express natural behaviours — stalking, roaming, socialising — rather than performing for cameras. Officials emphasise that this initiative is not mere spectacle: revenue generated through safaris will help fund ongoing habitat management, veterinary care, prey monitoring and community outreach.

At present, reports suggest there are around 16 cheetahs roaming within Kuno’s landscapes. The park is also preparing “Kuno Retreat” lodging and dining facilities to enhance visitor comfort and extend stays in the region.

How To Visit, What To Watch For

Access to the safari is via Ahira Gate and Peepalwadi Gate — the same release zones where cheetahs were first introduced. Booking is available online through kunocheetahjunglesafari.com as well as at the park gates.

Safari slots run in the morning and evening, timed to match animal activity. Strict rules are in place: vehicles must travel below 20 km/h, visitors must remain inside at all times, music gadgets are banned, and no interference with animals is tolerated. The focus is firmly on responsible wildlife viewing.

Beyond cheetahs, Kuno’s mosaic ecosystem supports deer, antelope, bats, and over 200 species of birds, offering visitors a diverse natural experience. The long-term vision is to strengthen prey populations and connect habitats so cheetahs can thrive without straying into farmlands or human settlements.

The Information

Opening Date: October 1, 2025
Location: Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh (Ahira Gate & Peepalwadi Gate)
Booking: kunocheetahjunglesafari.com or on-site

Safari Prices:

• INR 4,500 per gypsy ride (up to 6 passengers)

• INR 1,200 per private light vehicle entry

Timings: Morning & evening slots (check seasonal schedules)
Speed Limit: 20 km/h
Rules: No alighting, no loud music, no littering, strict adherence to guide/forest staff instructions

Best Time To Visit:

• October–March for pleasant weather and higher chances of animal sightings

• Summers (April–June) are drier and hotter, but sightings can still be rewarding

Nearby Stay Options:

• Kuno Retreat (in development) for close-park stays

• Forest rest houses and eco-lodges around Sheopur and Shivpuri towns

Suggested Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive Sheopur/Shivpuri → Evening safari at Kuno

• Day 2: Morning safari → Explore nearby Chambal riverine habitats or heritage sites before departure

How To Reach Kuno National Park

• By Air:
  The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport (approx. 170 km / 4 hours drive). Another option is Indore Airport (approx. 330 km), better connected with major Indian cities.

• By Train:
  The closest railhead is Shivpuri Railway Station (approx. 65 km), well-connected to Delhi, Bhopal and Gwalior. Another convenient stop is Sheopur Kalan Station (approx. 50 km) for regional trains.

• By Road:
  Kuno lies between Sheopur and Shivpuri districts. From Delhi, the drive is about 8–9 hours (approx. 450 km) via Agra–Gwalior–Shivpuri. From Gwalior, it’s around 4 hours, and from Jaipur, about 6–7 hours. Regular buses and private taxis connect these towns to Kuno.

FAQs

Q1: How can I book tickets for the Kuno Cheetah Safari?
You can book safari tickets online via kunocheetahjunglesafari.com or directly at the Ahira and Peepalwadi gates of Kuno National Park. Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

Q2: What is the cost of the cheetah safari at Kuno National Park?
The safari costs INR 4,500 per gypsy ride (up to 6 passengers) and INR 1,200 per private light vehicle entry. Prices may vary slightly depending on seasonal schedules and demand.

Q3: What is the best time to visit Kuno National Park for cheetah sightings?
The ideal time is October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and animals are more active. Summer (April–June) can also offer rewarding sightings, though temperatures are higher.

Q4: How many cheetahs are currently at Kuno National Park?
As of 2025, there are around 16 cheetahs roaming freely in Kuno, including India-born cubs. Numbers may fluctuate as part of Project Cheetah’s long-term conservation plan.

Q5: How can I reach Kuno National Park?

• By Air: Nearest airport is Gwalior (170 km, ~4 hours).

• By Train: Closest railhead is Shivpuri (65 km).

• By Road: From Delhi, it’s ~450 km (8–9 hrs drive). The park is also connected to Gwalior, Jaipur, and Indore by highways and buses.