In this guide
Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh became world news as the site of Project Cheetah — India's ambitious effort to bring back the cheetah, decades after the species went extinct in the country. If you're planning a visit, it helps to go in with an accurate picture: Kuno is a genuinely important conservation story, but it is not a guaranteed-cheetah-sighting safari like an established tiger reserve.
What is Project Cheetah?
Under Project Cheetah, Kuno has received cheetahs from Namibia (2022), South Africa (2023) and Botswana (2026). By 2026 the population had grown to around 57 cheetahs (including cubs born in India) across Kuno and a second site at Gandhi Sagar — described as the largest cheetah population outside Africa. It's a landmark reintroduction, closely watched and much debated.
Realistic expectations on sightings
This is the honest part. Many of the cheetahs are still in large fenced "soft bomas" (enclosures for conditioning and breeding), while others are free-ranging across a park of roughly 748 sq km. That means tourist cheetah sightings are not guaranteed — the animals are spread over a huge area or managed in enclosures not open to casual viewing. Kuno's tourism infrastructure is also newer and evolving. Go for the landscape, the birdlife and the chance of wildlife — and treat any cheetah sighting as a bonus, not a certainty.
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Plan My Trip →How safaris work (check current rules)
Kuno's safari zones, gates, timings and booking process have been developing and can change with the project's management decisions. Before planning, confirm the current safari status, permitted zones and booking process directly with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department (and reputable local operators) rather than relying on older blog posts. Book any permitted safaris in advance.
Best time to visit
The pleasant, cooler months of October to March are generally best for wildlife tourism in central India; parks in the region often close during the monsoon — check current dates.
How to reach
Kuno is in Sheopur district. The usual approach is by road from Gwalior (the nearest large city with an airport and railhead) or via Sheopur; it's a long drive, so plan an overnight rather than a rushed day trip.
Where to stay
A small number of resorts and lodges have come up around the park's fringes. Options are limited compared with established reserves, so book early.
Costs (indicative)
Safari permits, jeep hire and lodge stays are the main costs, and these vary as tourism at Kuno matures. Confirm current fees when you book.
Responsible travel
This is a sensitive, high-stakes conservation site. Follow all park rules to the letter, keep a respectful distance and silence around any wildlife, never pressure guides to chase sightings, and choose operators who prioritise the animals over the photo.
FAQ
Can tourists see cheetahs at Kuno?
Sightings are possible but not guaranteed — many cheetahs are in enclosures or free-ranging over a large area. Manage your expectations and confirm current safari access with the forest department.
How many cheetahs are in Kuno?
As of 2026, the Project Cheetah population had grown to around 57 across Kuno and a second site, including cubs born in India.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Team
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
