Located on the Vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is spread over an area of 400 sq km. It has a varied topography of steep ridges, open-meadows and dense forest. Bandhavgarh is most famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers. It has the highest number of tigers in India. Earlier Bandhavgarh used to be a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Rewa not too far away. Presently Bandhavgarh is declared safe natural habitat for White Tigers. White tigers are considered as an attraction at all zoos of the world. In fact, White Tigers were discovered first near Bandhavgarh. Bandhavgarh sports muddy broken terrains, covered with grassy swamps and many forested valleys.
Taking into consideration all the factors the best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is between December and February. But if one is more of a tiger lover then it is best to go from April to June when tiger and leopard sightings are at its best. One can stick close to a water body and find the entire fauna of the jungle.
Bandhavgarh National Park has diverse weather conditions. The winter temperatures range from as low as 0 to 20 degrees Celsius while summer may reach as high as 46 degree centigrade. The park receives an annual rainfall of 1200 mm.
Being a jungle, there is no facility for credit card or ATM so it is best to carry cash while travelling.
All foreigners must have a valid visa to India. Visitors can obtain an entry permit against a nominal fee of Rs 20 for Indians and Rs 200 for foreigners.(subject to change) There is an additional charge for vehicles and cameras. One can also hire guides through the journey. There is time restriction and tourists are allowed in the park at specific timings. Driving in the park at night or walking around is prohibited and could be dangerous.
By Air The nearest airport to Bandhavgarh is at Khajuraho or Jabalpur. These airports are well connected to other major cities of India from where a number of airlines connect to Delhi and Mumbai for going to foreign countries.
By Train Nearest railway station for Bandhavgarh National Park is at Katni which is around 120 km from the park and is handled by South-Eastern railways.
By Road Bandhavgarh is equi-distant from Jabalpur and Khajuraho. One can get a bus / taxi to reach here from either of these cities. Getting Around:
One can find frequent buses. MPSTDC also has a Jeep service for the tourists to visit in and around the park. Booking should be made in advance for the local sight-seeing tour.
Topography The northern area of the park is covered by vast grassland and bamboo forests. There are rocky ridges also with steep cuts made by streams of water. The central area of the park which credits most animal sightings is 110 sq km and has 32 hills and many marshy patches dispersed with grassland and some water bodies. This part is dense forest leading up to the hilly slopes.
Flora Bandhavgarh national park is densely forested with Sal Trees. A variety of trees like Sali, saja, and dhoban can also be found. The park is very picturesque in the cooler months and is a paradise for landscape photographers and nature lovers.
Fauna The reserve is globally famous for its tigers. It also has the largest number of tigers in India. Besides tigers it has a wonderful collection of chinkara, chital, chausingha, wild bear, jackal, and sambhar. Rhesus macaque, and black faced langur monkeys are common in the park. Recommended Circuits: Khajuraho – Jabalpur – Nagpur – Kanha National Park - Bandhavgarh National Park
Finding a place to eat is not difficult as almost all accommodation facilities have their own canteen / restaurants where outsiders are also welcome. One can also eat at several small roadside local food-joints (dhabas) which could be a delightful experience. The nearest place to Bandhavgarh where you can get variety of food is at Umaria. Food and water is available in plenty. One can dine at any of the resorts as they welcome guests other than their occupants as well. Most places here serve food with lots of chillies. For adventurous eaters, there are many small roadside eateries which offer delicious food. Bandhavgarh has nice eating facilities. There are several government run lodges which offer great food at reasonable prices.
Wear casual, easy to wash travel clothes. Laundry service is available at all hotels. Woollens is a must as early morning jeep drive in the jungle can be very cold. A light windcheater, hat, gloves and scarf are highly recommended. Wear wide sunglasses in the day while in the sun.
There are enough options to stay in Bandhavgarh and the process for providing more facilities is being organised. There are number of two star hotels as well for the tourists. Some hotels available in Bandhavgarh are: Tiger’s Den Resort: Situated between the lush green bounties this is a beautiful place to stay in Bandhavgarh.
Royal Tiger Resort: One can live in oriental style cottages. This resort is spread in acres of land and offers good facilities for its customers.
Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge:This offers a natural kind of living with typical Indian village décor.
Wild Haven Resort: This resort is hardly a kilometer away from the main gate of Bandhavgarh park. It is close to the township of Tala. Maple Retreat: Here one can stay in various facilities like tents, cottages and modern rooms. This resort is equipped with all the amenities that one may require.
Jungle Mantra:Developed in the jungles of over 25 acres, Jungle Mantra has facilities like luxurious and cool bamboo huts and modern swiss tents. It generates a nice experience of living in natural environments.
