Bandhavgarh: Where History and Wildlife Converge
The name 'Bandhavgarh' echoes with ancient tales and historical significance, revealing a unique blend of mythology and wildlife. Derived from the words 'Bandhav' meaning brother and 'Garh' meaning fort, the name itself has a fascinating origin.
Mythological Roots:
According to the epic Ramayana, Bandhavgarh holds a connection with the legendary battle of Lanka. It is believed that Lakshmana, the brother of Rama, was gifted Bandhavgarh by his elder sibling after the victorious battle. The park's name finds its roots in this tale, and the existing Bandhavgarh National Park is named after the historic Bandhavgarh Fort.
Bandhavgarh Fort:
Situated on a hillock in the Vindhya range in Umaria, the Bandhavgarh Fort is more than just a historical relic. Legends from ancient books like Shiv Purana and Narad Panch Ratna describe how the fort was reconstructed by two monkeys who built a bridge between Lanka and the mainland. The fort bears the marks of human activity and architectural prowess, with man-made caves, inscriptions, and rock paintings adorning its structure.
Historical Significance:
Until the capital moved to Rewa in 1617 A.D., local rulers governed from the Bandhavgarh Fort. The fort, perched atop the Bandhavgarh hill, gradually fell into neglect after the capital's relocation, transforming into a royal hunting reserve. The maharajas, in their pursuit of luck, set out to hunt precisely 109 tigers each. By 1914, Maharaja Venkat Raman Singh had taken down 111 tigers.
Conservation Efforts:
The unregulated hunting and forest devastation prompted Maharaja Martand Singh of Rewa to propose the establishment of a national park in 1968. Initially covering 105 sq km, the park aimed at curbing poaching and addressing water scarcity. The conservation initiatives proved successful, leading to a significant rise in the Indian wildlife population, including the majestic tiger.
Expansion and Recognition:
Recognizing the need for broader conservation, Bandhavgarh became a part of Project Tiger in 1993. The park's territory expanded to include a core area of 694 sq km and a buffer zone of 437 sq km, officially designated as the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
Bandhavgarh stands as a testament to the coexistence of history and wildlife, where the echoes of ancient legends mingle with the roars of tigers, creating a sanctuary that preserves both the natural and cultural heritage of India.
This itinerary outlines a wildlife exploration journey through Bandhavgarh National Park and Kanha National Park. Here's a breakdown of the itinerary along with inclusions and exclusions:
Day 1 – Jabalpur To Bandhavgarh (180 Kms)
- Pickup from Jabalpur Railway Station / Airport.
- Drive to Bandhavgarh National Park.
- Check into the resort.
- Overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.
Day 2 – Jeep Jungle Safari in Bandhavgarh
- Morning jungle safari in an open gypsy.
- Day at leisure.
- Overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.
Day 3 – Evening Safari in Bandhavgarh
- Breakfast and leisure time.
- After lunch, an evening safari in Bandhavgarh.
- Overnight stay at the resort.
Day 4 – Bandhavgarh To Kanha (210 Kms)
- Breakfast and check out.
- Transfer to Kanha resort for check-in.
- Overnight stay in Kanha.
Day 5 – Kanha National Park
- Morning jungle safari in an open gypsy.
- Day at leisure.
- Overnight stay in Kanha.
Day 6 – Kanha National Park
- Morning jungle safari in an open gypsy.
- Day at leisure.
- Overnight stay in Kanha.
Day 7 – Kanha To Jabalpur (165 Kms)
- Breakfast and check out.
- Drop at Jabalpur Railway Station / Airport for onward journey.
Inclusions:
- 1 AC Room.
- Meals: 3 Breakfast, 3 Lunch, 3 Dinner in Bandhavgarh; 3 Breakfast, 3 Lunch, 3 Dinner in Kanha.
- Jungle Safaris: 1 Round in Bandhavgarh, 1 Round in Kanha.
- Gypsy, Guide & Permit for safaris.
- Pickup and drop from Jabalpur Railway Station / Airport.
- All sightseeing as per the itinerary.
- Toll-Tax, Parking & Driver Allowance.
Exclusions:
- 5% Government Service Tax.
- Train or Air Tickets Fare.
- Laundry, Mineral Water.
- Any expense of personal nature.
- Anything not mentioned in 'Inclusions.'
Note:
- Ensure you have the necessary permits and follow the guidelines for wildlife safaris.
- Personal expenses like camera fees, tips, etc., should be considered.
- Confirm the details of the inclusions and exclusions with the tour operator or service provider before the trip.
The Wild Life Safari Trip
Ranthambhore Road
Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan - 322001
Email: info@wildlifesafaritrip.com
Email: enquiry@wildlifesafaritrip.com
PH: +91-9772018780
PH: +91-7221812015