How to Book Bandhavgarh National Park

How to Book Bandhavgarh National Park:

Bandhavgarh National Park: A Wilderness Haven

Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park stands as a testament to India's commitment to wildlife conservation. Renowned for its exceptional tiger population, it holds the distinction of having one of the highest densities of tigers in the country. The 2019 tiger census underscored Madhya Pradesh's prominence, with 526 tigers recorded in its reserves, further solidifying Bandhavgarh's status as a tiger haven.

Encompassing a sprawling 1536 sq. km., the national park comprises a core zone of 716 sq. km. and an additional 820 sq. km. designated as the buffer zone. Situated at an altitude ranging from 400 to 800 meters, Bandhavgarh is cradled between the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges, creating a mesmerizing landscape for both wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Territory:
Bandhavgarh boasts the distinction of sheltering the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers globally. The jungle's legacy includes a history of white tigers, with Bandhavgarh considered the origin of all white tigers worldwide. While sightings of white tigers have not been reported in the last 50 years, the park's tiger population continues to thrive, offering visitors an excellent chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Biodiversity Gem:
Beyond its tiger population, Bandhavgarh is a biodiversity hotspot. The region is home to over 30 species of mammals, 260 species of birds, 70 species of butterflies, as well as reptiles and insects. The lush flora consists of evergreen Sal forests, mixed forests, and expansive grasslands, creating a diverse ecosystem. The park hosts over 500 species of plants, contributing to the rich tapestry of the natural environment.

Avian Paradise:
Birdwatchers find solace in Bandhavgarh, where the varied vegetation attracts a plethora of bird species. With the guidance of trained naturalists, visitors can easily spot common birds in the area, making it a paradise for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Bandhavgarh National Park, with its rich tapestry of wildlife and stunning landscapes, invites all those seeking an immersive experience in the heart of nature. From the regal tigers to the myriad bird species, the park unfolds a captivating narrative of India's diverse and thriving wilderness.

Bandhavgarh Fort and Other Attractions

Beyond the enthralling safari experiences, Bandhavgarh National Park offers a wealth of attractions that enrich the overall visit to this wildlife haven.

1. Bandhavgarh Fort:
   The majestic Bandhavgarh Fort, situated in the center of the park's 32 hills, stands as a testament to the region's historical significance. With cliffs reaching heights of up to 800 meters, the fort provides a captivating view of the surrounding landscape. Dating back to prehistoric times, the fort features several caves, adding to its archaeological allure. Legend has it that Shri Rama, after conquering Ravana, stayed in this region and built the fort as a gift for his brother Lakshmana. The name "Bandhavgarh" itself is derived from this historical event, with 'Bandhav' meaning brother and 'Garh' denoting fort.

2. Baghel Museum:
   The Baghel Museum in Bandhavgarh is a captivating showcase of the rich legacy of Maharaja Rewa. Preserving the possessions and artifacts of the Maharaja, the museum is a royal mansion that immerses visitors in the historical grandeur of the region. Notable exhibits include the preserved body of Mohan, the first white tiger spotted by the Maharaja, and ancient hunting equipment used by the royal family.

3. Best Safari Zones:
   The Bandhavgarh National Park is divided into core and buffer zones, each offering unique safari experiences. The core zones, namely Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli, spread across 716 sq. km, are prime locations for jeep safaris. Additionally, the buffer zones - Dhamokhar, Johila (Kalwa), and Panpatha (Pachpedi) - covering 820 sq. km, provide diverse wildlife encounters.

4. Village Tala Bandhavgarh:
   Village Tala provides a glimpse into traditional Indian village life, offering an authentic experience of ethnic living. With modest dwellings, mud-clustered houses, and elders smoking hookahs, the village encapsulates a timeless charm. The landscapes surrounding Tala Village add to its allure, and visitors can find various hotels and resorts for comfortable accommodations.

5. Shesh Shaiya – The Vishnu Statue:
   The Shesh Shaiya, a 10th-century statue of Lord Vishnu lying on the Shesh Nag, is a significant attraction. The statue is accompanied by depictions of Brahma and Shiva (Shivling), forming the Holy Trinity. The Climbers Point offers a breathtaking view of the natural beauty surrounding the area.

Bandhavgarh National Park, with its blend of wildlife adventures and cultural treasures, invites visitors to delve into the diverse facets of this enchanting destination.

How to Reach Bandhavgarh National Park:

By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport
  - Though Khajuraho is the nearest airport to Bandhavgarh, the frequency of flights is relatively low.
- Alternative Airport: Jabalpur Airport (JLR)
  - Located around 200 km from Bandhavgarh National Park.
  - Jabalpur Airport offers excellent flight connectivity from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
  - Major airlines operate regular flights to Jabalpur.
- Travel from Jabalpur Airport to Bandhavgarh:
  - Taxis can be hired from Jabalpur Airport to reach Bandhavgarh National Park.
  - The distance is approximately 114 km, and the journey takes around 4.5 hours by road.

By Rail:
- Nearest Railway Head: Umaria (35 km from the reserve)
- Alternative Railway Station: Katni
  - Both Umaria and Katni are well-connected railway stations with major cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jabalpur.
  - The overnight train journey from Delhi to Umaria takes approximately 12-14 hours.
  - Cabs are readily available outside the railway stations for transportation to Bandhavgarh National Park.

By Road:
- While there are no direct bus services from Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh National Park, private taxis or vehicles can be easily hired.
- The tiger reserve is well-connected by road, and private cars are a convenient mode of transportation.
- The road network is excellent, allowing for easy access to Bandhavgarh from various parts of the country.

Note:
- Bandhavgarh National Park is well-connected by road, making it accessible for private vehicles.
- The choice of transportation depends on individual preferences and convenience.
- Taxis and cabs are readily available for hire, providing a comfortable and efficient means of reaching the national park.

Embark on a memorable journey to Bandhavgarh National Park, where the captivating wildlife and lush landscapes await your exploration.