Bandhavgarh National Park: A Wildlife Retreat In The Lap Of Nature In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

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Bandhavgarh National Park India is a rejuvenating paradise for travelers who are looking for an escape into the wild. Its star attractions include the world famous Bengal tiger, white tiger, leopards, rare species of deer and a vast area that is not only greener than green but also varied in its topography. So if you’re looking for a holiday at this amazing destination, we have you covered! From hotels to sightseeing to fun things to do, find out everything you need to know about this green paradise.

About Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the most exciting national parks in India. It is one green destination where you can not only spot the elusive tiger but also leopards, elephants, and white tigers. Located in Madhya Pradesh, it lies in the Vindhya Hills of the Umaria district. For travelers who are looking to rejuvenate themselves amidst nature and wildlife, this Indian national park is somewhat a perfect choice.

Must Read: Mrugavani National Park: A Family Weekend Getaway Near Hyderabad!

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Best Time To Visit Bandhavgarh National Park

The Bandhavgarh tiger reserve is open from October to June and one can visit it anytime during the day
The park is closed during the monsoon season in the months of July, August, and September

Bandhavgarh National Park (Distances from Major Cities)

Bandhavgarh National Park is well connected with all the major cities and stations in India.

Jabalpur : 190 km/ 4 hrs
Satna: 120 km
Delhi: 978 km
Gwalior: 565 km
Umaria: 35 km/ 45 min
Khajuraho: 270 km/ 6 hrs
Katni: 102 km

Bandhavgarh National Park Flora & Fauna

Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the best places to witness the exotic and diverse speciecs of flora and fauna both. Here is a list of everything that one can expect to witness when visiting this natural reserve.

Flora In Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the richest places in India when it comes to flora. This national park, which is spread across an area of 446 sq km is one of the lushest parts of Umaria district and has a dry deciduous type of foliage. Moreover, the moderate climate of the park combined with lush topography also encourages varied and rich flora. In totality, there are 32 hills, plateaus, meadows, and cliffs – all of which come together for a splendid nature and wildlife experience like none other. The area is also known for its Sal forests in the valley region and the Bamboo stretches in the lower slopes apart from other vegetation species, trees, and huge grasslands.

Apart from this, there are rivers, perennial streams, and rivulets flowing across different zones giving it a scenic ambience and a natural importance.

Fauna In Bandhavgarh National Park

One of the most famous animals in Bandhavgarh National Park is the tiger and here travelers can witness its various varieties including the white tiger. Apart from this, there are in general more than 22 species of mammals and more than 250 species of birds. Visitors can enter the park either through a motor vehicle or on an elephant back in the company of a forest official. Bandhavgarh Safari is generally carried out early in the morning until 10 am and from 4 pm until dusk.

Some of the most famous animals in the Bandhavgarh National Park include carnivores like Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Ratel, Gray Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard, and Tiger. The artiodactyls found here include wild pig, spotted deer, sambar, chausingha, nilgai and chinkara with mammals like dhole, the small Indian civet, palm squirrel and more.

Birds include crane, black kite, crested serpent eagle, black vulture, Egyptian vulture, common peafowl, red jungle fowl, dove, parakeet, Indian roller can also be found in abundance. There is a large variety of reptiles too and these are cobra, krait, viper, ratsnake, python, turtle and a number of lizard varieties, including Varanus.

Apart from the above, the park also has special birds like Grey Hornbill, Common Teals, Red Jungle Fowl, and White-Breasted Kingfisher etc.

Bandhavgarh National Park Safari

To take a wildlife safari in Bandhavgarh National Park is the topmost reasons why people visit this green heaven. Lush forests, grasslands, rivers, streams, wild species, birds, and a visit by the royal tigers – all add up to an incredible natural experience that can only be felt. The safaris are well organized, safe, and carried out with keeping the all the cautions in mind.

1. Jeep Safari

An equal delight for adventure, nature, and wildlife lovers, a jeep safari in Bandhavgarh National Park will not only rejuvenate your senses but will also show you the raw power of nature. Cruising inside a 4 wheel drive open jeep with a forest official and passing through thick Sal forests, grasslands, streams in the company of a variety of birds and animals is more than an enthralling experience.

Best time for jeep safari: October to May (dry season)
Number of passengers allowed in a jeep: 6 (accompanied by one naturalist and one driver)
Timings: 6 am – 10 am (morning) & 4 pm until dusk

2. Safari Zones

Image Credits: Sudharshan Solairaj for Wikipedia

In total, there are 4 safari zones in Bandhavgarh National Park and out of these Tala and Magadhi have the highest concentration of animals.

Safari Zones & Safari Vehicles Allowed

Tala (Gate-1): 20 – 20
Magdhi (Gate-2): 20 – 20
Khitauli (Gate-3): 16 – 15
Bandhavgarh Fort: 5

3. Elephant Safari

Image Credits: Greg Montani for Pixabay

One of the best ways to witness glorious creatures of Bandhavgarh National Park especially the tigers is via the Elephant Safari. Witnessing majestic animals on the back of an elephant not only offers a person to do a tiger tour in an intimate manner but also enjoy a perfect elephant ride. This ride, however, can be attained only one the park management receives a written permission from the Field Director of Bandhavgarh.

11 Best Places To Visit In Bandhavgarh National Park

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Here is a list of all the top places that one should cover in Bandhav National Park. Each of this place has something magnificent to offer. Take a look!

1. Village Tala

Village Tala is one of the best places to visit in Bandhavgarh National Park since it offers an inside glimpse into the life and times of a typical village with all its ethnic charm. From the mud clustered houses to elders smoking hookahs on cots to the mesmerizing views surrounding the villages – this is a one of a kind experience that no traveler should ever miss.

2. Mahaman Pond

Located near the Bandhavgarh Fort, the Mahaman Pond is a beauty surrounded by bamboo clumps and herding wild creatures. Also known as the “Place of Quench the Thirst”, it is one place in the park where a variety of herbivores and carnivores can be found.

3. Kethika

Also known as the Pendanus Point, it is famous for its aromatic plant called Kewra which can be found amidst the Jammu and Arjun trees here. This plant is one of the floral specialties of the Bandhavgarh National Park.

4. Climber’s Point

This is one of the best places to see in Bandhavgarh National Park if you want to get an aerial view of the same. Filled with Sal and Bamboo trees, it is also home to some of the unique fauna species like Butea Superba and Bauhinia Wahlii. In other words, a perfect place for tourists who are looking for peace of mind amidst nature.

5. Bari Gufa

A man-made cave that is not only majestic in its architecture but also shows the impeccable architecture of the past. Dating back to the 10th century, it is believed Bari Gufa, meaning the “The Giant Cave” is the biggest man-made cave of the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.

6. Three Cave Point

Another of the fascinating places in the park, the Three Cave Point is a beautiful location filled with carvings of the ancient times. One can easily see the beautiful blend of architectural techniques used in earlier times here along with many wild animals like leopards, tigers, and sloth bears who live here.

7. Rajbahera

This marshy meadow can be viewed from the Bandhaini Hollock and is the place from where the river Dammer originates. It is one of the best places to see storks, vultures, chital, sambar, and wild pigs in the wild.

8. The Shesh Shaya

This is an amazing 11-meter long statue of Lord Vishnu in the laying position with an umbrella of “Shesh Nag” along with the “Shivling” and a “Lord Brahma” statue. It is situated on the main footpath entrance of the Bandhavgarh Fort is believed to have been built in the 10th century.

9. Cheshpur Water Fall

An excellent place for tourists to enjoy a picnic, the Cheshpur Waterfall is located 50 km from Bandhavgarh and is one of the best family places around for travelers.

10. Jwalamukhi Temple

Situated on the bank of Charan Ganga, this temple dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi was built in 10th century and is a delightful cum peaceful experience for all.

11. Fossil National Park

An excellent pick for nature lovers and historians, the Fossil National Park in Bandhavgarh is around 110 km away and holds floras in the fossil form between 40 million to 150 million years old. The huge park is spread in an area that is more than 274100 square meters and the fossil plants are found in the buffer area of the national park consisting of thee villages.

Top 5 Places To Visit Near Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is nestled amidst some of the most fun-filled and exciting destinations that are worth visiting. Here is a list of top places that one can visit after exploring the National Park!

1. Khajuraho

Image Credits: javieriborra for NeedPix

Known for the incredibly beautiful structures of temples that stand tall, Khajuraho is one its kind. Collectively known as the Khajuraho Group of Temples, this spot found a place under the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The carvings adorning the walls of temples in Khajuraho exhibit sensuality and were constructed under the command of rulers of the Chandela dynasty back in 950 AD. This town gives one an opportunity to explore both Hindu and Jain temples. Appealing to historians, there are innumerable structures and temples that are promoted as the synonyms of love and erotica.

Distance From Bandhavgarh National Park: 280 kilometers

2. Pench National Park

Image Credits: Ishani Mehta for Wikipedia

Another of the famous National parks in the central region of the country is Pench National Park. Attracting all the animal lovers, Pench National Park got its fame after it became a muse for Rudyard Kipling’s famous story, The Jungle Book. One of the few Project Tiger Reserves, this National Park is where there is no shortage of exotic flora and fauna to leave one in awe of wildlife. The lush teak forests that cover this destination calls for some picturesque and beautiful landscapes. The most commonly found wildlife species in the National Park, apart from the tigers, include Macaque, Langur, Leopard, Gaur, Blue Bulls, Civets, Wild Boars, and more.

Distance From Bandhavgarh National Park: 400 kilometers

3. Jabalpur

Image Credits: Hrithik thakur for Wikipedia

Dotted with eye-catching historic structures and blessed by mother nature immensely, Jabalpur is a town that offers the finest concoction of natural and man-made marvels over the years. Jabalpur leaves no stone unturned to impress a tourist with its massive gushing waterfalls and nature parks. This is one of the ancient cities of the country and is located on the banks of the pristine River Narmada. Apart from the rich history, this town also got its fame by virtue of the marble rocks that cover the floors. The pleasant weather throughout the year is just another plus to the experience.

Distance From Bandhavgarh National Park: 197 kilometers

4. Kanha National Park

Image Credits: Ashishmahaur for Wikipedia

Perhaps among the most famous national parks in the country, Kanha National Park is located in the proximity of Bandhav National Park, thus giving one a chance to cover both. This National Park got famous for being home to Barasingha aka Swamp Deer that can only be witnessed in this nature reserve. The stupendous views of the highlands from this spot is something that one tends to keep in their minds for long. There are several tiger tours that one can take when in Kanha National Park. The peculiar thing about this park is its shape which is in the form of an ‘8’.

Distance From Bandhavgarh National Park: 255 kilometers

5. Panna National Park

Image Credits: Anurag nashirabadkar for Wikipedia

Panna National Park is another one of the famous natural reserves that can be visited in Madhya Pradesh. Sitting on the lower southern hills of the Satpura ranges, this National Park gives one a chance to get closer to mother nature and its marvelous wonders. It was in 1995 that the National Park was declared as tiger reserves and was placed under the protection of Project Tiger. The zone of Panna is known for its rich cultural diversity as well as adventurous experiences that leaves the jaws dropped and adrenaline rushing.

Distance From Bandhavgarh National Park: 196 kilometers

Best Hotels & Resorts In Bandhavgarh National Park

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Bandhav National Park is surrounded by stay options that align with the pockets of every kind of traveler. Here are the top resorts for every budget!

High-End Luxury Resorts

1. Mahua Haveli
Tariff: From INR 32545

2. Syna Tiger Resort
Tariff: From INR 25500

Luxury Resorts

1. Tree House Hideaway Resort
Tariff: From INR 16000

2. Kings Lodge
Tariff: From INR 14000

Deluxe Resorts

1. Nature Heritage Resort
Tariff: From INR 5500

2. Tiger Trails Resort
Tariff: From INR 5200

Standard Resorts

1. Mogli Jungle Resort
From INR 5365

2. Salvan Resort
Tariff: From INR 13500

How To Reach Bandhavgarh National Park

The National Park is well-connected with all the major cities by means of airways, roadways, and railways. The best way to reach here is by taking a flight till Madhya Pradesh and then covering the remaining distance by road.

By Air: Take a flight from Delhi or Varanasi to Khajuraho and drive to Tala park entrance (8-hour drive) at the Bandhavgarh National Park.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Bandhavgarh National Park is Umaria and from here it is about 40 minutes drive to Nature Heritage. Alternatively, one can also take an overnight train from Delhi to Umaria and then drive (30 minutes) to the park.

Note: Only jeeps are available for transfers.

Do’s And Don’ts Of Bandhav National Park

Image Credits: Santanu Bahali for Wikipedia

Bandhav National Park is one of the well-preserved national parks that has certain rules and regulations to be followed by visitors. Here are a few do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind when visiting the National Park.

Make sure that the speed of your car is around 40-60 kilometers so that you can observe nature without disturbing the wildlife.
There are designated trails and roads. Always stay on those and do not wander off. Jungles can get pretty tricky.
Do not get out of the vehicle at any point. It is for your safety and for the safety of wildlife.
Keep in mind that it’s a national park and not a zoo. Animals live here freely. So, you may not be able to spot animals everywhere.
Do not litter. When in the park, you will be provided with a bag. Keep your litter in that bag and dispose of it once you are out of the premises.
Smoking or lighting campfires is strictly prohibited inside the Park.

Further Read: 40 Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh That You Should Be Visiting

All in all, Bandhavgarh National Park is a place with many delightful attractions. From an intimate tiger safari to exotic birds to 10th-century monuments and hundreds of million-year-old fossils – it has everything that you expect from a wildlife nature escapade! And yes, some amazing resorts too! So, don’t wait, start planning your trip to Madhya Pradesh now.

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