Bandhavgarh National Park
About bandhavgarh national park
Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh is located in the Vindhya mountain range. Its core area is 105 square kilometers and the buffer area is approximately 400 square kilometers.
The entire area is covered by steep slopes, undulating forests and open grasslands. Bandhavgarh National Park is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. The tiger population density in Bandhavgarh is the highest in India as well as in the world.
A famous natural center for white tigers, the park was formerly the hunting sanctuary of the Maharaja of Rewa. A few miles from here, the first white tigers were found in Rewa, which is now a popular attraction in zoos around the world. Bandhavgarh is also credited with the origin of all the white tigers in the world. The terrain is uneven, with rocky hills running east and west. In between are grassy swamps and forested valleys.
Safari Zones in bandhavgarh
Core Zones
- Tala Zone: The most popular zone with the highest tiger sightings, scenic meadows, and historical Bandhavgarh Fort.
- Magadhi Zone: Known for open grasslands and multiple waterholes, great for spotting tigers, leopards, and herbivores.
- Khitauli Zone: A quieter zone, excellent for leopard sightings and birdwatching.
Buffer Zones
- Dhamokhar Gate: Offers peaceful safaris with fewer vehicles and good chances of tiger and sloth bear sightings.
- Johila (Kalwa) Gate: Dense forest area, ideal for bird lovers and photographers.
- Panpatha Gate: Known for offbeat experiences and sightings of jackals, hyenas, and deer species.
- Pachpedi Gate: A remote zone, perfect for travelers who want to explore less crowded trails.
Flora and Fauna in bandhavgarh
Flora of Bandhavgarh National Park
Sal (Shorea robusta): The dominant tree species forming the dense green canopy of the park.
Saja (Terminalia tomentosa): A hardwood tree contributing to forest diversity.
Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Provides food and shelter for herbivores and smaller wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Known for its sweet-scented flowers, used for food and local beverages.
Palash (Butea monosperma): Famous for its bright orange flowers, adding color to the forest during spring.
Dhaoda (Anogeissus latifolia): Medium-sized tree strengthening the forest structure.
Medicinal Herbs & Shrubs: The park hosts a variety of plants with traditional medicinal value.
Fauna of Bandhavgarh National Park
Bengal Tiger : The star attraction of Bandhavgarh, with one of the highest densities of tigers in India.
Leopard: Elusive and solitary, often seen in buffer zones.
Sloth Bear: Insect-eating nocturnal species, sometimes seen crossing safari tracks.
Wild Dog / Dhole : Pack hunters frequently spotted in open areas.
Hyena (Hyaenidae family): Rare sightings but present in the park’s buffer areas.
Gaur (Indian Bison): The largest herbivore in the park, usually seen grazing in herds.
Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor): A key prey species for tigers, found near waterholes.
Chital : Spotted deer, the most commonly seen herbivore in the park.
Birds: Over 240 species including Malabar pied hornbill, crested serpent eagle, peafowl, and vultures.
How to Reach Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible from major cities.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur (160 km), followed by Khajuraho (225 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or private cab to reach the park.
By Train: The closest railway station is Umaria (32 km), with frequent trains from cities like Jabalpur, Katni, and Delhi.
By Road: Bandhavgarh is connected by good roads. You can drive from Jabalpur (approx. 4 hours) or Katni (approx. 2.5 hours).
Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh National Park
The park is open from October to June every year and remains closed during the monsoon (July–September).
October–February: Pleasant weather, ideal for photography and birdwatching.
March–June: Hot summer months but the best time for tiger sightings as animals visit waterholes frequently.
For the best experience, plan early morning or evening safaris when wildlife activity is at its peak.
Best Bandhavgarh Jungle Safari Packages
Bandhavgarh Tour Package
- 2N / 3D
- 2 Jungle
- Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh Tour Package from Jabalpur
- 3N/4D
- 3 Safaris
- Bandhavgarh
Kanha & Bandhavgarh Tour Package
- 6N/7D
- 3 Safaris
- Kahna /Band
