Embark on a captivating exploration into the heart of India, where wild tigers roam amidst ancient mysteries. Bandhavgarh National Park, a jewel of Madhya Pradesh, beckons nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from around the globe. This park's captivating allure stems not only from the chance to encounter the majestic Royal Bengal tiger but also from the intriguing history whispered by the Bandhavgarh Fort.
Nestled amidst the Satpura mountain range in the Umaria-Shahdol district, Bandhavgarh National Park boasts a breathtaking landscape. Located at the northeastern edge of Madhya Pradesh, with coordinates spanning 23°30' to 23°46' N and 80° 11' to 80°36' E, the park features 32 rolling hills, culminating in a central natural fort that offers unparalleled views. Elevations range from 410 meters (1,345 ft) to 810 meters (2,657 ft), creating a diverse topography. While the park encompasses a vast 1161 sq. km area, tourists primarily explore the 105 sq. km Tala Range, renowned for its abundant wildlife.
Bandhavgarh National Park experiences a moderate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers, lasting from April to June, can be challenging with scorching sunlight and occasional heatwaves. Peak summer temperatures can reach up to 45 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season arrives in late June, bringing life-giving rains from July to October. The park remains closed to visitors during this monsoon period. Winter descends upon Bandhavgarh National Park in November, lingering until March. Mornings can be refreshingly cool, with temperatures dipping to 5°C, while daytime highs hover around 18°C.
The park welcomes visitors from October 16th to June 30th, drawing thousands of tourists eager to witness its wonders. The park remains closed for the rest of the year, and even during open season, evening safaris are not available on Wednesdays. To experience Bandhavgarh National Park at its finest, plan your visit between October and April.
Bandhavgarh National Park boasts excellent connectivity by air, road, and rail.
Divided into four distinct zones - Tala, Magadhi, Panpatha, and Khitauli - Bandhavgarh National Park showcases a rich tapestry of plant life. The Tala zone reigns supreme in terms of biodiversity.
As you venture into the park, be greeted by a majestic Sal forest blanketing the valleys and lower slopes. Gradually, this transitions into a mixed deciduous forest on the hills and hotter, drier areas in the south and west.
Bandhavgarh National Park is a haven for a dazzling array of wildlife. The park is home to a staggering 37 species of mammals, over 250 species of birds, and a remarkable 80 species of butterflies. Keep your eyes peeled for creatures like:
Bandhavgarh National Park offers more than just stunning wildlife. Explore ancient caves and ruins, decipher inscriptions, and marvel at prehistoric rock paintings. The park ignites a sense of wonder in all who visit.
Two exhilarating safari options await you in Bandhavgarh National Park: jeep safaris and elephant safaris.
The most popular choice, jeep safaris are a cost-effective way to explore the park. Choose from a full-jeep safari, where you have the entire jeep to yourselves with a guide and driver, or a single-seat safari, where you share a jeep with other tourists. A guide is mandatory on all safaris. The park's three main safari zones - Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli - are all accessible by jeep. For optimal wildlife viewing, schedule your jeep safaris for dawn to 10 am or 4 pm to dusk, when animals are most active.
While pricier and requiring advanced booking, elephant safari offer a unique opportunity to get closer to wildlife while enjoying a more tranquil experience.
Elephant safaris are available when the forest department uses elephants for morning tiger tracking.
Important Note Don't forget to carry valid ID proof like a passport, driver's license, PAN card, or voter ID card.
For a truly enriching experience, extend your stay beyond the park and explore the captivating sights surrounding Bandhavgarh National Park.
