BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK
The Bandhavgarh National Park lies in the eastern Satpura hill range. It lies between Umaria and the Katani district of Madhya Pradesh. Bandhavgarh National Park came into existence as Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in 1993.
Historical Connections of Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh has existed for 2000 years in Indian history. It holds a legendary significance in the whole world. One can see the traces of several man-made caves even today. The caves have inscriptions and beautiful rock paintings.
The name Bandhavgarh is likely to have mythological connections. “Bandhavgarh” comprises of two words- Bandhav meaning ‘Brother’ and Garh meaning ‘Fort’. The fort is said to be given to brother Lakshman by Lord Ram to keep an eye on Lanka.
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is world-famous for the high density of Royal Bengal Tigers. Apart from that- 34 species of mammals, 260 species of birds and 70 species of butterfly have been listed. It has rich flora and fauna which also holds unique existence in biodiversity.
Wildlife in Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh is known for having an incredible variety of wildlife. This is one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts in Madhya Pradesh. If you are looking to have some wildlife experience, you are at the right place. Bandhavgarh not only has rich wildlife but also offers you a blend of history and culture.
Bandhavgarh is renowned for offering a thrilling day with a Tiger Safari. This place is replete with many opportunities to let you cherish your time. It also provides Hot Air Balloon Safari. Rather, it becomes the first National Park to launch a Hot Air Balloon Safari in January 2021. You can maximize the thrill and excitement as an adventure enthusiast with these balloon safaris.
Bandhavgarh National Park keeps the tourists hooked with some adventure activities. There are many splendid places to visit here. Bandhavgarh National Park safari is one of the best things to do here. You can also catch a sight of wild animals like the Royal Bengal tiger and leopards firsthand. And, you must enjoy the thrill it delivers.
STRUCTURE OF BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK
The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is divided into two zones. These are the Core area and Buffer area.
With an area of 716.90 sq km, the ‘Core Area’ of Bandhavgarh National Park includes three main zones. These are Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauni. And, Tala is the richest zone in the context of biodiversity. The core area is adjoined by the Buffer Area of Tiger Reserve with an area of 820.03 sq km. The buffer zone has three areas namely Dhamokhar, Johila, and Panpatha.
FLORA AND FAUNA OF BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK
Bandhavgarh National Park has incredible Flora and Fauna. It not only has rich biodiversity but also offers more than you can think. It is best known for the Evergreen Sal forest. Also, it has about 515 species in the mixed forest category.
The park is home to 34 species of Mammals, 260 species of birds, and 70 species of butterfly. Many species of reptiles and insects are also found there. All the white tigers of the world trace their roots to Bandhavgarh. The major mammals are Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dog, Black Buck, and Cheetah. People can spot these animals in the jungle during Safari.
MAJOR NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
- Badi Gufa
- Sheesh Shaiya
- Baghel Museum
- Three Cave Point
- Bandhavgarh Fort
Badi Gufa
As the name itself depicts, Badi Gufa is one of the biggest caves in the Bandhavgarh National Park. Badi Gufa is one of the caves built on the sandstone hillocks of the Bandhavgarh Hills. It dates back to the 10th century and is considered the oldest of all caves. If we look into the history of these caves, the purpose of their existence is still a mystery. At present, these caves are home to various wildlife species. Animals of the Bandhavgarh National Park live in these caves.
Bandhavgarh Fort
The Bandhavgarh Fort is located 811 meters above the Bandhavgarh National Park. According to mythology, the fort is said to be gifted to brother Lakshman by Lord Ram to keep an eye on Lanka. Bandhav means Brother and Garh means Fort. So, this oldest fort of India unfolds the legend of Lord Ram in Ramayana. Later in other periods, it holds significance as it became the center of many rulers for ages. Centuries passed, dynasties changed and, many rulers came and go. Still today; the fort exists with equal importance.
Sheesh Shaiya
The Sheesh Shaiya is another famous attraction of Bandhavgarh National Park. It is a 65 ft tall statue of Lord Vishnu. Bandhavgarh National Park is rich in various aspects. It has a blend of culture, nature, history, and more. It also blesses us with various things which are even hard to believe sometimes. The rare statue of reclining Lord Vishnu is in the Bandhavgarh National Park. The statue dates back to the 10th century. It is in the Tala Zone of Bandhavgarh National Park. The people can visit here via Jeep Safari.
Three Cave Point
The Three Cave Point in Bandhavgarh National Park is famous for its carving. Even in ancient times, it was technical and sophisticated. It is one of the mesmerizing spots of Bandhavgarh National Park. At present, the three cave points are home to many wildlife faunas. They are leopards, tigers, and sloth bears.
Baghel Museum
The Baghel Museum is a must-visit place in Bandhavgarh. The Museum is famous for keeping the belongings of the Maharaja of Rewa. This museum also showcases the stuffed body of the first white tiger, called Mohan. The tiger was spotted by the Maharaja of Rewa.
Safari
Bandhavgarh National Park is the first National Park of India which not only facilitates you with Jeep Safari but also with Hot Air Balloon. It sounds very exciting as you can visit the corners of the Jungle through Jeep Safari and capture the wide view from the sky itself.
Jeep Safari
Bandhavgarh National Park is a beautiful place to visit if you want to see wildlife. And what if the sun is setting and you get the chance to unfold the darkest secrets of the Jungles. It sounds more exciting as in Bandhavgarh National Park, you can have Day Safari as well as Night Safari.
The night jungle safari takes you through the park’s dark forest. You can spot nighttime wildlife lurking in the woods. You can see wildlife animals such as white tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and deer. 250 varieties of birds live in the Bandhavgarh National Park.
The morning jeep safari timings are 6.30 am in winter and 6.00 am in summer. The afternoon safari starts at 2.30 pm during winters and 3.00 pm in summer. The Night Safari timings are 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Bandhavgarh National Park is the first to launch the Hot Air Balloon safari by January 2021. It has become more popular amongst adventure enthusiasts and wildlife seekers. The journey starts from the buffer zone of the Bandhavgarh National Park. And, it takes you to the exterior part of it. The tourists will get an aerial view of the entire landscape of Bandhavgarh. It will be an experience like never before.
The capacity of the hot air balloon can take 9 passengers and it’s loaded with all safety measures. As far as charges are concerned, Indian Pan cardholders can book it at Rs.75000. Also, all the taxes for a balloon carrying 1 to 4 persons and Rs. 1 lakh for 5 to 8 persons. The hot air balloon ride will last 45 minutes.
Read more about Hot Air Balloon safari- https://www.fabmytrip.com/blog/hot-air-balloon-safari-in-bandhavgarh-national-park-madhya-pradesh/
Best Time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park remains closed between July and October. May is the hottest month while December is the coldest month to visit. Accordingly, October-March is considered the best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park. April and May is the best time to see Tigers. During this time, the vegetation is dry and sparse. And, wildlife comes to waterholes to drink water.
Hotel Accomodation
Standard – The Sun Resort, Bandhav Vilas
Delux- Hotel Tigergarh, The Mogli Resort
Premium- Syna Resort, Lemon Tree
The Sun Resort- Bandhavgarh
The Sun Resort in Bandhavgarh takes your soul and heart into the depths of Bandhavgarh. The place is bestowed with innate remarkableness to the core. The Sun Resort mainly focuses on the vast wildlife array of this place.
Highlights
- Outdoor Pool
- Well and Spa
- Village Tours
- Nature Trek after safari
- Tribal Dance and Tents on reuest
Accomodation
AC/Non-AC rooms and AC/Non-AC Dormitory
- Television
- Complimentary Internet Access
- Complimentary Breakfast
- In-room Safe
- Laundry Service
- Wardrobe
- 24-hour Room Service
Bandhav Vilas
The Bandhav Vilas is a luxury jungle resort on the edge of the Bandhavgarh tiger reserve. It is among the Vindhya Hills. One can experience the natural beauty of the wilds. It is a perfect base to explore the territory of the majestic tiger.
Highlights
- 24 Hour Front Desk
- Multi Cuisine Restaurant
- Safe Deposit Box
- Spa
- Safari
- Swimming Pool
- Laundry
- Mini Bar
Accomodation
- All villas have a bedroom, dressing area, and spacious bathroom. It also provides private courtyard with rain shower and a private deck.
- All rooms are air-conditioned. It facilitates you with colour television, tea coffee maker, Wi-Fi, hair dryer & a bicycle.
- En-suite bathrooms facilitates with hot & cold water, herbal accessories and fine linen.
- Bandhav Vilas provied signature bathrobes and slippers.
Refer to the link for more details- https://www.bandhavvilas.com/
The Mogli Resort
Mogli Jungle Resort is situated around 2kms from Bandhavgarh National Park. It is surrounded by lush green forests adjoining the perennial river Charanganga. It is fully equipped with all modern amenities. Activities at Bandhavgarh National Park include Jungle Safari.
Highlights
- Restaurent
- Swimming Pool
- Parking
- Wifi
- TV
- AC
- Housekeeping
- 24 hours rooms service
Refer to the link for more details – mogliresorts.com
Hotel Tigergarh
The Hotel Tigergarh is a beautiful property located in the historically rich city of Bandhavgarh.
Highlghts
- Spacious rooms
- Well furnished with modern amenities
- TV, Tea and Coffee Maker facilities
- Laundry services
- Indoor and Outdoor Games
- Swimming Pool
- Doctor on call
Refer to link for more details – https://www.tigergarh.com/
Lemon Tree Hotels, Bandhavgarh
The Lemon Tree Hotels at Bandhavgarh are a few yards from the Tala Entry Gate. The hotel has vibrant interiors, stone floorings, and wooden textures. It has ample greenery with modern amenities.
Highlights
- Multi-cuisine restaurant
- Citrus cafe
- Swimming pool
- Conference Room
- Wifi
- Fitness Centre
- Transportation
Refer to the link for more details-https://www.lemontreehotels.com/
Syna Tiger Resort
The SYNA Tiger Resort is a luxurious wilderness resort offering accommodation. It provides standard services and wilderness harmony for a holistic wilderness experience. SYNA Tiger Resort is in the buffer zone of Bandhavgarh National Park. It is 200 meters from the National Park entrance (Tala gate) near a tribal village.
The boutique cottages at Syna reflect the cultural history of India. It includes the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam, Tripura, Karnataka, and Kerala. Expect rural artworks, statues, and hints of tribal culture. Each cottage features an air conditioning veranda with forest views. It also provides a separate seating area.
Refer to the link for more details- http://synatigerresort.com/
How to Reach
Since Bandhavgarh doesn’t have any Railway Station or Airport of its own. The route connects to other cities. One can reach Bandhavgarh from Jabalpur, Nagpur, Umaria, Katani, or Khajuraho. There are 6 entry points in the Bandhavgarh National Park. 3 entry points are in the Buffer Zone and 3 in the Core Area of the Bandhavgarh National Park.
Nearest Railway Station- Umariya, Katani, and Jabalpur are the nearest railway stations.
Nearest Airport- Jabalpur, Khajuraho, and Nagpur are the nearest airports.
Major Distances:
Tala Entry Point from
Umaria- 32 kms
Katani- 100 kms
Jabalpur- 167 kms
Khitauli Entry Point from
Katani- 90 kms
Umaria- 37 kms
Jabalpur- 159 kms
Magadhi Entry Point from
Umaria- 38 kms
Katani- 90 kms
Jabalpur- 159 kms
Pachpedi Entry Point from
Katani- 63 kms
Jabalpur- 148 ms
Umaria- 55 kms
Cechpur Entry Point from
Katani- 116 kms
Umaria- 32 kms
Jabalpur- 185 kms
Parsai Entry Point from
Umaria- 44 kms
Katani- 83 kms
Jabalpur- 152 kms
One can book a taxi from the airport or railway station to reach Bandhavgarh. You can also book a traveler to take you to Bandhavgarh National Park.
