If you are a wildlife enthusiast or an adventure lover, Bandhavgarh National Park is a paradise for you. Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Bandhavgarh is one of the most popular national parks in India. It is famous for its rich flora and fauna, and of course, the majestic tiger. In this guide, I will take you through everything you need to know about Bandhavgarh National Park, including its history, location, wildlife, safari options, and more.
Introduction to Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is spread over an area of 105 square kilometers and is located in the Vindhya Hills. It was declared a national park in 1968, and in 1993, it was declared a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds.
Location and history of Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is approximately 197 km away from Jabalpur and 32 km away from Umaria. The park is named after the Bandhavgarh Fort, which is located inside the park and is believed to be more than 2000 years old.
The park has a rich history and was once the hunting ground of the Maharajas of Rewa. After independence, the park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1968, and later in 1993, it was declared a tiger reserve.
Flora and fauna of Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is known for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of flora, including Sal, Saja, Dhobin, and Jamun trees. The park is also home to a wide range of animals, including tigers, leopards, bison, wild boars, spotted deer, sambar deer, and more. The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with more than 250 species of birds found here.
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Bandhavgarh National Park is a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. The park is famous for its tiger population, and it is one of the best places in India to spot a tiger. The park has a high density of tigers, and the chances of spotting one are very high.
The park is divided into three zones – Tala, Magdhi, and Khitauli. The Tala zone is the most popular zone and is known for its high tiger density. The Magdhi zone is known for its beautiful landscapes and is home to a large number of birds. The Khitauli zone is less popular but is known for its beautiful meadows.
Bandhavgarh National Park Safari
The best way to explore Bandhavgarh National Park is through a safari. The park offers both Jeep and Elephant safaris. Jeep safaris are the most popular and are available in all three zones of the park. Elephant safaris are also available in the Tala zone of the park.
Tiger Safari in Bandhavgarh
Tiger safaris are the most popular activity in Bandhavgarh National Park. The best time to spot a tiger is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The park is closed during the monsoon season (July to October), and the best time to visit is from November to June.
Best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is from November to June. The park is closed during the monsoon season (July to October), and the weather during the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold. The summer months (March to June) are the best time to spot tigers, as they come out of the forest in search of water.
Accommodation in Bandhavgarh National Park – Resorts and Hotels
Bandhavgarh National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hotels. Some of the popular resorts in Bandhavgarh National Park include Taj Mahua Kothi, Tree House Hideaway, and Tiger’s Den Resort. Budget hotels like Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge and Aranyak Resort are also available.
Top things to do in Bandhavgarh National Park
Apart from tiger safaris, there are a number of other activities to do in Bandhavgarh National Park. Some of the popular activities include bird watching, nature walks, and visiting the Bandhavgarh Fort. The fort is located inside the park and is believed to be more than 2000 years old.
How to reach Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jabalpur, which is approximately 197 km away. The nearest railway station is Umaria, which is approximately 32 km away. The park is also well connected by road, and buses and taxis are available from nearby cities.
Bandhavgarh National Park Safari Packages
There are a number of safari packages available for Bandhavgarh National Park. These packages include accommodation, meals, and safari rides. Some of the popular safari packages include the Taj Safaris Bandhavgarh package and the Bandhavgarh Jungle Safari package.
Conclusion
Bandhavgarh National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and it is one of the best places in India to spot a tiger. With a range of accommodation options and safari packages available, planning a trip to Bandhavgarh National Park is easy. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the wild!
