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    Bandhavgarh National Park Safari

    Hidden away in the Vindhyan mountain range of Madhya Pradesh, the Bandhavgarh National Park is a treat for nature lovers from all over the world. The park sprawls over an area of 820 sq km and is one of the most densely tiger-populated destinations in the world! The reserve is close to an area called Rewa, where the world’s first ever white tiger was spotted.

    What you’ll see

    The park is carpeted in over 300 species of flora, with Sal trees filling up the valleys and bamboo trees stretching across the lower regions of the hills. The rich flora is an ideal home for hundreds of exotic bird species, some native and many that migrate during the winters, like the black ibis, crimson breasted barbet, king vulture, purple sunbird and more.

    As you ride down the expansive landscapes, you’ll cross paths with beastly Bengal Tigers as the ranger talks you through the tales of famous tigers that lived within the forests and helped revive the species out of near-extinction. You’ll also find leopards, Sambar deer, chitals, sloth bears, langurs and various other mammals and reptiles.

    Bandhavgarh Safari Zones

    The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is split into three core zones, namely, Tala, Khitauli and Magadhi.

    The Tala zone is the most popular and has the highest population of tigers. It also has large meadows and waterbodies that are ideal for animal spotting, the Bandhavgarh Fort, a vulture’s nest and many other unique attractions. It also has an exquisite ecosystem where the fragrant Kewra plant flourishes.

    The Magadhi zone is another popular destination for nature lovers. Here, you can spot tigers, leopards and various herbivores lounging by the perennial water source during the summers. The Garhpuri Dam also attracts a massive number of native and migratory birds.

    The Kithauli zone is perfect for birdwatchers as its ponds and marshy grasslands invite flocks of migratory birds. It also has the renowned “Charger Point”, in loving memory of the mischievous male tiger named Charger which was one of the first Alphas of the region. It is also least frequented by tourists, so if you wish to have an offbeat experience, this is the zone for you!

    Recently, 3 buffer zones have also been added to reduce tourism in the core zones. The buffer zones are spread over Umaria and Katni and are named Dhamokhar, Panpatha, and Johila.

    Safari booking in Bandhavgarh National Park

    There are three ways you can enjoy the prolific nature of the Bandhavgarh National Park – safaris in a jeep, canter or on elephant back.

    Jeep safaris take you into the deepest corners of the park to witness the wilderness in its truest form. The timings are optimised for viewing the animals when they’re most active. Up to 6 people are allowed in one jeep at a time

    Canters are larger vehicles that can accommodate up to 18 people, making it perfect for big groups, but they’re only allowed in the Kithauli and Magadhi zones.

    The most enthralling experience, however, is on elephant back. This is the safest and best way to encounter tigers from a distance. While on the back of the gentle giant, you’ll slowly make your way through dense jungles and vast grasslands, spotting shy animals that may have been scared away by running engines and glaring lights.

    Where to stay

    There are ample resorts, lodges and hotels in the Tala region of the park. You can spend your days in the midst of the wilderness and enjoy quality time with your loved ones while being close to nature.

    Bandhavgarh National Park Safari Photos

    Sketch itinerary

    Day 1: Check in
    Enjoy a delicious lunch after checking in.
    Embark on a guided walk around Tala.
    Have some evening snacks and dinner.
    Overnight in hotel.

    Day 2: Safari and check out
    Experience the morning safari.
    Munch on your pre-packed breakfast.
    Say goodbye to the wild as you return to the hotel and check out.

    Detailed itinerary

    Day 1: Check in
    You will arrive at your hotel by lunch time and devour on a delicious Indian meal. Catch up on some rest and head out for a guided walk around the Tala zone of the park. As you return, enjoy some scrumptious evening snacks, followed by dinner. Retreat to your rooms and get ready for an early morning ahead.

    Day 2: Safari and check out
    Wake up in the early hours of the morning and enter the dense wilderness as you begin your jungle safari. You’ll enjoy a pre-packed breakfast during the safari. Return to the hotel by 11 AM, freshen up and say goodbye to the home of the wild.

    Inclusions

    One safari in Bandhavgarh
    Accommodation in hotels
    All meals and evening snacks
    Guided walk around Tala

    Sketch itinerary

    Day 1: Arrive at Bandhavgarh
    Morning pick up from Umaria railway station.
    Check in, relax and explore the resort
    Lunch, evening tea and dinner will be served,
    Overnight in resort.

    Day 2: Safari day
    Wake up call at 5 AM
    Embark on a 5-hour morning safari.
    Have lunch at the resort and get ready for the evening safari.
    Return to evening tea, followed by dinner.
    Overnight in resort.Day 3: Check out
    Relax in the morning and enjoy your breakfast.
    Part ways with the beautiful wilderness and check out.

    Detailed itinerary

    Day 1: Arrive at Bandhavgarh
    You will arrive at the Umaria Railway Station where pick up services will be arranged for you. At the resort, you can check into your rooms and spend the day at your leisure. After lunch, you can choose to explore the resort or lounge by the pool. Evening tea and snacks will also be provided. Dinner and overnight in resort.

    Day 2: Safari day
    Today is the day you will find wild beasts and other creatures roaming the forests they call home. Your wake-up call will be at 5 AM, followed by tea and snacks. Your safari will begin, taking you on a 4-hour ride deep into the jungle. You will return to the resort for lunch and prepare for your evening safari scheduled at 3:30 PM. You will be back in the comfort of your rooms by evening and enjoy some snacks and dinner. Overnight in resort.

    Day 3: Check out
    Today, you will have a calm morning and a scrumptious breakfast and say goodbye to the scenic beauty of Bandhavgarh. A drive to Umaria railway station will be arranged for you.

    Inclusions/Exclusions

    2 jungle safaris
    Accommodation at the resort
    All meals and evening snacks
    Transport to/from Umaria railway station

    Best time to go/Weather

    The Bandhavgarh National Park offers a beautiful safari experience for most of the year. Each season comes with different vistas and migratory species, so you must plan your visit based on what you wish to see on your safari.

    In the winter months of October to February, the flora all around has had a hefty dose of rejuvenation after the rains. The shrubs and trees are thick, green and lively with a chilly frost covering the forest floor. This is the most comfortable time to visit the Bandhavgarh national park and is also ideal for birdwatchers as the chill climate brings in throngs of migratory birds to add to the abundant native species.

    Summers between March and June are extremely hot, with temperatures peaking to 45 degrees Celsius. The season still sees a large number of visitors as this is the best time to spot the infamous striped beasts. With the sun beating down, the landscapes dry up completely, forming a staggering contrast to the lush winters. The lack of shrubbery and foliage makes it easy to spot tigers and leopards prowling the forest floor. You will also come across many mammals of the park as they head towards water bodies to stay cool.

    The park remains closed during the monsoon months of July to September due the monsoons and mating season.

    Safari booking for Bandhavgarh National Park is always at a peak, with tourists from around the world hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic tigers and the plentiful bird species. This is why there is easy accessibility to the park, ensuring that you can get there by using basic means of travel.

    By road
    The park is well connected to major cities nearby. You can hire a cab or private car and drive down from Umaria (45 minutes), Katni (2 hours), Jabalpur (4 hours), Khajuraho (5 hours) or the Kanha National Park (5 hours). You can also catch a bus ride from Jabalpur to the Tala zone of the park.

    By rail
    The railway station closest to the Bandhavgarh National Park is Umaria (45 minutes), followed by Katni (2 hours).

    By air
    Though the closest city to the park is Umaria, it does not have an airport. So, if you choose to travel by air, you will have to travel to Khajuraho or Jabalpur via domestic or international flights.

    On any safari, it’s always ideal to stick to earthy tones like mellow browns, khakis, olives and tans. This ensures that you don’t stand out against the natural surroundings as bright colours can make the wildlife weary and scare them away. Since you will be in an open vehicle, try to wear clothes that cover your arms and legs to protect yourself from the sun, dust particles and insects. Don’t forget to apply an SPF 50+ sunscreen and insect repellent. Wear sneakers or shoes that are comfortable and cover your feet.

    During summers, choose cotton or linen clothing as they are light and comfortable. In addition to your sunscreen, carry a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.  It’s also a great idea to keep a bandana handy that you can soak in water and drape over your neck and shoulders if the heat grows unbearable.

    During winters, layer your clothes and wear caps that cover and protect your ears from the cold winds. 

    While at the Bandhavgarh National Park, you must ensure that you carry an SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or a cap for sun protection. Keep a refillable water bottle on hand to stay hydrated throughout your long safari. A bottle of insect repellent is essential to protect yourself from insect bites. Jackets and winter caps are needed to shield yourself from the cold breeze. Most importantly, carry a fully charged camera with ample memory and a pair of binoculars so you can capture and witness all that the safari has to offer!

    You don’t need to undergo physical or fitness training for your safari at the Bandhavgarh national park. You’ll spend most of the day seated in your jeep with little to no walking around. For this reason, this safari is ideal for people of all age groups!

    Bandhavgarh National Park Safari - Frequently Asked Questions

    There is a unique magic during every season at Bandhavgarh. In the summer months between March and June, the dried-up vegetation makes it easy to spot tigers prowling the forests in search of prey. Many animals also head out in the open in search for water. During the months of October to February, the cool winter is ideal for migratory bird species. The landscape is lush from the rains that just departed and you will spot many mammals basking in the warm sun in the open grasslands. Between July and September, the park remains shut due to the monsoons and mating season.

    The park is well connected by road, air and rail. You can hire private vehicles from Umaria, Katni, Jabalpur, Khajuraho or Kanha national park to any entrance of the park or book a bus ride from Jabalpur to the Tala zone. The nearest airports are Jabalpur and Khajuraho (both for domestic and international travellers). The closest train station is Umaria, followed by Katni. You will have to travel to the park from the airports and stations via road.

    A jeep can accommodate up to 6 people whereas a canter holds up to 18. Elephant safaris are on a first come first serve basis, with only 3 people allowed per elephant.

    Yes, children are allowed but under the supervision of a guardian.

    The park is split into 3 core zones – Tala, Magdhi and Khitauli – and 3 buffer zones – Dhamokhar, Panpatha and Johila. All of these zones are accessible via jeep safaris and have their unique selections of flora and fauna.

    Layer your clothes during the winter and wear caps that cover your ears. You can take off your jackets during the warmest hours of the day, if needed. Wear muted colours and apply sunscreen and insect repellent irrespective of the weather.

    Light cotton or linen clothing will keep you cool in the hot summers. Carry sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Keep a bandana handy that you can soak in water and drape over your neck if it’s too hot.

    Yes, but you are requested to keep them on silent and refrain from speaking on the phone, playing music or using the flash.

    There are numerous hotels, resorts and lodges in the Tala zone of the park.