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bandhavgarh national park

Bandhavgarh National Park

Location: Madhya Pradesh

Main Wildlife Attractions: Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopards, various species of Deer and Panthers

Coverage Area: 448 sq. km

Established: 1968

Best Time to Visit:October till June

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Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the country. It is located in the Umaria district in Madhya Pradesh and is famed for being the natural habitat of the Royal Bengal Tigers. This national park is widely famous for tiger spotting, jungle safari, and nature photography.



How to reach Bandhavgarh National Park

By Air

The nearest airport is in Jabalpur, which is around 164 km from Bandhavgarh. From the airport, you can rent a taxi to the park.

By Rail

The national park is easily connected to Jabalpur by road. Private and state-run buses and taxis are available between Umaria and Katni and from Satna and Rewa to Tala. Cabs are also available from Jabalpur, Bilaspur, and Khajuraho.

By Road

Some of the railway stations close to Bandhavgarh are Katni (102 km), Jabalpur (164 km), Satna (120 km), and Umaria (35 km).



Nestled in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park houses the highest population of the Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. Enjoying legendary and mythological significance, Bandhavgarh was a former hunting ground of the Maharajas. It is believed that the name of this park is derived from the ancient fort perched on a hillock. The fort is said to be bestowed by Lord Rama to his younger brother Lakshmana.

In this 2000-year old park, you will find numerous rock paintings and man-made caves. Apart from this, this national park is home to 80 species of butterflies, 250 species of birds, and 37 species of mammals. However, the White Tigers are one of the prime highlights of this national park. 

The wildlife in Bandhavgarh National Park covers various wild creatures, flora, and bird species. But it is widely famous for preserving tiger species. This drives many animal lovers, nature lovers, and photographers to Bandhavgarh. You may choose different ways to experience the wilderness by booking a customizable wildlife tour of Bandhavgarh National park by Indian Holiday. 

Here is complete guide about Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park Safari & Timings

Safari in Bandhavgarh National Park is one of those experiences that will stay in your heart forever. Through safari, you will be able to spot the different species of animals in the park. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is blessed with natural beauty, thrilling adventure, and tourist attractions.

You will get three modes to cover each element of this park by taking a Bandhavgarh jungle safari. Jeep ride, elephant ride, and canter are three safari modes to see the wildlife of this park. A guide will accompany you with each safari to ensure all the safety norms are being followed.Read more

Bandhavgarh National Park Safari Zones

There are three main zones in Bandhavgarh National Park, which are settled in the central part. These zones are an important part of wildlife tourism in Bandhavgarh, and no human habitation is allowed inside these core zones. You can choose any zone to explore the park and observe the wilderness. These safari zones are Tala Zone, Magadhi Zone, and Khitauli Zone.  

  • Tala Zone: It is one of the oldest and best safari zones in Bandhavgarh for tiger sightings. Apart from enjoying wildlife tourism, you can explore tourist attractions in this zone. Tala Zone is dotted with Badi Gufa, Siddha Baba, Sita Mandap, Three cave Points, and Ketkiha. 
  • Magadhi Zone: This is one of the beautiful safari zones of Bandhavgarh National Park and is known as Gate no. 2. It is blessed with grassland and dense forest and offers a scenic view. Magadhi is located in the park's southeast area and is well known for tiger sightings, just like the Tala Zone. 
  • Khitauli Zone: Khitauli Zone is well known as Gate no 3 in this national park. This forest area is one of the best places to see different birds and herbivores in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. It is located in the western part of the park and offers a great opportunity for nature photography. 

Wildlife in Bandhavgarh National Park

The rich biodiversity of Bandhavgarh National Park covers more than 22 species of birds and 250 species of birds. However, the Royal Bengal Tigers is the highlight of this national park. This natural habitat of animals will give you an incredible sight and experience of animal sightings. 

Bandhavgarh is home to many other animals like Wild Pigs, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chausingha, Nilgai, Chinkara, and Gaur. You can spot Leopard, Tiger, Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, and Jungle Cat. Observing the movement of animals through a wildlife safari in Bandhavgarh is an experience that leaves indelible marks on your heart forever.

National Park Opening & Closing Dates

Bandhavgarh National Park is open for visitors from mid-October to June. There is a slight difference in the timing of the gate for different seasons. Check out the complete details of opening and closing times for each season in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh National Park

The ideal time to visit Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is between November to March.

The weather is great for indulging in jungle safari fun during these months. If you are looking for tiger spotting in Bandhavgarh National Park, the summer season is suitable. 

During this season, the chances are high to spot wild animals in this national park of Madhya Pradesh. The park remains closed in the Monsoon season because of heavy rain, and the park's condition is not adequate for safari. 

Things to do at Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is a zone for adventure, wildlife, and historical significance. This national park has a strong bond with natural beauty and wilderness. Hence, the jungle safari, nature photography, and nature walks are the best things to do here. Whether you are a peace lover or want some thrilling experiences, choosing Bandhavgarh will never disappoint you. Check out the best things to do in Bandhavgarh to enjoy incredible wildlife tourism. 

  • Jungle Safari
  • Bird Watching
  • Nature Photography
  • Trekking
  • Exploring attractions

Places to Visit near Bandhavgarh National Park

This national park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, the central part of the country. There are many tourist attractions that you can visit after completing your wildlife tour in Bandhavgarh. Each tourist place gives you a unique experience that you can enjoy with your friends and family. Here is the list of the best tourist places near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve -

  • Chakradhar
  • Climbers Point
  • Gopalpur
  • Jwalamukhi Temple
  • Jabalpur 
  • Khajuraho Temple

Attractions in and around Bandhavgarh National Park 

  • White Tigers – Bandhavgarh National Park is home to several White Tigers
  • Jwalamukhi Temple – a 10th-century temple dedicated to Goddess Kali
  • Badi Gufa - The cave belongs to the 10th century and is carved out of solid sandstone rock
  • Bandhavgarh Fort A fort on a hill and having mythological importance
  • Three Cave Point – Ideal place to find tigers, leopards, and sloth bears