Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, nestled in the heart of India’s Madhya Pradesh, boasts one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in the world, set against a backdrop of rich biodiversity and historical relics like the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort. This sanctuary offers a profound glimpse into the untamed beauty and ecological significance of India’s wildlife heritage.
1,427 km2
Mix Deciduous Forest with prominent Sal & Teak Vegetation
Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Bison, Wild Boar, Sambar Deer
Oriental Honey Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Roller, Malabar Pied Hornbill
Nestled within the heart of Madhya Pradesh, the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve stands as a sanctuary where wilderness reigns supreme, inviting both the intrepid and the curious to behold the splendor of the Royal Bengal Tiger, India’s cherished national emblem. More than a mere haven for tiger enthusiasts, it is a vibrant mosaic of biodiversity, brimming with rare species and a diverse avian populace, captivating wildlife aficionados and birdwatchers alike.
Bandhavgarh’s landscape is a captivating tableau of dense forests, intricate bamboo thickets, and expansive grasslands, intersected by meandering streams that provide an ideal backdrop for the elusive tiger. Through dedicated conservation efforts and skilled management, the reserve has thrived, witnessing a notable rise in tiger populations, earning it a place among the premier sanctuaries boasting a high density of these majestic predators. Within specially designated tourism zones, visitors are granted unparalleled opportunities to witness the grandeur of these big cats amidst a wealth of prey.
Beyond its ecological treasures, Bandhavgarh is steeped in history, with the iconic Bandhavgarh Fort, ancient caves, and mystical rock paintings narrating a rich tale of human civilization spanning centuries. Encompassing the core areas of Bandhavgarh National Park and Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary, alongside a meticulously preserved buffer zone, this reserve forms a vital refuge for wildlife and a bastion of natural heritage, beckoning all who dare to explore its depths to uncover the unbridled beauty of Bandhavgarh, where nature and history coalesce in eternal harmony.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, approximately 200 kilometers away. Jabalpur is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai with regular flights. From the airport, we can organize an air-conditioned vehicle to transfer you to your hotel, near the park.
The closest railway station is Umaria, located about 35 kilometers from Bandhavgarh. Umaria is connected to major cities such as Delhi, Agra, and Jabalpur. From the station, an air-conditioned vehicle can be organized by us to take our guests directly to the hotel.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Bandhavgarh is known for having one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in the world. This makes it one of the best places in India for tiger sightings, offering visitors a high chance of spotting these majestic predators in their natural habitat.
The park is named after the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, which sits atop a hill in the center of the park. The fort is believed to be over 2,000 years old and is steeped in mythological and historical significance, with references to it in ancient texts and legends.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is from October to June. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Winter (October to February): This period offers cool and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 20°C (36°F to 68°F). It is an ideal time for safaris, as the weather is comfortable, and wildlife sightings are frequent. The lush green landscape after the monsoon adds to the park’s beauty.
Summer (March to June): Although temperatures can rise to 35°C to 45°C (95°F to 113°F), summer is an excellent time for spotting tigers and other wildlife. As water sources dry up, animals are more likely to be seen near the remaining water bodies. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are particularly rewarding during this time.
Monsoon (July to September): The park is closed during the monsoon season for maintenance and to allow the wildlife to breed without disturbance. The heavy rains can make the terrain challenging and reduce the chances of wildlife sightings.
Overall, the months from October to June provide the best conditions for visiting Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, offering optimal weather and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is divided into three main zones, each accessible through specific gates. The zones and their respective gates are:
1. Tala Zone:
Tala Gate: The most popular and frequented zone, known for high tiger sighting chances and rich biodiversity.
2. Magadhi Zone:
Magadhi Gate: Another prime zone for wildlife sightings, offering a good chance to spot tigers and other wildlife.
3. Khitauli Zone:
Khitauli Gate: Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this zone also provides good opportunities for spotting wildlife, including leopards and birds.
Additionally, there are buffer zones that offer wildlife sightings and can be accessed through different gates:
4. Panpatha Zone:
Dhamokhar Gate: Provides access to the buffer area, offering unique wildlife experiences.
5. Dhubri Zone:
Dhubri Gate: Another entry point for exploring the buffer zone of the reserve.
Each zone offers a unique experience and it is advisable to book safaris in advance to secure entry through your preferred gate.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation.
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust for all months
Shop our exclusive Into The Wild dust buffs crafted from breathable bamboo fibre → Shop Now
Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
| Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve Safari Timings | ||
| Time Period | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| 15th Oct – 15th Feb | 6:30am to 11:00am | 2:30pm to 5:30pm |
| 16th Feb – 31st Mar | 6:00am to 11:00am | 3:00pm to 6:00pm |
| 1st Apr – 30th Jun | 5:30am to 10:00am | 4:00pm to 7:00pm |
Always try to reach the gate, along with the safari permits and valid IDs, at least 30 minutes before the gate opening.
The park management holds the right to change the safari timings as per their discretion, hence it’s advisable to always check the timing closer to your travel dates.
Spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is a matter of chance. For wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, planning a 3-5 day trip to Bandhavgarh National Park is ideal. This duration allows ample time to explore the region’s surrounding attractions and offers multiple opportunities to take safaris, thereby increasing your chances of witnessing a tiger in the wild.
Bandhavgarh National Park experiences a tropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. During the summer months (April to June), temperatures range from 35°C to 45°C. In contrast, winter temperatures (November to February) vary from 2°C to 20°C.
We had a superb time in Badhavgarh! We stayed at the Kings Lodge and had some amazing sightings across all 4 of our safaris.. right from the pick up at the airport, to the safari co-ordination and the entire stay, the Into The Wild guys took care of everything. Super happy with the way everything was managed! Kudos.