Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is one of India’s most popular and reliable tiger reserves. Known for having the highest tiger density in the world, this former royal hunting ground is now a protected haven for wildlife.
If spotting a Royal Bengal Tiger in the wild is on your bucket list, Bandhavgarh should be at the top.
Location & How to Reach Bandhavgarh
- Nearest Airport: Jabalpur (170 km), Khajuraho (230 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Umaria (35 km), Katni (100 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Jabalpur, Khajuraho, and Satna
Travel Tip: From Jabalpur, a private cab takes around 4-5 hours through scenic MP countryside.
Safari Zones in Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh is divided into three core zones and several buffer zones.
Core Zones:
- Tala Zone – Most popular, highest tiger sightings, limited entries
- Magadhi Zone – Known for tiger cub sightings and dense vegetation
- Khitauli Zone – Less crowded, good for birdwatching and sloth bear
Buffer Zones:
- Dhamokhar, Johila, Panpatha, Manpur – ideal for night safaris and offbeat experiences
Pro Tip: For best tiger spotting, book your safari in Tala Zone during early morning slots.
Safari Timings & Booking Info
| Season | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| Oct – Feb | 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Mar – June | 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM | 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
- Closed: July 1 to September 30 (Monsoon)
- Booking Site: forest.mponline.gov.in (official MP forest department)
- Documents Needed: Valid government ID for all visitors
Wildlife Sightings in Bandhavgarh
Here’s what you can expect on your Bandhavgarh safari:
| Species | Sighting Chance |
| Royal Bengal Tiger | Very High |
| Leopard | Moderate |
| Sloth Bear | Moderate |
| Spotted Deer, Sambhar | Very High |
| Wild Boar, Jackal | Common |
| Birds (Hornbill, Owl, Eagles) | High |
Photography Tip: Use a zoom lens (200mm or more), and opt for the morning light for golden shots.
Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh
| Month | Experience |
| Oct – Feb | Pleasant weather, lush greenery, good sightings |
| Mar – June | Dry heat, highest tiger visibility near waterholes |
| July – Sept | Park closed due to monsoon |
What Else to See Around Bandhavgarh
- 🏯 Bandhavgarh Fort – Historic fort inside the forest (entry restricted but visible from Tala Zone)
- 🌳 Shesh Shaiya – Ancient reclining Vishnu statue in forest
- 🚣 Johila Waterfall – Ideal for a post-safari picnic
- 🕍 Khajuraho Temples – UNESCO site, 5–6 hours drive
Important Tips for Visitors
- 🎟️ Book safaris 2-3 months in advance (especially Tala Zone)
- 🧢 Wear neutral-colored clothes (avoid red, white)
- 🔇 Maintain silence to improve chances of sightings
- 🧴 Carry sunscreen, hat, water – it gets hot quickly
- 📷 Don’t use flash in the park – it disturbs wildlife