During a Bandhavgarh safari, this magnificent Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) walking confidently along the forest trail. The dry leaves crackled beneath its paws as it moved silently through the Sal and bamboo forest. Encounters like these make Bandhavgarh one of the best places in India for tiger sightings, offering wildlife enthusiasts a chance to see the big cat in its natural habitat.
Bengal Tigers and Other Wildlife
The Bengal tiger is the star predator of Bandhavgarh, but the park’s biodiversity is outstanding. Wild herbivores like sambar, chital and nilgai roam the forests, as do langurs and wild boars. Even if a tiger stays hidden, the abundance of deer, monkeys and birds makes every safari exciting.
Safari Zones: Tala, Magadhi, Khitauli
Bandhavgarh’s 716 km² core area (Tiger Reserve) is divided into three safari zones.
Tala Zone (Gate 1): The original “Tiger Capital,” Tala has dense Sal forests, open meadows and rocky hills
Magadhi Zone (Gate 2): Green and scenic, Magadhi features bamboo groves and grassy clearings
Khitauli Zone (Gate 3): In contrast, Khitauli has open plains and sparse woodland
It’s ideal for herbivores like blue bulls and chinkaras, and a variety of birds
Tiger encounters here are rarer, but Khitauli offers tranquil drives and excellent birdwatching.
All three zones welcome visitors year-round, but Tala is the most popular for tiger safaris. (Magadhi and Khitauli are quieter alternatives.) No matter which zone you choose, a skilled guide will take you to the best vantage points for wildlife.