Travel to Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state in India by area and is the heart of India because of its geographical location. Surrounded by Uttar Pradesh in north, Chattisgarh in east, Gujrat and Rajasthan in the West and Maharashtra in south this is a landlocked state.
This state is home to major forests in India and is a major spot of Eco-Tourism. Wide variety of flora and fauna are available in these forest ranges and is the most cherished destination of forest lovers.
This state is home to ten National Parks like Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Satpura National Park, Sanjay National Park, Madhav National Park, Van Vihar National Park, Mandla Plant Fossils National Park, Panna National Park, Pench National Park.
Amongst them Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna, and Satpura National Parks are managed as Project Tiger areas. Thus this state provides a wide choice to traveller interested in flora and fauna.
Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh Forest Reserve is a National Park known for its serene beauty and diverse variety of fauna. This National Park has the highest density of tiger population in India. Located in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh this forests expands over 400 Sq kilometres with about 105 Sq kilometres of core area of tiger.
The topographical area of forest consists of planes, hills plateau and lakes. This place is also a historic place where it is considered that Ram and Laskhmana spent time in this forests. This forest contains the only statue of lord Vishnu lying in the serpent ‘SheshNaag’ coils and believed to be thousands of years old. Popularly known as the statue of Shesh Saiya is the last motor able point in this forest. The core area of forest starts from here.
Travellers usually catch the amazing glimpses of Royal Bengal Tiger. This forests is also largest breeding ground of Leopards. Nilgai, Indian Bison, Wolf, striped hyena, spotted deer are available in plenty. This forest is home to a number of reptiles.
This forest is also a paradise for bird watchers with varied species of birds, butterflies and cranes. Large mammals like Elephants also forms the forests bio diversity.
By Air: The nearest Airport for Bandhavgarh National Park are Jabalpur & Khajuraho. Jabalpur is about 200 kilometres from Bandhavgarh and it takes about 4 hours to reach. Khajuraho is about 250 kilometres and it takes about 5 hours to reach Bandhavgarh. Hired taxis are available from both the places.
By Rail: Katni is the nearest major train station that is well connected to other parts of India. Bandhavgarh is about 102 kilometres and hired taxis are available from Katni Station it takes about 2 hours to reach Bandhavgarh.
By Road: Bandhavgarh National Park is well connected by road to all the nearby cities. One can reach Bandhavgarh from places like Satna, Umaria, Jabalpur, Khajuraho. The roads are good and travel time depends upon distance from origin.
Lemon Tree Wildlife Resort: This resort is situated in the heart of the forest, amidst the dense expanse of towering Sal trees. This beautiful nature retreat is just a few yards away from Tala Gate, the most Tiger inhabited zone of Bandhavgarh National Park. Spread over 5 acres, and surrounded by lush green wilderness, this refreshing resort dressed in warm hues and reddish terracotta stone offers a tranquil jungle experience like none other. Rooms are neat and clean with all the amenities. With wonderful staff and good food this place is ideal for staying.
Tiger’s Den Resort: This hotel offers guests an array of room amenities including a refrigerator air conditioning and free internet. The property also features a pool and free breakfast. Guests arriving by vehicle have access to free parking. Good food and wonderful staff.
White Tiger Forest Lodge: This Resort is maintained by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department and is neat and clean,and at a very good location near to all jungle gate and market. Staff is very friendly, food is good they have a buffet for all meal. Lush green trees all around.
Bandhavgarh National Park remain open for visitors from 15th October to 30th June.
Afternoon shift of Jeep Safari remain close for visitors on every Wednesday. Morning & Afternoon both the shift remain close on Holi festival.
Safari trips are organised by the forest department for the benefit of travellers. Open Jeeps with groups of tourists, individuals accompanied by naturalist are allowed into the park at fixed timings. There are two shifts the Morning Shift and the Afternoon Shift.
Morning Shift: The timing of this shift vary depending upon availability of sunlight
06:30 Hrs to 11:00 Hrs (15th Oct to 15th Feb)
06:00 Hrs to 11:00 Hrs (16th Feb to 31st Mar)
05:30 Hrs to 10:00 Hrs (01st Apr to 30th Jun)Afternoon Shift: The timing of this shift vary depending upon availability of sunlight
14:30 Hrs to 17:30 Hrs (15th Oct to 15th Feb)
15:00 Hrs to 18:00 Hrs (16th Feb to 31st Mar)
16:00 Hrs to 19:00 Hrs (01st Apr to 30th Jun)Items required for Jeep Safari
Full Name of every visitor
Passport Size photo
Age & Gender
Nationality
Any Identity proof details like Passport, Driving License, PAN Card, Aadhar Card or Voter Id card. Visitor is required to carry the same ID proof in original at the time of visiting the national park.