Like the allure of an abyss, the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, entices avid wildlife lovers and curious first-timers as well. It is one of the best places to spot tigers in India and has people flocking in each season to visit the best Bandhavgarh tourist places.
Exploring Bandhavgarh National Park’s Wildlife is one of the most rewarding things to do. Catching a trail and eventually spotting the tiger, spending time photographing it and understanding its behaviour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Set against the pristine backdrop of the Vindhya hills, these jungles are home to various wildlife species, including 37 species of mammals, over 250 species of birds, close to 70 species of butterflies and a large number of reptiles. The enchanting Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is blessed with diverse habitats such as rich sal forests, rocky and rugged mountainous terrain, sprawling meadows and tall bamboo groves.
How can you soak in the true magic that is Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve? By ensuring that the 6 activities mentioned below are added to your itinerary.
1. Jungle Safari
The jungles are undoubtedly the most popular Bandhavgarh Tourist Places. Going on a safari in these dense jungles gives you the chance to spot the opulent Bandhavgarh National park Wildlife against breathtaking natural backdrops.
The Bandhavgarh National Park is divided into three core zones. The Tala zone is the oldest and the prime zone which also houses the fort of Bandhavgarh, built splendidly on cliffs more than 800 metres above sea level. The other adjoining core zone is called Magadhi, which is probably the most celebrated and frequented zone, thanks to some of the most iconic and charismatic females and their cubs. The third zone which is separated by a road is called Khitauli. Although visited lesser than the other two core areas, tiger sightings do occur in this zone and one can expect to spot a lot of birds.
In 2015, to reduce the pressure of the number of tourists visiting the core zones, three buffer zones were added to the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Spread across the districts of Umaria and Katni, the buffer zones are called Dhamokhar, Panpatha and Johila. Tigers have been sighted in these areas as well! Unlike the core zones, which are closed during the monsoons (June-September), the buffers are open all year round. The Park is closed on Wednesday afternoons, and for Holi and Diwali.
Canter safaris do not happen in Tala zone, but only in Magadhi and Khitauli.
During the safari, one can expect to spot several species of animals and birds. One can either opt for the regular safaris or the more expensive full-day zone-free one. To know more Bandhavgarh National Park’s Wildlife safari, read our blog “How to Book a Bandhavgarh Safari?”.
2. Elephant Safari (Currently not available)
Apart from the jeep and canter safaris, one can also explore the forest on the back of an elephant. The elephant safari is one of the most thrilling things to do in Bandhavgarh, especially for children. Also known as the Elephant Joy Ride, the elephant safari is only allowed in the Tala zone and tourists can go only on a pre-decided route which has been marked by the authorities. The duration of the elephant safari is 30 minutes and a maximum of four people can go at one go. Elephant rides are unique because they allow one to get access to those forested areas which are not accessible by normal jeeps. This safari is booked on a first-come-first-served basis and costs about 1500 INR for adults. A discount of 50% is offered for children under the age of 12. Remember, preference is usually given to those who have booked a special full-day jeep safari.
3. The Shesh Shaiya
The Bandhavgarh National Park has a rich history of over2000 years! Even today, the fort and other archaic ruins are among the most popular Bandhavgarh tourist places. One such spots is the Shesh Shaiya - a reclining 35 foot-long stone statue of Lord Vishnu dating back to the 10th century. It is situated in the Tala zone, deep inside the forest, about halfway to the fort. The Lord’s head rests on the seven-hooded serpent called Shesh Naag.
A little stream, known as the Charan Ganga, flows from the statue's feet and is believed to have originated here. The Charan Ganga merges with the Sone River, a tributary of the holy Ganges and the lifeline of Bandhavgarh.
At this historic site, one can also spot statues of Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, completing the Holy Trinity of the Supreme Hindu Gods. Spending a few moments in silence in this sacred place can help you imbibe its positive energy and vibrations.
The Tala zone is also dotted with natural and manmade caves that probably contain the mysteries of the days of yore and can give one an insight into how these ancestral people lived. If the history of this ancient place excites you, you might want to read our blog “History of Bandhavgarh” for more.
4. Visit Bansagar Dam
Located 85 kilometres away from the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the Bansagar Dam is a colossal project, built forirrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The project named after the renowned Sanskrit scholar of the 7th century - Bana Bhatt, who is believed to have hailed from this region in India.
5. Cycling and Nature Trails
A few luxury resorts such as Pugdundee Safaris offer activities like cycling and nature walks. They even offer the services of their naturalists to accompany you through the villages and some of the buffer zones of the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
On these walks and explorations, you can also visit the local hamlets and get a peek into the culture and traditions of these rural indigenous communities.
6. Dance to the Beat of the Baiga music
Luxury resorts also invite the Baiga adivasis to perform their folk dance. One can interact with these local people after the show they put up just for the guests. The Baigas are a forest-dwelling, indigenous tribal community of Central India. They live close to the forest and are extremely knowledgeable about the medicinal and healing properties of plants and trees. Learning about their lifestyle and understanding their ways is a unique activity that you must try in Bandhavgarh.
Summing Up
Best known for its awe-inspiring habitats, its healthy population of tigers and their frequent sightings allowing one to make evocative frames, Bandhavgarh offers much more than just charismatic big cats. There are several activities and Bandhavgarh tourist places that complete the experience. You can immerse yourself in nature, dip into myth and history, mingle with the locals and visit amazing sites within 100 km square of the priced reserve. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a truly unique destination and it will revitalise you. We hope our blog has ensured that you have added it to your bucket list! Fancy a visit soon?
