Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most popular national parks in India. It covers an area of 105 square kilometers and is known for its dense forest, hilly terrain, and rich biodiversity. The park is famous for its high population of Royal Bengal tigers and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is approximately 197 kilometers away from the city of Jabalpur and 35 kilometers from the town of Umaria. The park is spread across the tropical forests and grasslands of the region, with streams, rocky hills, and meadows making up its diverse landscape.
The park remains open from October to June every year. The opening and closing timings of the park vary depending on the season. Generally, the park is open for visitors from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the evening.
The entry fee for Bandhavgarh National Park varies for Indian and foreign nationals. For Indian visitors, the entry fee is INR 1500 per person, while for foreign nationals, the fee is INR 2500 per person. Additionally, there may be charges for vehicle entry and camera fees.
Bandhavgarh National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is known for its dense vegetation, including Sal trees, bamboo, and grasslands. The park is also home to numerous animal species, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian bison, leopard, sambar deer, and various species of birds and reptiles.
Visitors to Bandhavgarh National Park can indulge in a range of activities, including jeep safaris, elephant safaris, bird watching, and nature walks. The park is ideal for wildlife photography and offers opportunities to witness the diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
The charges for jeep safari in Bandhavgarh National Park vary depending on the zone and the duration of the safari. On average, the cost of a jeep safari ranges from INR 4000 to INR 6000 per safari. It is advisable to book safari tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
For entry into Bandhavgarh National Park, the age criteria and entry fees are as follows:
Bandhavgarh National Park provides special facilities for senior citizens, including discounted entry fees, wheelchair access, and assistance from park staff. Senior citizens above the age of 60 can avail of these facilities by presenting valid identification documents.
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife sightings are more frequent. However, the park remains open from October to June, allowing visitors to explore its beauty throughout the year.
There are several places of interest near Bandhavgarh National Park that visitors can explore, including:
Bandhavgarh National Park provides ample parking facilities for visitors who wish to bring their vehicles. There are designated parking areas near the park entrance where visitors can safely park their cars or bikes while they explore the park.
Visitors to Bandhavgarh National Park are required to adhere to the following rules and regulations:
Bandhavgarh National Park can be easily reached by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is in Jabalpur, approximately 197 kilometers away from the park. Umaria is the nearest railway station, located 35 kilometers from the park. Visitors can also travel by road from nearby cities like Jabalpur, Katni, and Rewa to reach the park.
For accommodation, there are several wildlife resorts and lodges near Bandhavgarh National Park that offer comfortable stay options for visitors. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Overall, Bandhavgarh National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to witness the majestic Royal Bengal tigers in their natural habitat amidst the lush greenery of the park.