Plan Your Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari: A Wildlife Journey Awaits

Words cannot describe the exciting thrill and fear of witnessing a tiger in real life during Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari. Expect this when you put on your safari suit to go on a wildlife expedition at the Bandhavgarh National Park. But why is this amazing wildlife in Madhya Pradesh one of the most sought-after destinations for a tiger safari?

Why Bandhavgarh is India’s Best Place for Tiger Sightings

Common folklore associates spotting a tiger with good luck, also representing courage and protection. It’s no wonder that seeing one is something to look forward to in a bandhavgarh tiger safari. However, you must know that tigers do not always roam about where you can see them instantly.

Tigers prefer avoiding humans as they are shy, and most often avoidant of our kind. So, you need to be patient enough to wait for a long time until the wild beast decides to pop out of the woods. This makes it all the more challenging for bandhavgarh tiger safaris to go as planned, with the expectation of spotting a tiger or two in close view.

Home to the Highest Tiger Density in the World

That said, when it comes to the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, you are bound to spot a tiger.

This park is known for housing the highest density of tiger population in India and the world. There are officially close to 165 tigers in the whole of Bandhavgarh. Furthermore, the safari area has about 40 tigers. This area of the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve spans approximately 105 sq km with a buffer area of about 400 sq km. Imagine being able to enjoy the regal gait of Tigers across this vast tropical forest of wildlife wonder!

Wildlife in Bandhavgarh National Park: More Than Just Tigers

Those who have seen tigers in their Bandhavgarh jungle safari narrate their experiences as the most amazing of all. These magnificently beautiful creatures are a sight for sore eyes, especially while one takes in the beauty of a tropical forest throughout the day. Remember, it is not just the final sight of a tiger but the entire journey of the safari that makes all the difference.

One of the travellers to this national park, Anuv Jain from Delhi, said, “Seeing a tiger up close was one of the rarest experiences I never thought I would have. The safari guides did a great job of making sure my family and I caught one of the tigers in sight at the right time. We waited for nearly two hours until a tiger was seen nearby. We were all so quiet so as not to scare it away. It walked past us; we were just a foot away.”

Another tourist, Hymansi Babu from Chennai, was fascinated as well, “My 9-year-old daughter read about tigers in her school book. The book had limited pictures, but seeing one in real life during our jungle safari in Bandhavgarh made her extremely thrilled and excited. She even bragged about it in school with her teachers and classmates.”

Beyond Tigers: Biodiversity and Scenic Beauty

There is no doubt that the Bandhavgarh National Park is a beautiful landscape of diverse flora and fauna. You can view its grasslands and hills as soon as you enter this park during your Bandhavgarh tiger safari. You will have the national park guides telling you about the Sal and Bamboo species available here, from which various combinations harbour the land.

Furthermore, the Sal Forest consists of various flora that serve in sustainable human well-being and, more importantly, ecological stability. They include species such as Bhirra, Palas, Saja, Tendu, Dhauda, Arjun, and Salai.

Spot Chitals, Langurs, Jackals & Over 250 Bird Species

When it comes to the creatures of the woods, you will find them in plenty. From monkeys, wild boars and Chitals to 80 species of butterflies, and 37 species of mammals. During your Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari, You may also spot chital, langurs, nilgai, chausingha, muntjac, and jackals. Among the 250 species of birds, you may catch a glimpse of the Indian Pitta, Shikra, Paradise Flycatcher, Long-billed Vulture, and the White backed Shama, among other birds. These are mostly visible in winter from October to December.

Cultural History and Conservation Legacy of Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari

Bandhav means Brother, while Garh translates to Fort. According to the great epic, Ramayana, Rama had gifted this land to his younger brother, Lakshmana, after the battle of Lanka. The fort is on the Bandhavgarh hill. It has man-made caves that have rock paintings and inscriptions on them.

History points out that local rulers lived in this fort before it gradually became desolate after the capital was moved to Rewa. Over time, this forest was used as a hunting reserve where maharajas, unfortunately, killed hundreds of tigers. Later, in 1968, Maharaja Martand Singh of Rewa suggested designating 105 sq km of the area as a national park. This establishment helped control poaching. With the safety measures taken, the wildlife population increased significantly. This further enlarged the Bandhavgarh National Park’s size to 448 sq km.

Also, Project Tiger in 1933 expanded its influence, encompassing an area of 694 sq km with a buffer area of 437 sq km. The number of tigers rose while the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve was officially established for the entirety of its region.

Bandhavgarh Safari Booking: Tips for Your Tiger Adventure

Not done your Bandhavgarh National Park Safari booking yet? Before you do, here are a few tips to help you prepare for this adventure.

• Book your trip at least four months as jeep access is limited for these safaris.
• Schedule your visit between October to June when the park opens.
• For officially entering the Bandhavgarh park, you will be asked to show the same ID you used while booking this Bandhavgarh tiger safari online.
• Have plenty of water, use sunscreen, wear a safari hat, and use sunglasses if you are visiting the national park during the summer season.
• During the winter season, wear woollen clothing.
• Wear neutral shades over bright colours to avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Talk softly or maintain silence at best. Avoid loud music.
• Carry binoculars and a camera to get the visual scenic beauty of the wildlife.
• Carry a scarf or face cover to protect your eyes and face from the dusty trails along the forest.
• Carry necessary medications and medical supplies that you need, especially during emergencies.

So, as you plan a Bandhavgarh tiger safari adventure to the Bandhavgarh National Park, be sure to follow the tips above. Reach out to people who have been on safaris so you can get an idea of what to and not to expect. The wildlife in Madhya Pradesh has a lot to offer in terms of the experience of witnessing nature at its best. Make sure you make the most of it, as it takes you away from the routine of city life.

FAQs About Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari

1. What is the best time to visit Bandhavgarh for tiger sightings?

A: The best time to visit is from October to June, but if you really want to catch a tiger sighting, summer months like March to May are your best bet.

2. Which zone in Bandhavgarh has the highest tiger sightings?

A: Tala zone has the highest tiger sightings. Magadhi and Khitauli also offer good chances.

3. Is it safe to go on a tiger safari in Bandhavgarh?

A: Yes, it’s safe. Expert guides and drivers are with you throughout the Bandhavgarh tiger safari.

4. What is the safari timing in Bandhavgarh National Park?

A: Safaris happen twice daily—morning around 6–11 AM and afternoon from 2:30–6 PM, depending on the season.

5. Which is better—morning or evening safari in Bandhavgarh?

A: Bandhavgarh Morning safaris are better for spotting tigers, while evenings are great for forest views and other wildlife.

6. Can I take my own vehicle inside Bandhavgarh for safari?

A: No, private vehicles aren’t allowed. You need to book a forest jeep with a guide for the Bandhavgarh tiger safari.