Bandhavgarh

A former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa, Bandhavgarh National Park is situated in Madhya Pradesh district of India. A famous hub for Asian tigers or Royal Bengal Tigers which are also known as white tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park covers a majority of Vindhya hills and sloping forested valleys of central India. As per Mythology, Lord Rama build the Bandhavgarh Fort for his brother Laxman during the Ramayana period. However, Bandhavgarh was ruled by ex-rulers of Rewa State.

It was declared a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1993 and is among the highest Tiger population parks in India. Bandhavgarh National Park consists of an area of 448 square kilometers and has 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. The primate group of animals is represented by Common Langurs and Rhesus Macaque. the Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Ratel, Gray Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard and Tiger make up for the Carnivores population in the park. Mammals include Dhole, the smallIndian Civet, Palm Squirrel and Lesser Bandicoot Rat are seen occasionally. Gaur is the only coarse feeder in the herbivores category.

Places to See

Apart from the wild animals, there are other places of tourist interest inside the National Park. During your wildlife safari, you may visit the ancient caves and a huge statue of a reclining Vishnu dating back to 10th Century. For photography enthusiasts, drive to till the end of the park and you will reach elephant enclosure and herds of elephants along with young elephants provide ample opportunity to shoot the rare photos on elephant’s movement in Jungles. .

Baghel Museum

A walking distance from the park and a storehouse of precious collections of the things related to Maharaja of Rewa used or procured during his hunting spree. The museum has a collection of few hunting equipments and military weapons and stuffed body of Mohan, the first white tiger spotted by the Maharaja himself.

Bandhavgarh Fort

The oldest fort in India and considered to be more than 2500 years, the fort remains one of the main attraction for the tourists visiting Bandhavgarh. The fort has been built on a hill and is 2625 feet high, while1000 feet above the countryside surrounding the fort.

One can also find the existence of the fort during Ramayana period. The references of the fort are found in Narad-Panch Ratra and the Siva Purana which is the religious literature.

One has to procure permission in advance to visit the fort and has to take a trek of one hour to reach up to the fort.

Climbers Point

Bandhavgarh is a forest full of Sal and Bamboo trees. Visit Climbers Point to have a glimpse of the scenic beauty. The place is quiet peaceful and one can spend sometime taking solace from the noise.

The Shesh Shaya

The sculptures of Tripolia – the three main gods of Hindu religion, Brahma, Vishnu & Shiva are situated. Vishnu in a resting mode with umbrella of "Shesh Nag" is a big influence for Hindus all over India.

Things to Do

Jeep safari

Riding on a Jeep or on elephant’s back are the two options to visit the Bandhavgarh National Park. And, you are not allowed to travel in the Park without a Jeep and a guide. The jeeps and Elephants are authorized by the “Forest Department of India”. Private vehicles arer not allowed inside the park.

Early morning and late afternoon are the best time for the game drives. 4WD Gypsys are commonly used for safaris

Three hours Jeep safaris provide you a chance to go inside the jungles and explore flora and fauna on offer in the area.

The tigers- mainly are tracked by on elephant’s back.

Most of the wildlife is seen from the Jeeps, but the star attraction - the Tigers - are tracked each morning by elephant. The Safari lasts about 3 hours before the park closes at lunch time.

 

Elephant Treks

A naturalist from forest department is provided for Tiger – tracking on Elephant. On spotting a Tiger, you will be taken near to the Tiger. The guide/naturalist always help and instruct you from time to time about the feasibility of watching the wildlife at a certain point and also providing details on no entry zones.