One
of the best places in India to see tigers in the wild is the Bandhavgarh
National Park. This was declared a national park in 1968 and has an area of 105
sq kms. Reaching the park is easy – it is a four-hour drive from Jabalpur,
which is the nearest point if you are arriving by air.
 |
| Tiger Emerging from the Forest |
The
park is open from mid October to mid June. Safaris need to be booked in advance
either directly or through the hotel one is staying in – and there are plenty
of resorts and hotels around Bandhavgarh to take care of everything. Limited numbers
of vehicles are allowed into the park at fixed times and fixed routes – 6.00 to
10.30 in the morning and 2.30 to 5.30 in the evening. You cannot get out of the
jeep once in the park.
 |
| The Tigress of Rajbehera on the move |
The
park is most famous for it’s tigers, which very often can be very elusive. We
were lucky to have 2 sightings of the majestic animals. Other animals in plenty
are the Sāmbhar deer, spotted deer, langurs and baboons. Leopards too can be
seen at times. The park has a variety of birds that can be spotted. When we
visited in November, it was lush green with some great scenery and landscapes.
Sunrise in the morning is a treat to watch.
In
the park is the famous 10th century Bandhavgarh fort on a hilltop.
Visitors are not allowed there but one can go to the man made caves lower on
the hill. There is also a historic 10th century statue of Lord Vishnu,
which should not be missed.
If
you love wildlife and are fond of nature, then a visit here is a must. Remember
to book in advance and to go for at least 4 safaris to ensure a tiger sighting
 | |||
| Tigress on the dam crossing over |
For more images of animals in Badhavgarh, please visit my website at
