Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, located in the eastern Satpura hill range of Umaria and Katni districts of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Mythologically the name “Bandhavgarh” means (Bandhav = Brother and garh = Fort) and was acquire the name Bandhavgarh with the name of the fort. This fort was built and given to brother Lakshman by Lord Rama, to keep a watch on lanka. It is famous for its high density of Bengal tigers and rich biodiversity. Spread over 1,536 sq km, the park is divided into core and buffer zones, offering an exhilarating experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
HOW TO REACH BANDHAVGARH TIGER RESERVE
By Air
- The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport (Dumna Airport), about 165 km away.
- Other options: Khajuraho Airport (237 km) and Varanasi Airport (355 km).
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bandhavgarh.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Umaria Railway Station (35 km)
- Other options: Katni Junction (100 km) and Jabalpur Railway Station (165 km)
- Regular taxis and buses are available from these stations.
By Road
- Bandhavgarh is well connected by road to major cities:
- Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh: 165 km (4-hour drive)
- Khajuraho to Bandhavgarh: 237 km (5.5-hour drive)
- Varanasi to Bandhavgarh: 355 km (7-hour drive)
- Regular buses and taxis operate from these locations.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- October to June: Ideal for wildlife sightings
- November to March: Pleasant weather, best for safaris
- April to June: Hot but excellent for tiger spotting
- July to September: Park remains closed due to the monsoon season
SAFARI DETAILS
Bandhavgarh offers thrilling jeep safaris and canter safaris to explore its various zones:
- Core Zones – Tala, Maghadhi & Khitauli
- Buffer Zones – Panpatha, Dhamokhar & Johila
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: Zones, Entry Gates | |||
Zone | Timing of Safari | Entry Gate | |
For Full Vehicle | For Single Seat | ||
Khitauli | Morning | Khitauli | Tala |
Evening | Khitauli | Tala | |
Tala | Morning/ Evening | Tala | Tala |
Evening | Pachpedi | – | |
Maghadhi | Morning | Maghadhi | Tala |
Evening | Maghadhi | Tala | |
Dhamokhar | Morning/ Evening | Parasi | Not Available |
Johila | Morning/ Evening | Cechpur/ Gajwahi | Not Available |
Panpatha | Morning | Pachpedi | Not Available |
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve: Zones, Entry Gates | |||
Zone | Timing of Safari | Entry Gate | |
For Full Vehicle | For Single Seat | ||
Khitauli | Morning | Khitauli | Tala |
Evening | Khitauli | Tala | |
Tala | Morning/ Evening | Tala | Tala |
Evening | Pachpedi | – | |
Maghadhi | Morning | Maghadhi | Tala |
Evening | Maghadhi | Tala | |
Dhamokhar | Morning/ Evening | Parasi | Not Available |
Johila | Morning/ Evening | Cechpur/ Gajwahi | Not Available |
Panpatha | Morning | Pachpedi | Not Available |
Zone Entry Gates | Nearby City/ Distance |
Tala | Umariya (32 Km) |
Khitauli | Umaria (37 Km) |
Maghadhi | Umaria (38 Km) |
Pachpedi | Umaria (55 Km) |
Cechpur | Umaria (32 Km) |
Parasi | Umaria (44 Km) |
Zone Entry Gates | Nearby City/ Distance |
Tala | Umariya (32 Km) |
Khitauli | Umaria (37 Km) |
Maghadhi | Umaria (38 Km) |
Pachpedi | Umaria (55 Km) |
Cechpur | Umaria (32 Km) |
Parasi | Umaria (44 Km) |
SAFARI TIMING
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM (varies by season)
- Evening Safari: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
- Night Safari (Buffer Zone Only): 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
| Vehicle Type | Zone Type | Normal Date Fee | Premium Date Fee |
Indian | Single Seat | Core | 400 | 500 |
Full Vehicle | Core | 2400 | 3000 | |
Foreigner | Single Seat | Core | 800 | 1000 |
Full Vehicle | Core | 4800 | 6000 | |
Indian & Foreigner | Full Vehicle | Buffer | 1200 | 1200 |
Note: MPOnline portal fee will be added to the above prices at the time of online booking | ||||
| Vehicle Type | Zone Type | Normal Date Fee | Premium Date Fee |
Indian | Single Seat | Core | 400 | 500 |
Full Vehicle | Core | 2400 | 3000 | |
Foreigner | Single Seat | Core | 800 | 1000 |
Full Vehicle | Core | 4800 | 6000 | |
Indian & Foreigner | Full Vehicle | Buffer | 1200 | 1200 |
Note: MPOnline portal fee will be added to the above prices at the time of online booking | ||||
HOW TO BOOK SAFARI
Online Booking: Visit the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website https://forest.mponline.gov.in/
- Every Day at 11:00 A.M. Safari Booking of 120th Day will be opened
- In the event that a Registered Vehicle is unavailable at Madhav Tiger Reserve for safari, the park management may permit the use of a Private Vehicle at standard buffer rates.
- Offline Booking: Available at the park entrance, but online booking is recommended for confirmed slots.
- Documents Required: ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
- Guides & Naturalists: Mandatory and assigned during booking
ACCOMMODATIONAL OPTIONS
Bandhavgarh offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury jungle resorts.
Forest Rest Houses
- Bandhavgarh Forest Rest House: Official accommodation facility is available in Tala inside forest colony. Accommodation can be booked in advance during the office hour (1030-1730 hrs) over Phone No. 07653 – 222214, Email- fdbnp.umr@mp.gov.in or ddbgad@mp.gov.in. On spot payment facility is only applicable and the right of reservation lies with the Field Director, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
Private Hotels & Resorts
Private Hotels are also present near Gates which can be booked by the Tourists by contacting the respective Hotel Management.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Entry Fees
- Indian Nationals: INR 1,500 per person (approx.)
- Foreign Nationals: INR 2,500 per person (approx.)
- Camera Fees: Additional charges apply for professional photography
Rules & Guidelines
- Always follow the guide’s instructions.
- Do not litter or feed animals.
- Maintain silence and avoid loud noises.
- Flash photography is prohibited.
Nearby Attractions
- Bandhavgarh Fort: An ancient fort with stunning views and historical significance.
- Shesh Shaiya: A rock-carved statue of Lord Vishnu, believed to be centuries old.
- Baghel Museum: Showcasing artifacts and hunting memorabilia of Maharaja Rewa.
- Cheshpur Waterfall: A scenic spot perfect for relaxation.