Exploring the Majesty of Bandhavgarh National Park
Overview
Nestled in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park stands as one of India’s premier wildlife destinations. Encompassing an expansive 1,536 square kilometers, this park boasts a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, coupled with breathtaking landscapes. Declared a tiger reserve in 1993 under the Project Tiger initiative, Bandhavgarh is renowned for its dense tiger population, one of the highest in the country. The majestic Royal Bengal tiger is the main attraction, drawing numerous visitors eager to witness this magnificent creature in its natural habitat.
Bandhavgarh National Park: Information
Bandhavgarh National Park holds a special place in Indian mythology. Its name is derived from a prominent hillock in the area, which, according to legend, was given by the Hindu deity Rama to his brother Lakshmana to monitor Lanka (Ceylon). “Bandhavgarh” literally means “Brother’s Fort,” a name rich in cultural significance.
The park is home to at least 37 species of mammals, over 250 species of birds, and various reptiles. Notable mammals include the Royal Bengal tiger, leopard, dhole, Indian fox, sloth bear, gaur, and sambar.
Key Details
- Size: 1,536 square kilometers
- Forest Type: Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest, predominantly Sal
Star Species
Bandhavgarh’s rich biodiversity makes it ecologically significant. The park is also a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, including the Bandhavgarh Fort, ancient caves, and rock paintings. It’s an ideal wildlife destination for visitors to India, offering luxurious accommodations within the park to enhance the adventure.
- Key Mammals: Royal Bengal tiger, leopard, dhole, Indian fox, sloth bear, gaur, sambar
- Key Birds: Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Black Naped Monarch, Common Rosefinch, Brown Fish Owl
How to Reach
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Umaria (35 km from the park) and Katni (100 km from the park). Cabs or taxis are available from these stations to the park.
- By Air: While Bandhavgarh lacks a major airport, the closest facility is in Jabalpur, about 170 km away, with connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Bhopal. Umaria district also has a small airstrip for private charters.
- By Road: Bandhavgarh is well connected to major cities in Madhya Pradesh. It is accessible from Umaria (35 km), Katni (100 km), Shahdol (97 km), Rewa (115 km), and Jabalpur (170 km) by cab or taxi.
Safari Zones
Bandhavgarh National Park is divided into three types of zones: Core, Buffer, and Reserved. The core zones, which are prime areas for wildlife sightings, include:
- Tala
- Maghdi
- Khitauli
Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in Central India, where the rich natural and cultural heritage of Bandhavgarh awaits.
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