Bandhavgarh National Park is a treasured gem in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. Known for having one of the highest tiger densities in India, this park offers an incredible chance to spot the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. Apart from tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to leopards, sloth bears, deer, and over 250 bird species, making it a fantastic destination for a wildlife safari. The lush green forests, dramatic rocky hills, and ancient caves scattered across the landscape add to the park’s charm, offering a mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty.
If you're planning a Bandhavgarh safari from Hyderabad, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Though the park is located far from the city, reaching it is quite manageable with the right travel plan. Whether you prefer flights, trains, or road trips, several options can get you to this wildlife haven with ease. Plus, choosing the best safari zones, ideal travel seasons and accommodation options can enhance your journey. This guide covers everything you need to know, from how to reach Bandhavgarh from Hyderabad to the best safari experiences, ensuring a smooth and memorable wildlife adventure.
Reaching Bandhavgarh from Hyderabad
By Flight: The fastest and most convenient way to reach Bandhavgarh from Hyderabad is by taking a flight to Jabalpur. There are two direct flights per day from Hyderabad to Jabalpur, making air travel a time-saving option. From Jabalpur Airport, you will need to take road transport to cover the remaining 184 km to Bandhavgarh, which takes approximately 4 hours by car.
By Train: If you prefer train travel, there is one train from Hyderabad to Katni, which also passes through Jabalpur. Katni is about 94 km from Bandhavgarh, while Jabalpur is around 204 km away. A taxi or bus is required from either railway station to complete the journey to the national park.
By Road Transport: Road transport plays a crucial role in reaching Bandhavgarh, especially for travellers coming from Jabalpur Airport or Jabalpur and Katni Railway Stations. If you choose to drive the entire distance from Hyderabad to Bandhavgarh, be prepared for a long journey of approximately 962 km, which takes around 18-19 hours via the Srinagar-Kanyakumari Highway (NH-44). Due to the long duration, most travellers prefer flights or trains and then continue by road.
A Detailed Tour Plan for Bandhavgarh Tiger Safari from Hyderabad
Day 1: Arrival in Bandhavgarh and Evening Safari
Your adventurous tour begins with your arrival in Bandhavgarh, either via Jabalpur or Katni. Check in to your wildlife resort near the park. After a refreshing welcome drink and lunch, it’s time for your first evening jeep safari. With a little luck, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive tiger on your very first drive. After the safari, return to the resort, enjoy a delicious dinner, and rest for the night.
Day 2: Morning Safari and Leisure Time
Wake up early for a morning jeep safari. Tala, Magadhi and Khitauli are the most popular safari zones of Bandhavgarh. To secure your safari in these core zones Bandhavgarh online booking of safari is the key. The fresh jungle air, coupled with the enchanting sounds of chirping birds, makes for an unforgettable experience. Your expert naturalist and guide will take you through the best spots in the forest, increasing your chances of tiger sightings.
After returning from the safari, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the resort and relax for the rest of the morning. You can indulge in optional activities such as nature walks or birdwatching. Post-lunch, you can choose to visit the local tribal villages to get a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous communities or embark on a safari to visit Bandhavgarh Fort in the Tala Zone.
Day 3: Morning and Evening Jeep Safari
This day is dedicated entirely to exploring the different safari zones of Bandhavgarh. Start your day with another early morning jeep safari, venturing deeper into the core zones of the park. In case of unavailability in the core zones, you can opt for the buffer zones - Panpatha, Johilla and Dhamokar. In the afternoon, gear up for your final evening safari in a different zone of the park.
Day 4: Departure from Bandhavgarh
On the last day of your trip, wake up at a leisurely pace, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and prepare for departure. Depending on your travel arrangements, you will be driven back to Jabalpur or Katni for your return flight or train journey to Hyderabad.
