Delhi, the capital of India is blessed with the best sources to commute to all parts of the country and beyond. To get a brief respite from the routine, which at times turns out to be monotonous and energy-draining, plan a quick getaway to the central state of India, which boasts a rich wildlife population. Bandhavgarh National Park, in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, houses the largest tiger population. If you're planning a wildlife adventure from New Delhi to Bandhavgarh, this travel guide provides you with all the essential information to make your journey smooth and memorable.

To Reach Bandhavgarh from Delhi

To begin with the journey, the first thing is to ascertain how to reach the land of tigers. The nearest railhead to the national park is Umaria Railway Station at a distance of 32.5 km and the nearest airport is at Jabalpur at a distance of 185 km. The best way to reach Bandhavgarh from Delhi is to board a flight from Delhi to Jabalpur and cover the rest of the distance by road. Reaching Umaria by train from Delhi is time-consuming, and it takes around 15 hours to cover the journey. Whereas, by flight, you will be reaching Jabalpur in 1&½ hours and reach Bandhavgarh from Jabalpur Airport in 4&½ hours. So the entire journey is wrapped up in 7-8 hours. 

Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh

The perfect time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is during the winter months, from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. This period offers excellent wildlife sightings, as the animals are more active during the cooler temperatures. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July to September) as the park remains closed due to heavy rains.

The Bandhavgarh Diary - Experience the Best Wildlife Safari

Bandhavgarh offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from luxurious wildlife resorts, comfortable jungle lodges, or budget-friendly guesthouses. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability and secure the best deals. Check into your pre-booked accommodation and prepare yourself for the upcoming wildlife sojourn.

Bandhavgarh Jeep Safari

Bandhavgarh National Park offers open jeep safaris for wildlife enthusiasts. Jeep safaris are the most popular choice, providing a thrilling opportunity to explore the park's diverse landscapes and spot a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. It is always best to secure Bandhavgarh safari booking tickets well in advance to enjoy a hassle-free wildlife safari experience. 

Safaris in Bandhavgarh are conducted in two shifts on a daily basis, in the early morning and late afternoon. The morning safari usually commences at sunrise, while the afternoon safari starts later in the day and continues until sunset. Each safari session lasts for approximately 3-4 hours, allowing ample time for wildlife sightings and photography. The exact time of the jeep safari changes with the season. Bandhavgarh National Park is divided into multiple safari zones categorised under core and buffer areas, each offering unique terrain and wildlife experiences. Tala Zone is the most popular and renowned for its high density of tigers, while other zones like Magdhi and Khitauli offer equally rewarding wildlife encounters.

Local and Other Attractions 

Apart from wildlife safaris, Bandhavgarh offers opportunities to explore nearby attractions.

• Village Visits: Interact with local communities such as the Baiga and Gond tribes, known for their unique culture and traditions.

• Bandhavgarh Fort: A historic fort located within the national park, offering panoramic views of the surroundings.

• Shesh Shaiya: Referred to as "the sleeping serpent," is a massive sandstone statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on a bed of coiled snakes. Spanning 65 feet, it is set amidst the lush greenery of Bandhavgarh National Park.

• Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks around the park's periphery to spot birds, butterflies and other smaller wildlife