Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the ‘Heart of India,’ is home to some of the most enthralling wildlife sanctuaries in the country. Among its many gems, Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks stand out as premier destinations for spotting the majestic Bengal tiger. These sanctuaries not only boast the highest density of tigers in India but also offer a diverse array of flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, and a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of India's wilderness. Embark on an ecstatic tiger tour through these iconic parks, following a thoughtfully curated itinerary from Jabalpur to Kanha, then Bandhavgarh, and back to Jabalpur, promising an unparalleled adventure for wildlife enthusiasts and serene moments in nature's lap.
Here's a suggested itinerary for an ecstatic tiger tour that begins and ends in Jabalpur, covering Kanha and Bandhavgarh.
1st Day of the Tour - Arrival in Jabalpur
Your journey begins in Jabalpur, a city known for its marble rocks and the Dhuandhar Falls. Upon arrival, take some time to explore the city's highlights. Visit the mesmerizing Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat and enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada River. The cascading Dhuandhar Falls are a sight to behold, especially when illuminated by the setting sun.
2nd Day of the Tour - Jabalpur to Kanha National Park and Evening Safari
Start your day early with a scenic drive from Jabalpur to Kanha National Park, approximately 125 km away. The drive through the lush green landscapes sets the tone for the adventure ahead. Upon reaching Kanha, check into your jungle lodge or resort. Get some rest after an early lunch and compose yourself for a late afternoon safari from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Enjoy a traditional dinner before retiring for the night, filled with anticipation for the next day's safari.
3rd Day of the Tour - Kanha Morning Safari and Transfer to Bandhavgarh
Kanha National Park, renowned for its significant population of tigers and barasingha (swamp deer), is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Your day begins with an early morning safari from 6:00 am to 11:30 am. Return to your lodge for breakfast and after some relaxation, pack up your bags to head towards the second wildlife haven - Bandhavgarh. Located approximately 215 km from Kanha, the drive will take upto 5 hours and you will reach Bandhavgarh by late evening. Loosen up at your room once you check into a hotel or a resort at Bandhavgarh.
4th Day of the Tour - Bandhavgarh Morning Safari and Bandhavgarh Fort Visit
Bandhavgarh is famous for possessing one of India's most concentrated populations of tigers, making it an excellent spot for observing these majestic animals. Bandhavgarh National Park is divided into three core zones: Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli. The Tala zone is the most popular, known for its frequent tiger sightings. Begin your day with an early morning safari in the Tala zone, where the chances of spotting a tiger are incredibly high. However, to get an affirmed booking, Bandhavgarh safari tickets must be reserved in advance, due to high demand. In the evening, explore the nearby Bandhavgarh Fort, which offers panoramic views of the park and its surroundings.
5th Day of the Tour - Bandhavgarh Morning Safari in a Buffer Zone and back to Jabalpur
Dedicate this day to exploring the buffer zones of Bandhavgarh, which offer a different perspective of the park's wildlife. These areas, less frequented by tourists, can provide quieter, more intimate encounters with the park's inhabitants. Apart from tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer and birds. After enjoying a morning safari from 6:00 am to 11:30 am, later in the day enjoy a nature walk or bird-watching session with a naturalist guide. After lunch head back towards Jabalpur, 190 km away, for an overnight stay.
6th Day of the Tour - Return journey from Jabalpur
After breakfast, it's time to conclude your thrilling tiger tour. You can either catch your flight or train back home or spend some more time exploring the city. The tour, filled with the excitement of tiger sightings and the serene beauty of Madhya Pradesh's landscapes, leaves you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Best Time to Execute the Tour (a bonus tip)
The best time to execute this eventful trip is from October to June, when the weather is conducive for exploration and wildlife sightings are at their peak. During these months, the temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable for safari excursions and outdoor activities. The winter months from November to February are particularly pleasant, with cool mornings and evenings perfect for exploring the marble rocks of Jabalpur and embarking on jungle safaris in Kanha and Bandhavgarh. As the summer approaches from March to June, the chances of spotting tigers increase significantly as they frequent water bodies to quench their thirst, offering visitors thrilling and memorable wildlife encounters.
