Thinking of the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers redirects the mind towards Bandhavgarh National Park, a wildlife gem in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. The national park proudly flaunts the highest density of tigers in Madhya Pradesh with the presence of about 135 tigers, according to the Tiger Census 2022.
Step on to a photography journey in Bandhavgarh, a haven for capturing the majestic Tigers in their natural environment. For the best photographic opportunities, explore the core zones of Tala, Magdhi, and Khitauli as part of this immersive learning tour. From Tigers to birds and all the movable elements within the dense flora of the forest, the photography experience encompasses a diverse range.
Tala and significant portions of Magadhi zones boast dominating sal forests and expansive open spaces, providing ample chances to experiment with intriguing compositions and landscape or habitat shots. Meanwhile, sections of Magadhi and the majority of the Khitauli zone feature bamboo forests, posing a unique challenge for photographers. In these situations, a guide's experience becomes invaluable as they share insights into shooting and composition techniques, ensuring you make the most of every photographic opportunity.
Capturing Tigers through Lens and Not Guns
This wonderful and enriching trip begins and ends at Jabalpur. Probe into the detailed itinerary. The photography tour at Bandhavgarh National Park is for 6 days. Except for the first and the last day, all four days will include open jeep safaris in both morning and evening slots.
Day 1 - Arrival at Jabalpur Airport or Railway Station and start immediately for Bandhavgarh National Park, escorted by the tour representative.
Bonus tip: It is better to book your accommodation in the nearest possible resort to the national park. Also, if possible, make your train o flight reservations that arrive during the early hours of the day. After meals and refreshments, the remaining hours of the day are free for your preparations for the upcoming expedition. Sit with your guide to discuss the proceedings of the photography tour.
Day 2 to 5 - Immerse completely in a full-day safari for these 4 days. To capture the best pictures take the safari rides on both the morning and evening slots.
Bonus tip: The early to mid-summer months are the best time to spot tigers in Bandhavgarh National Park. Therefore, plan for this trip anytime between March to May. Due to the hot and dry weather, tigers and other wild animals step out from their habitat in search of water. During summer, the morning safaris start from 5:30 am to 11:30 am and the evening safari operates from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Day 6 - Embark for the final morning jeep safari at Bandhavgarh National Park before leaving for Jabalpur for departure.
Bonus tip: Although the core zones are the best for this photography tour, however, if you have captured enough snaps in the core zone, also take a safari to the buffer zones at Dhamokar, Panpetha and Johilla. You never know, if luck favours, tigers can be spotted in these zones too. Other than tigers, Bengal foxes, Indian bison, leopards, sloth bears, sambar, striped hyenas and many more will be the bonus clicks saved into the memory card of your camera.
