Although a relatively small park, in the last few years this former game reserve has become one of India's most prominent National Parks and busiest!. The major reason for all the interest is Bandhavgarh's high density of tigers, which roam the mixed forests of sal and bamboo in search of an easy kill. Tigers such as Sita and Charger immortilsied by National Geographic, and more recently Dhitoo, Mohini and Sita Bachi, have not only bolstered the local population by breeding successfully, they have also brought international media attention to the park and the plight of the Bengal Tiger. For the last few seasons Bandhavgarh has provided the best chance of seeing tigers in India; it's popularity means that in peak season it can get crowded and as a result we would like to see a jeep limit brought in to protect the wildlife.

Bandhavgarh is set amongst the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh and consists of a core area of 105 sq km and a buffer area of approximately 400 sq. km. Topography varies between steep ridges, undulating forest and open meadows, over half of the park is tree-covered. The ruins of the ancient fort from which this park derives its name provides a stunning backdrop. Scattered around the park are archaeological remains of the Kalchin period and numerous prehistoric caves.

The Maharaja of Rewa was the last occupier of the fort, and managed the surrounding forest to increase his chances of a good hunt until giving the land to the state for it to become a National Park in 1968. Between morning and afternoon safaris it is well worth getting permission to climb the 1000 feet to the fort (currently out of bounds) , passing ancient carvings that represent the incarnations of Vishnu. From many vantage points you have stunning views across the park, looking down on soaring vultures and rare Malabar and Gray Hornbills.

In addition to the tiger it is also possible to see chausingha (small four horned antelope), chinkara, nilgai, barking deer, leopard, sloth bear, indian dhole (wild dog), rhesus macaque. Over 150 bird species are listed including Paradise Fly Catchers, Golden and Black Headed Orioles, Yellow Ioras, Purple Sunbirds and Red Vented Bulbuls. Since there are no large bodies of water, migrants are relatively few, there are many streams but few are permanent.

Most visitors to Bandhavgarh enthuse about the elephant safaris, which although not unique to this park are certainly amongst the best for wildlife viewing. The elephants used are extremely well trained and when moved forward by a good Mahout provide the passengers with a wonderful outlook over any wildlife encountered. We strongly encourage all our clients to show respect to the Tiger by not staying too long and not encouraging the Mahout to get too close. We also recommend reporting any Mahouts who use excessive force to both the park authorities and your lodge manager.

Bandhavgarh has a relatively remote location and is best reached by overnight train to Umaria or Katni. It is possible to fly from Delhi or Agra to Khajuraho, where the numerous thousand year old temples with their erotic carvings, along with nearby Panna, are a unique destination to consider. The road from Khajuraho is in a particularly poor state of repair (getting better!) and the uncomfortable journey can take up to seven hours. Kanha is a half days drive away from Bandhavgarh. The park opens sometime between October 1st and November 1st depending on the amount of rainfall received and closes at the end of June.