The Land of the Royal Bengal Tiger

About Bandhavgarh National Park

A legendary tiger reserve in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, famed for having the highest density of tigers in India.

Bandhavgarh National Park is steeped in history and mythology. The name is derived from the ancient hillock, which is said to have been given by Lord Rama to his brother Lakshmana to keep a watch on Lanka (Bandhav = Brother, Garh = Fort). At the center of the park stands the 2,000-year-old Bandhavgarh Fort, adding a mystical aura to the wilderness.

The park spans approximately 1,536 sq km and is renowned worldwide for its high population of Royal Bengal Tigers. Legendary tigers like Charger and Sita roamed these forests, putting Bandhavgarh on the global wildlife map. The terrain consists of steep ridges, undulating forest, and open meadows (grassy swamps), which provide perfect visibility for game viewing.

The core area is divided into three major safari zones: Tala (the most premium and scenic), Magadhi (known for frequent sightings), and Khitauli (known for birding and leopard sightings). Apart from tigers, the park supports a healthy population of leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and the Indian bison (Gaur), which were successfully reintroduced here.

Birdlife is equally spectacular with over 250 species, including the Malabar Pied Hornbill, various eagles, and vultures nesting in the cliffs of the fort.

A safari in Bandhavgarh is not just about wildlife; it is a journey through time, where ancient ruins and statues of Lord Vishnu (Shesh Shaiya) lie hidden amidst the bamboo and sal forests, guarded by the stripes of the jungle.