Bandhavgarh National Park–Madhya Pradesh

One of the famous National Parks in India, the Bandhavgarh Park is located in the district of Umaira in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is spread over an area of 105 sq km and was declared as a National Park in the year 1968. The buffer area of the park is spread over the Umaira and Katni regions. The word Bandhavgarh means Brother’s Fort in Sanskrit. The park has a large biodiversity and is home to one of the highest tiger population in India.

The Bandhavgarh National Park consists of around 37 species of mammals including significant tiger population. It is believed that more than 250 species of birds, 80 species of butterflies and a large number of reptiles are present here. Indian Wolf, Sambar, Nilgai, Cheetal, Vultures and Caracal are also found here in large numbers. There is also a huge population of Leopards in the Park.

There is a large number of woody climbers like Bahunia Wahlii and Butea Superba present here. Bandhavgarh National Park also houses gigantic Sal trees and many other verities of tress, which add wonders to the Park’s flora.

The Bandhavgarh National Park experiences three seasons – pretty cold winters, burning summers and monsoons. The best time to visit the park is in the period of November to June. However, the monsoon season is good for sight-seeing and catching a glimpse of the tigers and other wild animals and birds.

There is no major lodging facility within the park area except the nature camp for the trekkers. However, people can avail accommodation facilities around the park in Umaria. There are many luxury resorts and guest houses of state tourism department in Umaria. Tiger Trail and Tiger Den are some of the famous resorts.

The nearest airport to the Bandhavgarh National Park is at Khajuraho. The closest railway station is at Umaria, and is at a distance of 40 minutes from the park. Tourists can also avail facility of the jeeps for transportation.