India
has been a destination with myriad opportunities for travellers and
tourists. Among the country's various aspects, wildlife is one that one can
never escape. Wildlife fanciers arrive here from far and wide to spot the
pristine flora and the exotic fauna of India. Animal species like the Royal
Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Snow Leopard, Nilgiri Tahr, Black Buck and
Sambar prove to be a big draw for tourists.
The Bandhavgarh National Pak is one of the most exotic wildlife refuges of
the country. The national park is nestled in the Vindhya ranges. The park
covers an area of 437 sq km. The erstwhile hunting preserve of the Maharaja
of Rewa, the wildlife sanctuary was declared a national park in the year
1968. Later in 1993, it went to become an important Tiger Reserve of India.
The lower region of the park is dominated by Sal forests. While the
high-altitude region is covered with mixed forests. The terrain comprises of
rocky hill ranges, swamps and forested valleys.
Go There For
The Bandhavgarh National Park has been harbouring a number of species
including mammals, birds and reptiles. White tigers are a major attraction
for tourists here. The forests are not very thick and dense making animal
viewing a not-so-difficult affair. The tiger count of the park is estimated
to be over 40. Other animal inmates of the park include Jungle cat, hyena,
ratel, Rhesus macaque, muntajac, porcupine etc. One can also spot animals
like chausingha, chital, chinkara, wild boar, jackal, fox etc. The density
of tigers and leopards in the jungles of Bandhavgarh is truly noteworthy.
A good number of avian species also found home in the forests of the
Bandhavgarh National Park. Commonly sighted bird species include Brown Fish
owl, grey-headed fishing eagle, Malabar pied hornbill, Shahin falcon etc.
Safaris
& Other Attractions
At Bandhavgarh, you have both the options of safari - Jeep and elephant.
Whichever option you choose, a forest guide always accompanies you to
acquaint you of the flora and fauna of the park. You can best explore the
park terrain in the early morning and after 4 pm in the evening. Animal
species are very active during these hours and thus sightings can be easy.
Besides being witness to the pristine flora and fauna, you can also pay a
visit to the Bandhavgarh Fort erected during the 14th century. Though in a
state of dilapidation, the fort makes a sight to behold. And at the same
time you can also spot black bucks around the ruins of the fort. The
surrounding hills have a number of ancient caves which too are a worthy
visit. Which is more, you can also observe the architectural remains
belonging to the Kalchuri Period.
Reaching The Park
Khajuraho, which lies at a distance of 230 km from Bandhavgarh, is the
closest airport. The airport has regular domestic flights connecting to
places like Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. Umaria (30 km) is the nearest rail
connection. It lies on the Katni-Bilaspur section of the South Eastern
Railway. At a distance of 117 km, Satna is another convenient railhead. The
road-route too is well established and is linked with places like Kahjuraho,
Varanasi, Katni, Rewa, Umaria, Kanha. The Madhya Pradesh State Transport
Corporation runs regular buses from Katni, Rewa, Satna and Umaria.
