Bandhavgarh and Kanha Tiger Safari: Your Guide to an Amazing Wildlife Adventure

India’s Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks are two of the best places to see tigers and other wildlife. Located in Madhya Pradesh, these parks are famous for their lush forests, diverse animals, and exciting safaris. This article will guide you on how to reach Bandhavgarh, what makes Bandhavgarh and Kanha special, details of a combined tour package starting with Bandhavgarh and then Kanha, and what you can do on a safari in India. It’s written in simple words so everyone can understand and plan their trip easily.

Why Visit Bandhavgarh and Kanha?

Bandhavgarh and Kanha are like stepping into the world of The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. These parks are home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, along with other animals like leopards, sloth bears, deer, and many colorful birds. Both parks are part of India’s Project Tiger, a program to protect tigers, making them some of the best places to spot these big cats in the wild.

What’s Special About Bandhavgarh National Park?

• High Tiger Density: Bandhavgarh is famous for having one of the highest tiger populations in India, so your chances of seeing a tiger are very good.
• Unique Landscape: The park has hills, cliffs, and grasslands, with ancient caves and a fort that add a historical touch to your visit. Some caves have writings from the 1st century BC!
• Diverse Wildlife: Besides tigers, you can spot leopards, white tigers (historically found here), deer, wild boars, and over 250 bird species. The park is also home to animals like the four-horned antelope and hyenas.

What’s Special About Kanha National Park?

• Lush Forests and Wildlife: Kanha is known for its beautiful sal and bamboo forests, grasslands, and streams. It covers 940 square kilometers and is home to the rare hardground Barasingha (swamp deer), which was saved from extinction here. You can also see tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and Indian gaur (bison).
• Conservation Success: Kanha has an amazing story of saving the Barasingha, growing their numbers from just 55 in 1965 to over 800 today. It also helped bring back the gaur population in Bandhavgarh by donating about 50 gaurs.
• Jungle Book Connection: Kanha inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. You’ll feel like you’re in Mowgli’s world as you explore its forests.

How to Reach Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is in Madhya Pradesh, and there are several ways to get there:

1. By Air:
• The closest airport is Jabalpur (200 km, about 4 hours by road).
• From New Delhi, you can take a flight to Jabalpur, which takes about 1.5–2 hours. From the airport, hire a taxi or use a tour operator’s vehicle to reach Bandhavgarh.
• Example: Fly from New Delhi to Jabalpur, then drive to Bandhavgarh through scenic routes.
2. By Train:
• The nearest railway station is Umaria (35 km, about 45 minutes by road) or Katni (100 km, about 2 hours).
• Trains from New Delhi, Mumbai, or other major cities connect to these stations. From there, take a taxi or bus to Bandhavgarh.
• Example: Take an overnight train from New Delhi to Umaria, then drive to Bandhavgarh.
3. By Road:
• Bandhavgarh is well-connected by road. You can hire a taxi or drive from nearby cities like Jabalpur (200 km, 4 hours) or Katni (100 km, 2 hours).
• The roads are good, and the drive offers views of forests and villages.

Bandhavgarh and Kanha Tour Package

A combined Bandhavgarh and Kanha tour is a great way to explore both parks. Here’s an example of a Bandhavgarh Kanha Tour Package, starting with Bandhavgarh:

Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Arrive in Jabalpur and drive to Bandhavgarh (200 km, 4 hours)
• Arrive at Jabalpur airport or railway station. A tour representative will pick you up and drive you to Bandhavgarh. Check into a jungle resort and relax.
• Day 2: Bandhavgarh National Park Safaris
• Morning and evening jeep safaris in Bandhavgarh with a naturalist guide. Look for tigers, leopards, and explore historical sites like ancient caves or the fort. Enjoy meals at the resort.
• Day 3: Bandhavgarh National Park Safaris
• Another day of morning and evening safaris to maximize tiger sightings. Enjoy cultural programs or relax at the resort in the evening.
• Day 4: Bandhavgarh to Kanha (230 km, 5 hours)
• After a morning safari in Bandhavgarh, drive to Kanha. Check into a resort and spend the evening relaxing or exploring nearby nature trails.
• Day 5: Kanha National Park Safaris
• Morning and evening jeep safaris in Kanha. Spot tigers, Barasingha, and other wildlife. Enjoy meals and cultural programs at the resort.
• Day 6: Kanha to Jabalpur and Depart (170 km, 3 hours)
• After a morning safari in Kanha, drive back to Jabalpur for your flight or train to New Delhi or another destination.

What’s Included in the Package

• Accommodation: Stay in comfortable jungle resorts or lodges in Bandhavgarh and Kanha, with all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
• Safaris: 4–6 exclusive jeep safaris (2–3 in Bandhavgarh, 2–3 in Kanha) with experienced guides and naturalists.
• Transfers: Air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers (e.g., Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh, Bandhavgarh to Kanha, Kanha to Jabalpur).
• Entrance Fees: Park entry fees and guide charges for safaris.
• Extras: Some packages include village visits, cultural programs (like Gond and Baiga tribal dances), or bird-watching tours.

What’s Not Included

• Airfare or train tickets to/from Jabalpur.
• Personal expenses like tips, drinks, or laundry.
• Camera fees for photography in the parks.
• Travel insurance.

Cost

The price varies based on the type of accommodation (budget, high-end, or luxury) and the tour operator. For exact pricing, check with operators like Tiger Safari Bandhavgarh.

What to Do on a Safari in India

A tiger safari in Bandhavgarh and Kanha is full of exciting activities. Here’s what you can do:

1. Jeep Safaris:
• The main activity is a jeep safari, where you ride in an open vehicle with a guide and naturalist. Morning safaris (starting around 5–6 AM) are best for spotting tigers, as they’re active early in the day. Evening safaris (around 3–6 PM) offer beautiful sunsets and chances to see nocturnal animals.
• Look for tigers, leopards, deer, and birds. Guides track animals using paw marks or alarm calls from other animals.
2. Elephant Safaris (Bandhavgarh):
• In Bandhavgarh, you may have the option for an elephant safari. Riding an elephant lets you get closer to wildlife in a unique way.
3. Bird Watching:
• Both parks have over 250 bird species, including hornbills, owls, and raptors. Bring binoculars and ask your guide to point out rare birds like the Indian Pitta or Malabar Pied Hornbill.
4. Village Visits:
• Visit local Gond and Baiga tribal villages to learn about their culture, music, and traditions. These visits offer a glimpse into the lives of people living near the parks.
5. Cultural Programs:
• Some resorts organize tribal dance or music performances in the evening, giving you a taste of Madhya Pradesh’s rich culture.
6. Nature Walks:
• Guided nature trails let you explore the park’s edges on foot. You’ll see smaller animals, plants, and butterflies while learning about the ecosystem.
7. Photography:
• Both parks are great for wildlife photography. Bring a good camera with a zoom lens to capture tigers, landscapes, and birds. Note that some parks charge extra for professional camera equipment.
8. Learn from Naturalists:
• Your safari guide and naturalist will share stories about the jungle, tiger behavior, and conservation efforts. Ask questions to learn more about the parks’ history and wildlife.

Tips for a Great Safari Experience

• Best Time to Visit: October to April is the best time, as the weather is cool and animals are easier to spot. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) when parks are closed.
• What to Bring: Pack light clothes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera. Wear neutral colors (like green or brown) to blend into the jungle.
• Stay Safe: Follow your guide’s instructions during safaris. Stay quiet and avoid sudden movements to not scare animals.
• Book Early: Safari permits are limited, so book your tour and safaris at least 2–3 months in advance.
• Respect Nature: Don’t litter or disturb the wildlife. Keep the jungle clean and follow park rules.

Why This Tour is Special

The Tiger Safari in India is a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and culture. Starting with Bandhavgarh’s tiger-rich hills and historical sites, followed by Kanha’s lush forests and Jungle Book charm, this trip offers a complete wildlife experience. You’ll see tigers, explore diverse landscapes, and learn about India’s conservation efforts. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a photographer, or just want a unique adventure, this tour has something for everyone.

For more details or to book a tour, visit websites like https://www.tigersafaribandhavgarh.com/. Get ready for an unforgettable journey into India’s wild heart!