Location
Khajuraho (230 kms), Varanasi (340 kms)

Known For
Tigers 

Climate 
Quick variations could be seen in the climatic conditions of Bandhavgarh National Park. In the winter months, temperature ranges from 0- 20 degrees centigrade. In summers, temperature rises to an extremely high 46 degrees Celsius. Rainfall mainly occurs between the months of June and October. The average annual rainfall is recorded as 1200mm. The national park remains open from November to June.

The Park
Madhya Pradesh holds the Bandhavgarh National Park in its Umaria district. Known for its disparity in topography, Bandhavgarh National Park is surrounded by cliffs and wooded Vindhyan mountains. The topography together with the thick forest cover makes Bandhavgarh an ideal path for wildlife habitation. In fact, it is said that the Bandhavgarh jungles provides its own atmosphere, climate, water and nutrition to its wildlife through its recycling method. Bandhavgarh, mutually with the Kanha National Park, has received Madhya Pradesh another name- The Tiger state of India.

Attractions in the Park

Flora : Bandhavgarh has a thick and diverse forest area. Though the vegetation mainly covers the mixed deciduous forests, most of the area is covered by Sal trees. The higher you go, the more variety of plants and trees you see, such as Saj, Sali, Dhobin and Saja. The northern part of the Bandhavgarh Park is full of grasslands and bamboo.

Fauna : With a substantial population of Tigers the park enjoys a laudable position among the others due to its tiger preservation efforts. Furthermore, in this sanctuary, Tigers are spotted very easily. Many species of animals inhabiting in the park (apart from tigers) are Wild Boars, Leopards, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Nilgais, Dholes, Chinkaras, Rhesus Macaques, Sloth Bears, Jungle Cats, Langurs, Hyenas, Jackals, Porcupines, Wild Dogs, Foxes and Chausinghas.

Avifauna : Apart from the tigers and other such animals, the Bandhavgarh National Park is also known for its bird species. Beyond doubts, Bandhavgarh is a paradise for bird watchers. At the park, one can spot both migratory and local birds. The commonly spotted birds are Steppe Eagles, Brown Fantails, Grey Malabar Hornbills, Green Pigeons, Parakeets, Drongoes, Bee eaters, Owls, Jerdon and Wood shrikes. During winters, migration of the birds create some frolic and the view is utmost delight.

Other Places to Visit

Bandhavgarh Fort : The magnificent Bandhavgarh Fort is situated within the park area. It is a giant structure dating back to the 14th century and looks striking from a distance. There are numerous caves belonging to the pre-historic era in the fort and the adjoining hills.

Kalchuri Archeological Remains : The ruins of the Kalchuri period is an addition to the already striking attractiveness of the place. Although the relics are almost in ruins now, their charm has not diminished.

How To Reach

By Air : The nearest airport is Khajuraho which is situated at a distance of 230 kilometers from the national park.

By Rail : The nearest railway station is the Umaria station at a distance of 32 kilometers. However, it is a small station mainly linked by local trains. The more suitable railway station would be Katni, which is connected to the rest of the country in a better way.

By Road : The national park is accessible from the National Highway - 78 that runs between Katni and Umaria. The road leading to the main entrance of the national park is in bad condition and it is not very busy.