A national park is used to conserve the vast flora and fauna of a country. It can be natural, semi -natural or even man-made. A national park is also regarded as national pride. India is home for a wide variety of flora and the animals located amidst it. There are many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that cater to the needs of many endangered animals and other species. There are over 103 national parks in India. India enacted the Wildlife Protection Act and Project Tiger in 1972 to protect the habitats of conservation dependent species.
One such well known area is the Bandhavgarh National Park in central India. It is known for its conservation efforts in saving tigers and other animals and allows them to grow and nourish in their natural habitat. It is a reserve under project tiger as well. It has a rich history. It is a widespread landscape that offers a very unique experience.
About Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh national Park is situated in Umaira district, Madhya Pradesh. Bandhavgarh National Park belongs to the Vindhya mountain ranges of central India and itstretches over a distance of about 452 square kilometers including the buffer zone.It was once the private gaming reserve of royalty among the Baghela community from Rewa district in Madhya Pradesh. It was established as a national park in the year 1968. The park is rich in its biodiversity and abundant wildlife. It was included in Project tiger in the year 1993. It is situated at a very historical place. The national park receives its name from a well-known hillock in the area. The name translates to brother’s fort and traces its origin back to Ramayana. It is said that Lord Rama gifted the fort to his brother Laxmana after he came back from Lanka, victorious. The park also consist of historical monuments, natural waterholes ancient caves remnants that show signs a historical past going up to 2000 years.
What is the main feature of Bandhavgarh National Park?
Bandhavgarh National Park is home for majestic beasts, the Bengal tigers. It has a very high density among other national parks that protect tigers. It is known for many large sized famous tigers including Charger and Sita, whose stories are narrated among many tourists. Charger and Sita both died due to various incidents. It is a very popular spot for sighting tigers and many people book Bandhavgarh national park tour package for that very reason. It is also said to have nurtured white tigers although there has been none spotted in the past 50 years. It is believed that India’s first white tiger was found in the jungles of Bandhavgarh many years ago, and that’s why it is also called as the white tiger country. With approximately sheltering 55 tigers, this park is known for having a very high density of Bengal tigers.
Other Animals and Birds that you can spot in the park
Not only does one get to spot a tiger amidst the forests, but Bandhavgarh national park is home for many other exotic animals as well. It is said to consist of around 22 other mammals and more than 200 species of birds. Common Langurs, Asiatic Jackal, Striped Hyena, Rhesus Macaque, Bengal Fox, Gray Mongoose, Leopards, Sloth Bear, and Jungle Cats, and are some of the other animals present in the park other than the Bengal Tigers. Other animals which can be spotted are Pigs, Nilgai, Sambar, Spotted Deer,Chausingha, etc. among many others. Mammals such as the small Indian Civet, Lesser Bandicoot Rat, Palm Squirrel, andDhole are also spotted rarely.More than 200 bird species are found in Bandhavgarh national park. Some of the birds that can be spotted areDucks, Heron, Storks, Cormorants, Hawks, Grebes, Ibises, Vultures, Eagles, etc.
Tourist attraction
Jungle safaris are the main tourist attractions in this park. Many spots can be visited through the safari and one can also spot tigers and their movements. It is open throughout the year and is a splendid sight for wildlife photographers. One can capture the movements of Tigers and other animals, the rich greenery the park offers along with the scenic beauty. There are resorts available in the park and around it to ensure a comfortable stay according to budget and requirement. Tourists are exposed to all categories of resorts and safari lodges.
The safaris are very popular and allow the tourists to experience upfront what the park has to offer. The park is open from October to June and it is closed for monsoon. The best time to visit would be summer season where tiger spotting is done easily as they venture out of their shelter in such of food and water more often. The place has a moderate climate. Tourists can also sight see the park on elephant backs. Elephant rides are offered in certain areas of the park. The safari is closed for the evening when the tourists can walk around different areas surrounding the national park and learn a bit more about the culture and tradition followed.
Places to see around Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh national park is surrounded by other well-known places that catch the attractive eye of the tourists. One can visit places such as Amarkantak, Khajuraho, Jabalpur, Varanasi, Panna National park, etc. All these places offer packages which have safaris, hotel booking and itinerary details that include sightseeing and other services.
How to reach to the park?
One can arrive at Bandhavgarh National Park through Katni railway station,UmariaRailway station, and Jabalpur railway station if you want to travel by train. One can also reach the park by commuting in bus or any other private vehicle. There are frequent buses availablefromUmariato reach Bandhavgarh National Park.
The park is very good option to travel and explore the wild and connect with nature. The awestruck moments are many that can be experienced while spotting a tiger, looking around at the rich biodiversity the place has to offer, learning about the history, and culture, etc. It is an opportunity that should not be missed and is perfect choice for a family holiday.
