10 Reasons to plan your safari during rainy season in Bandhavgarh

 The fact that all hotels and resorts are operational in Bandhavgarh during the rainy season is a significant advantage for planning your safari. It ensures that you have a wide range of options when it comes to accommodations, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences and budget.

The availability of excursions in buffer zones such as Dhamokhar, Panpedi, and Manpur throughout the year, including the monsoon season, provides even more opportunities for safari experiences. These buffer zones often have their own unique attractions and wildlife sightings, offering a diverse range of experiences for nature enthusiasts.

Having access to these buffer zones during the rainy season allows you to explore the wilderness and witness the natural beauty of Bandhavgarh in its various forms. Whether it's spotting wildlife, enjoying scenic landscapes, or engaging in bird watching, the open buffer zones provide ample opportunities for unforgettable safari adventures.

With hotels and resorts operational and buffer zones accessible, you can confidently plan your safari during the rainy season in Bandhavgarh, knowing that you will have a comfortable stay and ample opportunities to explore the wildlife-rich areas surrounding the park.

Better prices - Take advantage of off-season prices for accommodation and stay longer! During the rainy season, safari lodges and hotels in Bandhavgarh offer discounted rates, allowing you to save money on your safari experience. With the cost savings, you can extend your stay and explore the wildlife at a leisurely pace.

Special offers - We offer special all-inclusive packages for long stays and workstations. Some safari lodges provide exclusive deals and packages during the rainy season, including extended stays and additional amenities. You can take advantage of these special offers to make your safari experience even more enjoyable and affordable.

 Away from the crowds - An obvious plus at this time of year is that there are fewer crowds. Unlike the peak tourist season, the rainy season in Bandhavgarh attracts fewer visitors. This means you can enjoy a more peaceful and intimate safari experience without the crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the wilderness.

 Leave the exhaustion of summer behind - After the rains, the air is wonderfully clear and fresh in the wild, making the stunning landscapes of Bandhavgarh look their absolute best. The monsoon season washes away the dust and rejuvenates the surroundings, offering you pristine views of the lush greenery, waterfalls, and vibrant flora.

 Green and lush - Rain-soaked lushness awaits you with wildflowers blooming across the landscape. The monsoon transforms the dry terrain of Bandhavgarh into a green paradise. The vegetation flourishes, creating a picturesque landscape filled with vibrant colors and a variety of plant species. This lush environment provides a unique and enchanting backdrop for your safari adventures.

Excellent birding opportunity - The monsoon provides an excellent opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts. Local migratory birds flock to Bandhavgarh during this time, as they rely on the rainy season to build their nests and raise their young. You can witness a plethora of bird species in their natural habitats, adding an exciting element to your safari experience.

 Temperature - The rains bring much-needed relief to the sun-scorched landscapes. During the rainy season, temperatures in Bandhavgarh drop, offering a pleasant and cooler climate. The evenings and early mornings are particularly refreshing, allowing you to enjoy your safari activities comfortably without the scorching heat of summer.

Offering flexibility - By considering a safari during the rainy season, you can take advantage of the lodges' flexible terms and conditions. With fewer visitors, the lodges are often more accommodating and can provide flexible booking options, allowing you to plan your safari according to your preferences and schedule.

Easily getting safari tickets - With fewer tourists visiting Bandhavgarh during the rainy season, you have a higher chance of easily securing safari tickets. You won't have to compete with large crowds for limited slots, increasing your chances of experiencing a safari at your preferred time and date.

Village visit with green paddy fields - The rainy season brings life to the surrounding villages, with lush green paddy fields spreading across the landscape. This presents an excellent opportunity to explore the local communities and experience their way of life amidst the serene beauty of nature. You can engage with the locals, witness their farming practices, and learn about their culture, providing a well-rounded experience during your safari.

 It is really rewarding to tour Bandhavgarh in the rainy season as the post suggests. There are many seasonal benefits that come your way during the monsoon. You will experience amazing greenery, cool weather and enchanting landscape like never before. 

Tiger Tourism and Bandhavgarh National Park in Central India

Bandhavgarh National Park in Central India is a conservation unit chiefly focused on saving the critically endangered Bengal tiger. At Bandhavgarh tiger, tourism plays a major role in revenue generation. NTCA a government body sets guidelines for recreation in the park. The safaris are regulated and subject to terms and conditions shaped by several rules. The park is also a tiger reserve, and the conservation initiative is set by the forest department.

The regulations are under the advice of the Supreme Court of India and are subject to be implemented for tiger safaris. NTCA or National Tiger Conservation Authority is the guardian of the Project Tiger Program initiated by the Government of India.

The park is divided into the core or critical tiger habitat which is inviolate and no human settlement or any activities are allowed and the outer ring or buffer comprises villages, forests, and farmlands. Twenty percent of the core is subjected to tourism as demarcated by the local forest department. This area is subdivided into three zones and to visit each zone a safari permit issued by MP State Government is required. The permit is issued by the State Government of Madhya Pradesh. The open jeep safaris seat six people with a guide on a ride inside the core. Two game rides are conducted daily, one in the morning and the other in the evening.

How to Book Bandhavgarh Safari Permit?

The permits can be secured from the MPOnline website of the  State Government.  You have to decide which zone to visit in the morning or evening safari rides.  Do this much in advance, if you cannot decide then take advice from the hotel naturalist you are going to stay at in Bandhavgarh or seek advice from the manager of your tour operator in India.

To book a safari go online at the MPOnline website, here you need to fill out the form which requires you to submit personal details including those accompanying you on the jeep safari. A photo ID could be a passport or a driving license. You can choose the date, time, and zone and then make the payment if the slot is available. Make a payment online using a credit/debit card or Internet Banking. After the reservation has been completed take a printout of the permit. If you don't wish to take the trouble of online reservations then get your permits through the agent.

During the game rides, you have to carry a copy of the permit and your original passport or photo ID. All co-passengers will need to do the same. On the ride, you are allowed to carry a camera or a Handycam/binoculars but no guns or inflammable articles.

When on the safari the jeep keeps to the selected zone and cannot crossover into another zone. The canteen with toilet facilities is in a designated area meant for freshening up and brunch during the morning ride.

Remember, always reserve safari permits in advance as entry into the tourism zone is limited.  At Bandhavgarh National Park the maximum number of jeeps allowed in one zone is twenty-five as the park is smaller compared with many other National parks in Central India. 

For Hotel Accommodation in Bandhavgarh National Park A Choice Awaits

 Accommodations in Bandhavgarh 

Being one of the most popular tiger reserves in India, Bandhavgarh excels in wildlife tourism infrastructure. As a National Park and reserve, the focus is on tiger conservation, and the consequent efforts have led to an amazing comeback made by the critically endangered big cat species.

I remember, in the seventies, on my first visit there were no private accommodations, and the only proper place to stay was the Forest Rest House at Tala Village. Tigers though scarce were visible after much tracking. Tourism was focused on Tala Range comprising dense forests, mountain River Charanga, marshy grasslands, and plenty of prey for the big cats. Another unique aspect of the Tala Range was ancient remains dating 2000 years back. On your first safari, you will not fail to notice the crumbling ramparts of an ancient fort at the great heights of Bandhavgarh Fort. A portion of the wall is intact but access to the fort is not possible anymore as it is out of the tourism zone. 

Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh is an esoteric paradise that epitomizes ancient mystical India. Well protected from the Mughal marauders, the park is home to many manmade caves, stables, courts, idols of Lord Vishnu in zoomorphic forms, and pools.  Now covered in moss, lichens, and fungi, the structures nevertheless, strike awe and hold you transfixed in a perpetual state of trance. I remember, Shesh Shaiyya still comes in my dreams, the Lord lying peacefully near a fairy pool. The place is open for tourism in Tala Zone and is a must-visit. 

Bandhavgarh

Tigers of Bandhavgarh

"BADDY OR DADDY" if my memory serves well was already popular with a few tourists who entered the park on old rickety diesel jeeps in the seventies.  He found a mention in a popular Indian newspaper and sired many cubs. Most of the tigers we encountered during that period had no names but were as charismatic as they appeared with names later on. 

From being an unknown entity the park was slowly emerging from being totally inconspicuous on the tourism map, it was slated to be the most visited in Central India. As the population increased, tigers began rolling in, and the legendary tigress SITA was the result of the conservation initiative. As far as I remember Badka, Charger, Bamera, B1, B2, Mahaman tigress, Blueeyed, and many others highlighted tourism in the park.

Tiger's Den Resort

We often visited the park as tourism was cheap, and the forest resthouse was readily available. But things were changing as resorts began to pop up in the nineties. Tiger tourism was coming of age in India! Unfortunately, tourism took its toll and the sentinels and mahouts who sat around us to cheer up the fireplace in the evenings began to evade us as the tips came rolling in. Overseas visitors began to arrive in hordes, and the mahouts and the guides were amply rewarded.  

Hotels in Bandhavgarh 

From a single public accommodation, the place was expected to grow as tiger sightings increased. In the tiger reserves, tourism is always interdependent upon the possibility of sightings of the big cat, and to some extent connectivity by air, road, and rail. The destination was difficult to approach from Jabalpur and elsewhere because of bad road conditions, and the 200 km drive from Jabalpur Airport was a pain in the bums. 

 The roads are in excellent shape now and a large number of hotels have profligated the buffer zone of the park. Bandhavgarh provides ample opportunities to stay as per the budget. From single-room house accommodations to guest houses, and homestays you can choose sophisticated high-end resorts during the safari holidays. 

With the tourist boom, the number of hotels has boomeranged as well and new ones keep coming. You have a choice if you wish to spend money to stay in high-end star-category accommodations. These are expensive but deliver or you can choose semi-luxury resorts that charge around 100 USD per night stay.   

There are many fancy accommodations that specialize in hosting overseas visitors and the quality of services is good. These properties are experienced in hosting overseas visitors and are preferred by inbound tour operators.   Luxury hosts what to expect:

• Excellent Food
• Fine Dining 
• Spacious Rooms or Cottages 
• Native Architecture
• Cozy Ambience
• Serenity & Peace
• Green Environment 
• Pool 
• Parking 
• Naturalist Service 
• Jungle Safari Trips 
• Safari Booking 
• Bar (Few)
• Sauna (Few) 
• Barbecue (Few)
• Bush Dinners
• Bird Watching 
• Village Visits 
• Continental Food 
• Wait Service, & Host Interaction 

Every luxury property has a unique way of dealing with its hosts. There is one Tal Property at Bandhavgarh called Mahua Kothi which is a five-star getaway, and available for a high-end budget.  But generally, those preferred by the tour operators tend to come up to the expectations. There is a lot of information on the hotel websites of Bandhavgarh. You can authenticate by contacting the resort manager or a local tour operator or rely on referrals if you have any. A better option is to seek reviews on Tripadvisor. Many mid-range resorts are on the verge of closure or barely surviving post-covid-19 hence be careful. 

Some of the Good properties in Bandhavgarh as per TripAdvisor are: 

• Tiger Den Resorts
• MPTDC White Tiger Lodge
• Nature Heritage Resort
• Lemon Tree Resort
• Samode Safari Lodge
• Tree House Hideaway 
• Bundela Tiger Resorts 
• Infinity Resort

My stay at Tiger Den Resort has been most rewarding. It is a mid-price resort at Tala and takes good care of overseas guests and the domestic crowd. But you can choose from the list of luxury hotels in Bandhavgarh National Park. Make a wise decision, and your wild safari holiday would be a memorable experience. Most of the accommodations are situated around the Tala Village which is the main artery that connects the park with Jabalpur Airport. But the properties are spread out at a distance, especially the high-end ones. Take your time choosing the right property and settle for the best price. Avoid the festival rush and weekends.    

Remember to book safari permits in advance, before the limited entry is full. For online booking use MPOnline Portal. You can also request the hotel manager where you plan to stay to book safari permits for you.

Bandhavgarh Untamed & Wild

Can the beauty last forever! This is what I think of the forests of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. The large contiguous patch of forests spread over the last leg of Vindhyan Hills as far as Sehora near Jabalpur. The forests in a state of denudation and plunder, still contain habitable patches of forests that sustain impressive wilderness including the tigers.   

Bandhavgarh

Tiger conservation albeit an impressive program can be myopic in execution if attention is paid only to the core or critical to tiger habitats. In order to give adequate space to tigers such that they multiply and survive in good numbers, all the forests an around have to be kept in a perfect state of preservation. Hence those patches of forests with lesser status need to be looked after very well. 

Bandhavgarh Grasslands 

To an average visitor, it is very difficult to understand the nature of big cats, especially their home range. The tigers do not understand management concepts and practices. For then any and every undisturbed forest is home. Hence under the Project Tiger Program, a large extent of forests is provided cover and benefits that accrue. Diverse wildlife and bird life find shelter under this program. The myriads of life forms flora and fauna constitute a wonderful ecosystem that unfailingly nurtures humanity.  

Male Tiger

Likewise, tigers survive in forests much beyond the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve Core. They live in the buffer zone spanning a great distance. Some of the areas are in a perfect state of preservation while some are being denuded and plundered by loggers and poachers. Thankfully the latter is mitigated by constant patrolling but incidences do occur. 

Sloth Bear 

Charismatic & Picturesque is what these pristine forests are described as. They retain these characteristic attributes at many places. Even historical evidence found in the Tala Range can be found elsewhere scattered and forlorn. This also informs us of the extant Tribal Gond rule in the region.           

Tigers inhabit the most beautiful region in Central India. Beautiful rivers, tabletop mountains, marshy grasslands, enchanting glens, and pristine forests. These are the wonderlands of the wild World. 

Destinations like Bandhavgarh have to be preserved not only for the tigers but for humanity as a whole. These precious gems are in trouble thanks to unchecked development and mining, denudation, and advancing urbanity. Let's hope the weight age accorded to the tiger will indirectly help preserve the whole ecosystem/      

Tiger Safari: Rates Kanha & Bandhavgarh

From the coming season, the new vehicle entry rates will apply. The parks will open on 16th October as usual.

Kanha and Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve tourism zones have been changed and upgraded.

At Kanha, the Kanha Zone is notified as premium and its charges are:

Rs.1500 for Indians and Rs.3000 for foreigners. Besides this guide fees filming fee, etc will also apply.

Other zones are Mukki & Sarhi Gates.

At Bandhavgarh, the vehicle entry fee is Rs.2000 for Indians and Rs. 4000 for foreigners. This is for Tala Zone which is premium.  

Other Zones are Panpatha, Khitauli, and Magadhi Zones.

Jeep hire is extra for that contact manager of your accommodation in the tiger reserve.  

Access to zones may be from outside so leave in advance and be prepared to pay more for an extra ride to reach the gates.  

Each Wednesday evening safaris are closed, so schedule village/school tours for this day evening. 

In the notification by the forest department, no tariff is given for nonpremium zones. Visit MP Online  for more information. There is vehicle restriction inside the park hence book your gate entry in advance. This can be done at MP Online. 

Bandhavgarh Then & Now

I saw my first male tiger in Bandhavgarh National Park in the seventies. The place was called Kill Khunta, since bait was usually tied there to attract tigers. The baiting practice was thankfully stopped but the tigers do not go hungry at all. In that dusky twilight, I could see one of nature's marvelous creations. The awe and admiration have never ceased since.

Back from the brink of disaster, the little paradise was not throbbing with tigers as conservation practice had just been put in place. The aftermath of reckless hunting had come to a stop and recovery was on the way. Though isolated and fragmented, the reserve retained its glorious ancient past and amazing Sal forests.

There were few visitors, and the accommodation was limited to the Maharani's Kothi for the privileged and the Forest/PWD R.H - rest house.

Eventually, MPTDC stepped in and established the White Tiger Lodge. Then more tourists started to arrive with propaganda so created. The tourism infrastructure had been put in place with a number of elephants for rides. The jungle roads were being maintained. This was the hunting reserve of the erstwhile Maharajas of Rewa. It was the largest Kingdom in India during the post-independence period.

The discovery of white tigers in the adjacent forests had already opened the floodgates of popularity. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is situated in the Central Indian State of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the finest places to see the tiger in the wild. The preserve is one of the most picturesque destinations - a little tiger haven tucked away in the deep recess of India's wild heartland. Under the project tiger, the area covered is about 1100 sq. km including the neighboring Pan Patha Wildlife Sanctuary. The core now constitutes 600 plus sq. km as against 145 or so earlier.

On our earlier visits, we could count around 60 plus heads of gaur or Indian Bison. Gradually we saw the numbers dwindle till the end came somewhere in the nineties. This was a major blow to the habitat, the loss of a coarse grazer was irreparable. Rinderpest & FPL was the scourge carried by maddening numbers of livestock in the periphery. Though some gaur has been relocated from Kanha recently, we have to wait for success.

It was obvious from the sightings that the prey base was increasing. The sightings also confirmed that big cats in the park were on the increase. In a few years, the reserve was a conservation success - it still is.

Another noticeable fact was the increasing number of tourists as well as the hotel resorts. The park became the number one tourist draw thanks to a high density of tigers. The core area of the park is the finest habitat for cats. Due to the slush and grass in swampy marshy areas hunting was easy.

The village relocation had taken place from within the core and some were due which eventually did not happen - Kalwa & Magdi. The edaphic grasslands left by the tribal communities inside were overtaken by the prey base. This was like bounty from heaven since the grass was much-wanted fodder for the deer and the bison.

Ruins

The remains of ancient civilizations added luster to the splendorous jungle resort. The ancient man-made caves still exist with petroglyphs and Brahmi script on the walls. The forests experienced many warring civilizations throughout, as history unfolded. The dynasties left their marks on the ruins which are now ruled thankfully by the big cats. The place since evolution belonged to the wild denizens later intruded on by humans.

The ancient ruins add an esoteric touch to the wildlife haven. Sesh Shaiyya on the way to Bandhavgarh Hillock is right out of the fairy tale. Its pristine surroundings and springs are in reality best described as fairy tale settings. The reclining statue of Lord Vishnu beside the pond makes it a place of religious importance for the locals.

On the way up are a number of zoomorphic statues of Lord Visnu some towering. Matsya Avatar - Varah Avatar and so on. The Laxman Temple sits atop the hill facing the beautiful grasslands valleys and neighboring mountains. Picturesque indeed! The Bandhavgarh Hill is steep and about 800m MSL. the hillock are an ideal breeding ground for Long Billed Vulture.

Bandhavgarh Fort at the top lies in ruins arch, a man-made reservoir, statues, and temple remains are littered all over. The remains boast of exquisite and colorful sculptural practice & art of ancient India. They are an archeological find dating back two thousand years in the recess of this old country.

The plateau is extensive and gives one an eerie feeling a spread of ruined civilization, tall grasslands, and a haunting specter of open spaces, mystical and esoteric as of the pristine wild country. The alarm cry or the tiger roar can be unnerving as I have experienced often.

Priest & Tiger

The Old Brahmin Pujari was a legendary figure. He walked about 11 km to the Laxman Temple, under the care of his family, since the Maharajas were ordained. He must have been the most familiar figure for the tigers that walked aside from him. He once told me that his meetings with tigers were often and it was you go your way and I go my way affair, strictly. He died a natural death and I believe his son has taken over.

Hills Glens & Rivers

Mahaman, Chur Bohera, Raj Bohera, Bathan are well-preserved grasslands. Their rivers crisscross Johilla, Charanganga, and Umrar. Must-visit for tiger sightings and landscape are Badi Gufa, Ghoda Damen, 10 No.GUFA and Andheri Jhiriya. The terrain is torturous and at places very steep. The safari is exciting over steep climbs, across grasslands and river beds the cliff tower over you all the time.

Forests

The abundance of SAL is evident but the park encompasses some of the finest bamboo slopes and mixed forests. The canopy is dense but withers as one moves along the periphery due to wood logging in the buffer.

Buffer

Once a large contiguous tract of the forest the park is now isolated. Neighboring forests are Pan Patha, Gunghuti and the Sihora Forest ranges at some distance. the forests leading to Amarkantak and Achanakmar belts have been badly denuded hence there is no migration path for any species. All around the reserve forest are in a bad state and hence tiger habitat has been reduced. There are villages surrounding the buffer and within with a large number of livestock. Except for tourism alternative means of survival have not been explored.

Tiger Safari

Tourism in the tiger reserves of Central India is monitored and well-managed. I have seen tiger tourism grow from infancy and simultaneously the wildlife has increased as well. Tourism has benefited local communities which were until then dependent upon infertile lands. The need for accommodation has brought in many hotels. The established hotels of Bandhavgarh employ a large number of youth. Most of these are from the local communities. Many get employment in the forest department as guides, chara cutters, guards and naturalists, etc. Plus the park is a nature library many tourists come and go with a greater understanding of nature, admiration for other life forms, and a desire to conserve valuable heritage.

The Tiger

It has been one hell of a journey for the beleaguered animal. It has been ignominiously pushed back to small pockets along with associates. We have never ceased to destroy nature, we have overpowered other life forms and taken their land away. The majestic cat is a silent and helpless observer as the axe continues to ravage his kingdoms all over the country.

Grasslands larger than life

The Meadows

Unique feature of the tiger reserves of Central India are the grasslands that lie interspersed between rugged mountains and enchanting valleys. Also known as boheras in Bandhavgarh and maidan in Kanha these are hub of activities in the ecosystem.

The grasslands or meadows are the center of attraction for man animals and birds alike. The tourist flock these meadows in order to see the tiger and the deer. Since the thick canopy obstructs wildlife sighting the tourist jeeps prefer to move around the grasslands in order to see the tigers.

Tigers love the tall grasses of the prairies and sulk in between to ambush prey. They love the cover of the tall grass and the shade. In Bandhavgarh tiger reserve the Boheras are marshy and have proven to be excellent hunting grounds for the tigers. The slush hinders fast movement of the deer and the big cats find it easy to pounce upon them.

In Kanha the meadows besides supporting the tigers are home to critically endangered Swamp Deer. This is the only hard ground Barasingha population left in the wild. The deer now survives in good enough numbers after it was brought back from brink of extinction. The swamp deer subsists only on certain species of grass and poses conservation challenge to park authorities.

The grasses are frequented not only by tigers and deer they are home to many species of birds and reptiles. With luck one can see the reticulated python or other snakes. Most often seen grass birds are plain prinia, jungle prinia, zitting cisticola, warblers, common stonechat, pipits and larks, francolins painted and grey, munias or avadavat, storks and many others.

In order to stalk prey tigers frequent these grassy maidans. Since the concentration of deer is very high hunting is much easier. In the open spaces movement is not hampered like in thick canopy. They are easily camouflaged in the dry grass and can hide easily. Hence spotting tigers in grasslands is not as easy as people presume.

The most popular grasslands in Bandhavgarh are Chur Bohera, Raj bohera, bathan and chakradhara. Similarly the Kanha meadow is most popular, preferred by animals and tourists alike. Others are Saunf meadow where Swamp Deer breed, Kisli meadow and Parsa tola to name a few.

Most of the grasslands are small in area whence compared with Dhikala Chuad in Corbett Tiger Reserve. The height is much less than elephant grass. Most of the grasslands in Central Indian Tiger Reserves in MP are edaphic. They were earlier settlements which have been trans located elsewhere. The vacated fields have been overtaken by local species of grass and secondary scrub.

The savannas are always under threat from fire and over grazing. Thankfully live stock is not allowed inside the core area and the park authorities are constantly guarding the habitats from fires. The predators maintain the right population of deer hence prevent overgrazing. A major challenge being faced by conservation team in Kanha emanates from the lendia tree. This tree is slowly encroaching into the grasslands and reducing them. The swamp deer depend entirely on these ecosystems hence to stop the encroachment or leave nature to take care of things is a difficult decision to be taken.

Besides habitats of many species in these National Parks the savannas are vital to the ecosystem. They constitute major support system to these diverse habitats and have tremendous water retention capacity.

Bison Translocation - New Dimension in Conservation

The recent ongoing trans location of Bison or Gaur from Kanha to Bandhavgarh TR accords a new dimension to wildlife conservation in India. Earlier the trans location of the Swamp Deer from Kanha to Bandhavgarh had failed miserably. It resulted in the death of all the Swamp Deer being trans located.

It was not only tragic but a great loss as well since the swamp deer or Hard Ground Barasingha is a highly endangered sub species found only in Kanha. The swamp deer were being translocated to Bandhavgarh a habitat which holds no historical record or evidence of swamp deer ever present there. But that was way back.

With induction of new technologies and technique the Bison trans location to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve would be more successful. Nature conservation in India is in a piteous state in spite of the country making long strides in every field. Whatever is said, nature is accorded a low priority here.

The conservation impetus thrives due to few individuals, NGO and some dedicated and committed officials who go unsung. The required political will is not there though there are exceptions.

The trans location of Bison is going to be a major challenge since the stock being translocated is not familiar with the terrain. The Bison in India are local migratory species and the migration pattern is strongly ingrained in the genes. The only hope is that the population was once interconnected before habitat destruction took place. This would mean presence of genetic traits which will help the coarse grazer to migrate to suitable pockets as seasons change.

But the challenge will remain, the threat from foot and mouth disease, rinderpest is for real. Until unless proper inoculation of live stock in the buffers takes place the whole exercise will be futile. I strongly believe that the local extinction of this bovine was due disease. There is no palpable reason why the stock would migrate to another habitat leaving the present habitat which is well conserved.

Another plus point is that both the tiger reserves are similar in habitat or forest types, though topography may differ. Bandhavgarh was the last and only strong hold of Gaur North of Narmada River. If the success takes place than the tragic local extinction would fade into history.

Though prevention is better than cure no one minds re-establishment of locally rare species. This is the case with Panna and Sariska as well. Spreading of rare genetic stocks in suitable habitats augurs greater survival chance.

Alarms bells should sound in case of Gir Lions a population enclosed in one habitat. An epidemic like FPL can wipe the whole population. Donating a pride to Palpur Kuno would mean one step forward in conservation. This in case of highly isolated lion population and only sub species in the World - Asiatic Lion.

Table Land Bandhavgarh & Kanha

The tiger reserves in Central India are unique with diverse terrain - typically rising and falling. The undulating terrain creates niche habitats often extensive.

While Bandhavgarh, North of Narmada is situated on the fringe of Vindhya Hill Range the forest extends to meet Achanakmar wildlife sanctuary which is partially contiguous with Kanha. Maikal Hill Range of Satpuda extends into Maharastra where Melghat Tiger Reserve is situated. Kanha is partially contiguous with Pench Tiger Reserve in Satpuda/Satpura Hills. This was once a contiguous forest patch spreading more than five thousand sq km.

Described as Central Indian Highlands By James Forsyth, the reserves are the true tiger havens. The topography accords bewildering diversity to floral elements which in turn creates habitats for multitudinous life forms. Once flourishing with tigers and Central Indian mammals the preserves have been brought back from certain denudation and catastrophe by conservation programs.

Though the forests have been reduced due to continuous wood logging in the past, the pristine forests still retain their glory.

Short hills and tablelands are unique to all tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh albeit the degree may vary slightly. Hillocks at Kanha called Dadars, are not as steep as some are in Bandhavgarh - more cliffs than mountains. The walls of the cliffs at places are steep and rocky and provide excellent nesting grounds for vultures and eagles.

Bahmni Dadar at Kanha and Bandhavgarh Hill at Bandhavgarh have large tablelands or plateaus. The floral elements vary at every climb eventually giving rise to a spectacular scape at the top. As you move up these mountains, a change in the canopy is evident. The slopes covered with bamboo give rise to a more complex mix of herbs, shrubs, vines, and mixed forests. The ecosystem differs from the grounds below.

Rather than chasing tigers in the meadows, these plateaus offer new grounds for exploration. Less seen species of birds and mammals could be sighted on these tabletop mountains.

The plateau is flat mostly edaphic grasslands with scattered tree lines. In Kanha, I have seen the four-horned deer often at Bamni Dadar though no record is found in the plains. Out of reach, these are perfect breeding grounds and shelters for tigers. This could be one reason for the high fecundity seen in these tiger reserves. Tigers in plains adjoining the villages are more susceptible to disease and poaching.

Bison or Gaur retreat to the hillside and perhaps the plateau during a verdant season in winter as they are coarse feeders. Unfortunately, the bovine is extinct in Bandhavgarh.

The plateau at Bandhavgarh and Kanha are worth exploring on jungle safari in the parks. A holistic insight into the wildlife and the ecosystem is the way to enjoy these tiger havens. The pristine forests have so much to offer that a lifetime is not enough.

Bandhavgarh fort plateau, Ghoda Damn, Cave No 10, and Bamni Dadar at Kanha are must-visits on a long-haul stay.

Tigers in the grasslands

Large extensive edaphic grasslands are typical to many of our tiger reserves. Earlier inhabited by local tribesmen these precious habitats were vacated for the subsistence of wild species to whom the habitat belonged for eons. The grasslands are prime habitats for deer species, especially for animals like the swamp deer. Swamp deer survive solely on marshy grasslands in India. The swamp deer or Barasingha at Kanha is an exception as it has adapted to an existence on hard ground. The grassy meadows are at the fulcrum of activities in our tiger reserves.

Most of the prey and predator saga unfolds here - the grassland is a vital element of the food chain. Bandhavgarh is a prime example of a grassland ecosystem interspersed with dense Sal forests. Many of the grasslands inhabited by tribesmen have been vacated. Inundated by rivulets, the wet marshy grasslands are preferred hunting grounds for the majestic tigers. Bandhavgarh though small is a prolific breeding ground for Bengal tigers. The undulating terrain, inaccessibility, dense canopy, and large prey base is the reason. The survival rate of the cubs is very high in this picturesque animal kingdom. The tall grass act as effective camouflage and hence allows the tigers to creep close to the prey before striking. 

Unlike lions, tigers cannot run for a long distance hence they hunt by ambush. The marshy grasslands are effective killing grounds and the big cats love them. They are excellent for raring cubs in absolute safety and shelter. The grassland ecosystem is frequented by a large number of herbivores and hence are ideal prey base. The most powerful of the tiger's reign over these habitats. The meadows are also frequented by territorial females and young males. The struggle for survival means the fittest should exist. Prime grasslands in BTR are Chur Behera, Raj Behera, Chakradhara, Bathan, Sehra, and Mahman. High fecundity, low mortality, and abundant prey make the preserve an ideal tiger habitat with the highest density. For this reason, tiger sightings in the wild are very high. The jungle roads intersect prime tiger habitats in order to accord high visibility to these magical cats. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed. 

A large number of wildlife resorts are available for stay in Bandhavgarh. One can avail of the best packages for accommodation. For safari, jeeps can be hired at Tala village or arranged by the hotels. The tiger reserve is well protected though danger looms all over. Bandhavgarh nature preserve in India is the best place to see tigers in the wild. Every year thousands from all over the World visit the park.

Bandhavgarh Personified

The jungles of India intrigue and fascinate humans. They exude an aura of mystery and mystical charm and unparalleled natural beauty. The animal kingdoms in India for thousands of years have bedazzled humans and attracted them to admire, explore study, and record aspects of nature's masterpiece. Throughout annals of history animals and birds and forests find mentioned by kings, court historians, writers, poets, ascetics, and local communities.
Photos By. Mr.Kamaljeet Hora

Bandhavgarh jungle was once contiguous with Central India Highlands and Vindhyan Ranges. It is now more or less fragmented and isolated, connected perhaps with Kanha and Achanakmar with nonviable badly deforested corridors.

Small and confined, the jungles of Bandhavgarh are the epitome of exceptional beauty and exude an aura of mystique. The spectacular esoteric, fairy tale settings and element of mystery remain. The terrain is unique in steep rocky hills, marshy grasslands, and a dense canopy of tropical moist forests. In between the forested slopes and marshy glens traverse small rivers - lifelines of the ecosystem. The enigmatic landscape heightens the perception of depth, stirs imagination, and peppers mind and body.

The thrill of exploring mysterious jungle life is heightened by equally mysterious elusive animals that exude charisma, fear, and awe. The tiger rules supreme, King personified and embellished in myths, arts, literature, and cultures all over the World.

Bandhavgarh in its niche habitats, unfathomable caves amidst rocky crevices, towering hillocks,  and sun-baked plateaus nourishes remains of ancient kingdoms. Of Kings and Queens who ruled in glorious times and were eventually vanquished by conquerors. The ruins lie scattered unfolding saga of human civilizations that sought shelter in the unreachable and secure womb of these dense forests.

Bandhavgarh is a fascinating blend of ancient history and equally fascinating jungle life. The pristine forests, prehistoric petrographic and man-made caves, zoomorphic idols, ancient temples, stables, reservoirs, and a magnificent fort stand testimony to ancient civilizations that coexisted with nature.

The park is the best place to watch tigers in the wild. In a small area of 400 plus sq. km, a large population of Bengal tigers survives. The tigers of Bandhavgarh have been epitomized and made eternal by filmmakers, wildlife photographers, and storytellers alike. Be it the legendary Badka, Sita, or awesome Charger all have been objects of sustained documentation and study. The stars of this wildlife resort have propelled it to International fame and mention. Visited by a large number of inbound and Indian tourists the park invites more and more visitors every year. One can see a large cross-section of the park on safaris and enjoy big games and birding. The resort offers all king of hotel accommodations from super luxurious to budget.

The core focus in Bandhavgarh National Park in MP has always been on tigers due to high visibility and fecundity. On safari besides tigers and leopards, one can see many deer species, lesser carnivores, and small often nocturnal mammals. Bird life at Bandhavgarh is interesting and invites many birdwatchers to the preserve. The impressive biodiversity is best experienced during a long stay and repeated visits.

The park is accessible from Jabalpur by road (4 hrs +) which is connected by flight service with New Delhi. Utkal Express makes a short stop at Umaria rail head about 32 km from the tiger preserve. From Khajuraho, BTR is a 6 to 7 hours drive.

Tourism at Bandhavgarh

Well known for its tigers and wildlife safaris Bandhavgarh is the most picturesque resort in the World. Not as large as Kanha or Pench it is quintessentially a tiger reserve. The density of tigers is the highest here. It is the topography that supports tigers the best. The topography comprises steep hills and hillocks with tableland at the top. The diversity of life forms is worth observing.

In between are deep glens with forested slopes, rivers, and grasslands. The terrain does not permit human movement in many places. There are many inaccessible areas some of which are motorable but tourists rarely go there. The inaccessibility has prevented human encroachment. This has been one of the reasons for the eventual survival of the tigers at Bandhavgarh. The prey base is excellent and the marshy grasslands are ideal hunting grounds for dominant tigers.

Like Kanha, the park offers the best chance to see the tiger in the wild on a jeep safari. The tourism zone comprises marshy grasslands where tigers abound. They can be seen in broad daylight by chance. The dense canopy of the forested regions offers little chance to see the tiger since there is plenty of covers.

The tigers are everywhere even near the resorts in Bandhavgarh National Park. They can be seen with luck on road to Tala and near some villages. There are incidences of man-animal conflict and the animal is the sufferer. There are many villages yet to be relocated from within the park.

Tiger Safari

Tiger safari is conducted in the core zone of the park. There are two safaris in the jungle early morning and late evening. There are now two entrance gates but the Tala Gate is very popular. The road runs parallel to the Charanganga River offering a good chance to sight the big cat, especially in summer. There is a split at some juncture one jungle road leads to Chur Bohera meadow. This is again a good spot to see the tigers in the wild. Wildlife safaris in Bandhavgarh Jungle would now be route based for individual vehicles. This is good and prevents the concentration of vehicles in one spot.

One can score Mahaman and Raj Bohera for some exciting moments. Waiting patiently at Gopal Talao and other water bodies could fetch some exciting mammal sightings including the tiger. On jeep, safari silence is the rule and keen eyes are a necessity. This is essential to catch sight of wild animals or hear telltale signs of their presence. Pug mark trekking is also good but by the time you have come across the mark, the tiger has already slithered away.

Having a holistic experience is an essential way of holidaying at tiger reserves and National Parks in India. The jungle has so much to offer in terms of wildlife sightings, birding, and soothing calm in a pristine environment.

Wildlife & Tourism

Other animals to be seen at Bandhavgarh are Leopard, Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Dog, Barking Deer, Sloth Bear, Four Horned Deer, Langurs, Wild Boar, Jungle Cat, Jackal, Fox, and Rhesus Macaque. A night safari outside the park could yield small mammals, civet cats, ratel, and porcupines. Night safaris are not allowed inside the preserve. Pythons and other reptiles are seen with luck.

Nilgai is often seen at Bathan but Hyenas and Indian Wolf are scared... I have never seen them at the scrub outside the park. The nature preserve offers the finest birding opportunity for forest birds and often some wetland birds.

Places of interest are the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, temples, stables, Sesh Shaiyya, man-made caves with ancient Brahmi script, and zoomorphic avatars of Lord Vishnu.

The tourism infrastructure is well set in the reserve. The safaris are regulated by the forest department. It is a must to hire a park guide on safaris. At the gates, the fee is charged on a per-vehicle basis and a separate fee has to be paid for filming equipment - cameras, videos, and movie cameras. There is a wildlife interpretation center at Tala Gate. Tala village is a small shopping center and eatables are available.

The jeeps are available for hire most of the hotels in Bandhavgarh arrange jeep safaris. Hence those on the jungle plan benefit a lot. There are many hotels, wildlife resorts, and lodges outside the preserve. The rates are for all budgets - super luxury to budget accommodation.

Season

The park opens in October and closes in June end. All time is a good time to holiday at this reserve but avoid the holiday season especially major festivals.

The winters are very cold hence warm clothing, hand gloves, and headgear is a must. Summer is hot...not for those who cannot bear the heat.

How to Reach

The park can be reached by 5 hrs drive from Jabalpur by road and rail (Umaria). Jabalpur is connected by air to New Delhi. Overnight train from New Delhi - Utkal Express reaches Umaria in the morning. This railhead is about 32 km from the park gate.

Plan your safaris well and enjoy the most exciting heart throbbing wildlife holiday ever.

Bandhavgarh ecosystem

Bandhavgarh is a moist deciduous tropical forest type. It is situated in the Vindhya Range which lies in the Central Indian State of Madhya Pradesh. The forest flora comprises Sal (Shorea Robusta) as the dominant species with Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus) on slopes of hills. The other tree elements comprise Saj, Dhawa, Bhilma, Tendu, Bel, Harra, Bija, Lyndia, Arjun, Mahua, Pipal, Banyan, Kosum, Palas, Salai, Gunjan, Char, Jamun, Aonla, Pakur, Kulu, Amaltas and many more. The woody climbers, herbs, and shrubs constitute the understory.

The grasslands of Bandhavgarh are marshily inundated by Charanganga, Johilla, and Umrar rivers. The marshy grasslands are ideal grounds for hunting Bengal tigers. Most of the grasslands at Bandhavgarh are edaphic but support the herbivores like spotted deer and sambar. There is no historical record of Swamp deer at Bandhavgarh National Park. The only coarse grazer Indian bison or gaur has lost ground here.

The terrain is undulating and comprises steep rocky cliffs many with forested slopes. The valleys that hold marshy grasslands, forest, and crisscrossing rivulets are prime habitats of the herbivores and carnivores follow them here.

There are thirty-two hillocks of which Bandhavgarh Hill is the highest. This is where the Fort is situated alongside Laxman Temple. On the way to the hill is Sesh Shaiiya a fairy pool with reclining Vishnu carved out of rock. On the way up there are many zoomorphic forms of Lord Vishnu carved out of the rocks. The hill expresses solitude and an esoteric charm difficult to behold. Very few tourists visit this place.

Of the grasslands called bahera, Chakradhara and Chur Bahera are famous for tiger safaris in Bandhavgarh. It is here that lot many tiger sightings take place. The Raj Bahera perhaps the largest was home to the gaurs and herds of deer and wild boar. I have experienced a few tiger sightings here. Other interesting places are Shera Dadra, Mahaman, Bathan, Ghoda Daman, and Andheri Jhiriya.

There are many water bodies, small lakes, ponds, water holes, and small streams that form the life support system of the park. Besides one can spot some water birds as well. The preserve is rich in bird life and can be constituted as a major birding spot for forest birds.

The tiger sits at the apex of the food chain and hence is the keystone species being a tertiary carnivore. The leopards and wild dogs are at the top rung of the food chain a degree less than the tigers. The consumers comprise mainly spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, and four-horned deer. The Nilgai keeps open areas of the park on the exterior of Bathan and elsewhere. The chinkara has not been seen in my numerous visits since last decade. The nocturnal animals are less seen as night safaris are not allowed in the park. Sloth bears, foxes, ratel, porcupines, civet cats, flying squirrels, and the rest can be seen on the night drives on the periphery of public roads. Jackals, mongooses, and jungle cats are diurnal. Flash and spotlights are not allowed. Hyenas and Indian wolves are less seen and their status is unknown. The sighting of the caracal is not confirmed. Mouse deer recently discovered in Kanha wildlife preserve is not check listed here.

The reptiles common are grass snakes, pythons, cobras, krait, vipers, rat snakes, keelbacks, tree snakes, and many more are less seen perhaps more apparent during the monsoons whence the preserve is closed. Monitor lizards and flying lizards are present here.

The insect life in thousands is yet to be discovered with butterflies being the most exciting elements. Signature spiders and other species are widespread while moths can be sighted here and there.

The producers are indescribable...perhaps a botanist would do a better job. But the floral diversity is as striking as the fauna is. From microorganisms to algae and fungi and exotic plants such as Sundew (Drossera indica) The park is limited by its canopy spread and the designated area by Project Tiger holds little meaning. The support systems are all around and habitats outside park confines are as important.

Bandhavgarh forests were earlier favored hunting grounds for Maharajas of Rewa. The intact ecosystem as of today is perhaps a result of the zealous preservation of the forests for their sport. After Independence Bandhavgarh Park was declared a tiger reserve. The project initiated by the government of India is to conserve tiger habitats and its tigers. The park has shown excellent response to conservation efforts. The tigers and other wildlife flourish with gusto.

The park has the highest density of tigers in India and hence is the best place to see tigers in the wild. Though not absolutely safe from poachers and wood smugglers the inaccessible hilly regions perhaps are a boon to wildlife here.

Bison translocation Bandhavgarh Wildlife Refuge

Bison in Bandhavgarh was the only population that survived North of the River Narmada in MP, India. The last remaining populations which I saw in the late seventies numbered around sixty-four animals. The number subsequently went down to about thirty-two animals and then perished in the late nineties.

The bison (Gaur) of Bandhavgarh is the same species as found in Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India. The present population at Kanha Tiger Reserve is over 600 animals. The project to translocate a few heads to Bandhavgarh from Kanha or Pench is a good move. The trans location project augurs hope for the animal to survive in another pocket that was home to its erstwhile brethren.

Bison species are by nature local migratory. Being a coarse feeder it moves up the hills in the neighboring forest. In the case of Bandhavgarh, the population was supposed to migrate to Ghunguhti forests nearby. In summer the Gaur herd moved to mainly Raj Behera meadow in Bandhavgarh. This local migration in summer is to get fodder in form of grass and water as the food/water supply diminishes up the hills. This is also a natural way of controlling grazing in one place.

The problem I presume with the trans location of Bison would be that the animals will be penned for some time, this is in contrary to their nature. What would be better than if the trans-located herd desires to express movement, it should be allowed to do so under supervision? The animals should be constantly tracked and monitored. The imperative would be the inoculation of disease among livestock in the surroundings. This is the primary reason why Bison did not survive in the park. The animals are susceptible to rinderpest, foot and mouth disease mainly, and the carriers are the livestock.

It would interesting to see if animals migrate accurately in unknown habitats. Does their instinct build up over thousands of years direct them to a safe secure place with food and water supply?

How would the trans-located wild animal population fare in a suitable but unknown ecosystem?

Another important intervention initially would be the protection of fawns by tigers. At Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve the tiger density in the forest zones is very high. Threat to the fawns would be substantial in this park. Large tigers also prey on adult bison successfully. Like the Swamp Deer project at Kanha, fawn predation control would be of great help in this endeavor.

But protection from disease, and enabling local migration would be impertinent if the Bison project has to succeed.

For how long will we be able to resort to human intervention - can't we learn to protect wildlife better in order to avoid such contingencies?

Forest birds of Kanha and Bandhavgarh

Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park offer the best birding opportunity. The bird species checklist surpasses the 250 mark about 50 species less than the Bharatpur bird sanctuary in Rajasthan.

Birdwatching is catching up in these tiger reserves but then birds are not seen en mass here. Forest birding is always straining unless you come across a mixed hunting party. Winters is the best time for birding in these parks but the thick forest canopy makes bird watching strenuous.

Winter visitors or migratory birds arrive from October onwards and one can see ultramarine flycatchers, Hume's warbler, greenish warbler, sulfur bellied warbler, Tickell's warbler, black redstart, pintails, common teals, Asian brown flycatcher, and wagtails. Many species of pipits that migrate in winter can also be seen.

Common birds are grey hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, orioles, nuthatches, parakeets, drongos, cuckoos, barbets, owls, owlets, crested hawk eagles, crested serpent eagles, honey buzzards, black-naped flycatcher, paradise flycatcher, verditor, Tickell's blue flycatcher, white-eyed buzzard, mynas, sparrows, Greater racket-tailed drongo, orange headed thrush, black-necked stork, lesser adjutant stork and painted stork. There are many more...

The checklist of Bandhavgarh National Park is the same as that of Kanha National Park albeit with minor variations. In these tiger reserves, the terrain varies although the forest habitat is the same. Wetlands birds do not visit these tiger reserves in great numbers as large water bodies are absent, nevertheless, many ducks, teals, sandpipers, and wagtails can be seen during the winters.

Many tour operators, hotels and wildlife resorts now offer birding as an option along with tiger safaris in the park. Those with in house professional naturalists and birding guides deliver the best.

Bandhavgarh National Park History

Bandhavgarh is a unique tiger reserve situated in Vindhya in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India. Though small as compared to Kanha National Park in size, it equals it in the case of floral biodiversity. The mammal species are less in number at Bandhavgarh Park, but nevertheless, the easy sightings of Bengal tigers in the wild and unparalleled beauty make it a unique destination. The hard ground Barasingha has not been recorded here. The Bisons of Bandhavgarh became extinct a few years back. Besides these animals, the park has all the mammals typical to Central India. It is most frequented by wildlife lovers, naturalists, and photographers in India.

The most enchanting paradise in India Bandhavgarh National Park has undulating terrain with igneous rocks, large marshy grasslands, and densely forested hill slopes. It is unique that it holds ruins of ancient civilizations in its folds. Littered all over the park are man-made caves, ancient temples, stables, and ruins of a once magnificent fort atop the Bandhavgarh Hill at 800 m. The monuments most of them in ruins date two thousand years back. The last dynasty to rule the Bandhavgarh fort was the Baghel Kings Maharajas of Rewa.

Amidst the ruins and rubble roam wild tigers and other animals. The Sesh Shaiyya, on the way up to the fort, is a fairytale-like pond with a reclining Vishnu carved in stone on one side. The statue is carved out of rock and is twenty feet long. It is a magnificent site - quaint and esoteric. The tigers roam in the dense vegetation surrounding the place. In summers, whence water is scarce the area is usually the haunt of tigress with cubs.

Sita the famous tigress of Bandhavgarh preserve was often sighted at Sesh Shaiyya with her cubs. Charger the famous male tiger, who along with Sita sired many of Bandhavgarh's young tigers, and once ruled this habitat for years.

Most of the hotels in Bandhavgarh National Park arrange a visit to Sesh Shaiyya. A big respite to hotel guests tired from many a frantic tiger chase. The ambiance is soothing and calm and a tiger passing by adds to the thrill.

For those on a tiger safari in Bandhavgarh, a visit to this enchanting place will add much to wildlife watching. The hotels and wildlife resorts do arrange for a visit to Sesh Shaiyya and the Fort on prior intimation.

Wildlife Photographic Expeditions & Workshops

Nature PhotographyWorkshops & Tiger Safari

Kanha & Bandhavgarh

Once again Hotel Celebration Group is organizing photographic expedition cum workshop to photograph tigers and other wildlife at:

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve …………………date 17th to 20th November 2009

Kanha Tiger Reserve……………………………date 14th to 17th November 2009

These are the best tiger habitats in Central India in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Tiger reserves are most popular all over the world for wildlife conservation. Kanha and Bandhavgarh are the best places to see and photograph tigers in the wild.

The two safaris aim to give you maximum exposure to wildlife photography alongside noted wildlife photographer Mr. Kalyan Verma.

This is your best chance to see and photograph Tigers in the wild. These safaris are designed for you to have the maximum wildlife experience at Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks. You will return home with breathtaking images of wild Bengal tigers, and a host of the park's enthralling wilderness - deer, leopard, wild boar, sloth bear, wild dog, bison, and wonderful birds and butterflies.

The safaris are accompanied by workshops on photography every evening. The topics range from information on equipment – lens and cameras. Learn various techniques involved in wildlife photography from experts. Find information on different aspects of photography like macro and bird photography, composition, post-processing to natural history and field techniques, and much more.

Features:
• Four days/Three-night stay at Celebration Van Vilas Resort in Kanha / Bandhavgarh National Park or both.
• Five tiger safaris at each park with 4 persons on jeep for an ideal photographic experience.
• Get an opportunity for amazing habitat and landscape photography opportunity.
• Safari includes elephant back tiger watching and photography.
• Learn nature photography techniques, tips, and processing
• Review images each day post-safari.
• Lecture on Tiger Conservation by the WWF Regional Director.
• Informal and fun photography sessions – no grind.
• Mr. Kalyan Verma will shoot alongside you and deliver valuable information.
• Work side by side in groups with expert guidance all along.
• Share knowledge and vision - gain perspective.
• Mr. Kalyan Verma is a professional nature photographer and experienced naturalist in India.

Accommodation
Stay at the finest three-star resort The Celebration Van Vilas in Kanha and Bandhavgarh parks. The luxury lodges are situated at a walkable distance from the park gates. The wildlife lodge provides state of art service, luxurious comforts, and modern amenities. Relish traditional Indian and continental cuisine created by professional chefs.

Who partakes in the safari?

1. Photographers are beginners, amateurs, and professionals.

2. For seasoned photographers venturing into nature photography to further their skills.

3. Just anybody wishing to join these heart-throbbing wildlife safaris and gain knowledge.

What is there in the package?

* Five jeep safaris at both parks each.
* All gate fees.
* Stay as mentioned above on double occupancy basis.
* All meals including morning and evening tea.
* Services of naturalist guides and professional jungle drivers.

What is not included?

* Your traveling costs to and fro from the parks.
* Elephant rides.
* Fee - passport, visa, immunization, insurance, and airport taxes.
* Beverages alcoholic/nonalcoholic.
* Laundry, phone, personal expenses.

Package Cost.

The package... either at Kanha or Bandhavgarh is Rs 14,800 per person.
For participation in both safaris, the package is Rs 27,800 per person. (Incl. transfer between parks).

Accommodation is on twin sharing basis. For private single occupancy, there will be an additional charge of 3000 Rs.

Wish to be part of this wonderful offer?
Then register now:

Send an email: kalian@rtns.org

Provide the following information……

Name:

Email:

Phone:


More Info. Visit Website of Mr Kalyan Verma...

Tiger News

In perhaps what could be termed as unprecedented? Mr. Chouhan the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh the tiger state of India has transferred the Field Directors of three tiger reserves on account of negligence and dereliction of duty.

As per the news published in Indian Express and the local Jabalpur daily, they are the field directors of Kanha National Park, Panna, and Bandhavgarh tiger reserve in MP. Of late there had been lots of reports of questionable deaths of tigers and mismanagement of the parks.

The tigers of Mukki Range in Kanha have suffered and have been wiped out. The current evidence of tigers there suggests movement from the Kanha Range of the park. Subsequently, pressure came from the Central Government.

An investigative report conducted by NTCA or National Tiger Conservation Authority states the absence of tigers from key habitats in the parks. This is, by all means, alarming, and more tiger reserves would go the Sariska and Panna way.

The action of the Chief Minister of MP is coupled with an investigation into the performance of past Field directors for evidence of apathy and negligence and a special investigation at Panna for the complete decimation of tigers that have taken place there. An independent committee will conduct a probe as well as at other places where tiger deaths have occurred.

This is a heartening step for tiger conservationists in India and all over the World. Such action would at least reduce negligence and irresponsible governance by the staff at these tiger reserves.

Rarely have I seen any concerted action from a political big wig in India. But what remains to be seen is what action will be taken against those found guilty?

It must be noted that in many instances the staff and administration have shown neglect and apathy whence protection is concerned. What is required is to place these reserves in a special category and induct highly trained, dedicated, and committed staff who is capable of policing as well managing tiger reserves. All these qualities are prerequisites in top brass as well as those at the grassroots.

I have come across some officers who fit the bill, they should be permanently placed in sensitive biodiversity-rich ecosystems.

Birding at Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is famous for tiger safaris. But more is needed to know about the birding potential that the park offers. The tiger has been the focus of attention here, but many interested tourists and wild lifers have had a keen eye for the birds in the past.

Bandhavgarh has many interesting species such as Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Eurasian Golden Oriole, Black Hooded Oriole, Racket Tailed Drongo, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Crested Serpent Eagle, Crested Hawk Eagle, Honey Buzzard, Bonelli's Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Verditor Flycatcher, Black-rumped Flameback, Streaked Woodpecker, Rufous Woodpecker, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Sirkeer Malkoha Alexandrine Parakeet, Brown Fish Owl, Brown Hawk Owl, Sarus Crane, Hen Harrier, and Pied Harrier. The now rare White-rumped Vulture and Indian Vulture can be seen at Bandhavgarh. The steep cliffs accord the perfect nesting site for Indian Vultures. The wetlands inside the park are not extensive and I have barely seen some Northern Pintails, Comb Duck, Lesser Whistling Teal, Painted Storks, Cotton Pygmy Geese, and Ruddy Shelduck. A recce at Bamera Dam and other such places should result in good species of migratory ducks and waders.

With luck Eurasian Hobby, Peregrine Falcon and Common Kestrel can be sighted. There have been more than two hundred fifty bird species including migrants seen in the park. Many species can be seen near Bandhavgarh Lodges which offer hotel accommodations for tiger safaris in the park.

Most of the hotels in the tiger reserve have trained naturalists with good knowledge of birds. This helps tourists on wildlife safaris in the park. Trained bird specialists help professional birders from various regions understand the avifauna of the reserve.

Bandhavgarh has great potential as a birding destination, and professional birding groups will have a successful trip. The best time for bird tours would be winter when the migrants augment the number of bird species. But as the foliage is thick birding can be difficult nevertheless, the findings could be fascinating for bird lovers.

Forest birding is always exciting and full of surprises. Though Bandhavgarh does not have as many species as Corbett National Park, birding here is fascinating especially to sight birds of Central India. Bandhavgarh and Kanha will be interesting additions to birding trips in India.