About Bandhavgarh

Madhya Pradesh

BandhavgarhBandhavgarh
Aangan RestaurantAangan Restaurant
Bandhavgarh FortBandhavgarh Fort
Bandhavgarh Tiger ReserveBandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Cafe MalayaCafe Malaya
Hotel PawanHotel Pawan
Khitauli ZoneKhitauli Zone
Magadhi ZoneMagadhi Zone
Mahua RestaurantMahua Restaurant
Star DhabaStar Dhaba

Overview

Bandhavgarh is the safari area in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh that surrounds Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, famous for some of the best tiger sightings in India. Small villages and lodges sit around the Tala gate, with the old fort hill rising over the forest. Jeep safaris in the Tala, Magadhi and Khitauli core zones, plus buffer zones, are the reason to come, so plan two or three nights and several drives. Book permits early on the Madhya Pradesh forest portal, and choose a lodge close to the gate of your booked zone.

Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-JunBest Window

Why visit

Core zones are open from 1 October to 30 June. March to June brings the best tiger sightings as animals gather at waterholes; November to February is cool and green.

Keep in mind

Winter holidays and long weekends sell out core permits early, and April to June afternoons are very hot.

How to Reach Bandhavgarh

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Umaria railway station is about 35 km from Tala, and Katni about 100 km. Jabalpur has the nearest airport, about 170 km away.

Getting Around Bandhavgarh

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Safari gypsies with forest guides are booked at the gates or through your lodge. There is little public transport around Tala.

Best Areas to Stay in Bandhavgarh

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Tala village

Safari focused stays

Most lodges and resorts are within a few kilometres of the Tala gate, which also serves the Magadhi zone.

Umaria

Budget stays and late trains

A small district town with basic hotels near the railway station.