Jungle Safari in Kanha & Bandhavgarh

Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the “Heart of India,” is home to some of the most magnificent wildlife sanctuaries in the country. Among them, Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park stand out as two of the most renowned destinations for wildlife enthusiasts. These national parks offer an unparalleled jungle safari experience, showcasing India’s rich biodiversity, including the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. If you love nature, adventure, and the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, a safari in Kanha and Bandhavgarh is a must.

Jungle Safari Kanha National Park: The Inspiration Behind The Jungle Book

Kanha National Park, spread across Mandla and Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s largest tiger reserves. The park’s lush sal and bamboo forests, meadows, and streams inspired Rudyard Kipling’s famous novel, The Jungle Book.

Key Attractions:

• Wildlife Diversity: Kanha is home to Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, Indian wild dogs, sloth bears, and over 300 species of birds.
• Barasingha (Swamp Deer): Kanha is famous for saving the Barasingha from extinction. Today, it remains one of the best places to see this species in the wild.
• Kanha Meadow: A vast grassland offering stunning views and frequent tiger sightings.
• Bamni Dadar (Sunset Point): Known as the highest plateau in Kanha, it provides breathtaking sunset views.

Jungle Safari Experience:

• Safaris are conducted in open gypsy vehicles with trained guides.
• Options include Morning Safari (6:00 AM – 11:00 AM) and Evening Safari (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
• The best time to visit Kanha for tiger sightings is between March and June when animals come out to waterholes.

Jungle Safari Bandhavgarh National Park: The Land of the Highest Tiger Density

Bandhavgarh National Park, situated in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, is known for having the highest density of tigers in India. The park also has a rich historical and mythological significance, with ancient caves, temples, and the Bandhavgarh Fort adding to its charm.

Key Attractions:

• Royal Bengal Tigers: Bandhavgarh is one of the best places to see tigers in the wild due to its high density.
• Bandhavgarh Fort: A 2,000-year-old fort, believed to have been gifted to Lakshmana by Lord Rama, offers panoramic views of the jungle.
• Badi Gufa: Ancient caves with mysterious carvings and structures, possibly used by monks centuries ago.
• Rich Flora & Fauna: Besides tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to leopards, deer, wild boars, and langurs.

Jungle Safari Experience:

• Safaris take place in three main zones: Tala (most popular for tiger sightings), Magadhi, and Khitauli.
• Morning Safari (6:00 AM – 10:30 AM) & Evening Safari (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM).
• Elephant Safaris are also available for a unique jungle experience.

Best Time to Visit Jungle Safari Kanha & Bandhavgarh

The best time to visit both parks depends on the kind of experience you seek:

• October to February: Pleasant weather, lush greenery, and great for birdwatching.
• March to June: Best time for tiger sightings as animals come out in search of water.
• July to September: Parks remain closed due to the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Kanha National Park:

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jabalpur (160 km away).
• By Rail: Nearest railway station is Jabalpur.
• By Road: Well-connected by road from Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Raipur.

Bandhavgarh National Park:

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jabalpur (200 km away).
• By Rail: Nearest railway station is Umaria (35 km away).
• By Road: Easily accessible from Jabalpur, Katni, and Satna.

Jungle Safari Booking Tips

• Book Safari in Advance: Both Kanha and Bandhavgarh have limited safari permits. Booking early increases your chances of getting a good safari zone.
• Choose Tala Zone for Bandhavgarh: If you want to maximize your tiger sighting chances, the Tala zone is the most recommended.
• Hire an Experienced Guide: A knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your wildlife spotting experience.
• Respect Nature: Follow park rules, maintain silence, and do not litter to preserve the sanctity of these parks.

Conclusion

A jungle safari in Kanha and Bandhavgarh is an experience like no other, offering thrilling encounters with wildlife, mesmerizing landscapes, and an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, these national parks promise an unforgettable journey into the wild. Plan your visit, embark on an exhilarating safari, and witness the majestic beauty of India’s rich biodiversity in Kanha and Bandhavgarh!