In the heart of Incredible India lies the significant place of Bandhavgarh. Popularly known for being home to the Royal Bengal Tigers, this place also holds religious significance dating back to the times of Ramayana,
As per popular beliefs, the Bandhavgarh Fort was gifted by Lord Rama to his younger brother Lakshmana. He wanted the latter to keep a watch on Lanka from this fort. That’s how this place got its name.
Bandhavgarh comprises two words, “Bandhav”, meaning ‘Brother’ and “Garh”, meaning ‘Fort’. Thus, Bandhavgarh means ‘brother’s fort’. Earlier, this place was used as a hunting lodge by the kings, but now it has become a national park. Therefore, Bandhavgarh is often referred to as Bandhavgarh National Park.
Places to Visit in Bandhavgarh
- Badi Gufa
Badi Gufa is the biggest cave in Bandhavgarh. They were carved from sandstone rock during the 10th century. In the medieval period, the king’s army used them as shelters.
- Bandhavgarh Fort
The Bandhavgarh fort is about 2000 years old, per Narad Panch Ratra and Shiva Purana. After being ruled by various dynasties, it was deserted in 1935. It contains several artificial caves and rock paintings and is considered a masterpiece of the Treta Yuga.
- Bandhavgarh National Park
The most popular tourist destination in this place is the Bandhavgarh National Park. It is home to 37 species of mammals, 80 species of butterflies, 250 species of birds and quite a few Royal Bengal Tigers. Jeep Safari here is very popular and gives you a memorable wildlife experience.
- Sheesh Shaiya
Inside the Bandhavgarh National Park, the 10th-century reclining statue of Lord Vishnu is situated. Besides tigers, it is a famous spot for which this place is known.
- Three Cave Point
The Three Caves Point is another must-visit place in Bandhavgarh. Leopards, tigers and sloth bears are found here, and it has beautifully carved surroundings.
Best time to visit Bandhavgarh
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh is from October to April. The weather remains suitable for travelling compared to other months of the year.
Accommodation at Bandhavgarh
When in Bandhavgarh, you can plan your stay at the following places:
- Mogli Resort
Address: L 10, Sainik Society, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, PIN Code 482001
Contact no.: +91-9425156254
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mogliresorts.com
- Madhya Pradesh Tourism’s White Tiger Forest Lodge
Address: MPT White Tiger Forest Lodge, Bandhavgarh
Contact no.: 7880108526 and 07627265406
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mpstdc.com
Places to eat in Bandhavgarh
You can satisfy your hunger at a multi-cuisine restaurant called Jungle Restaurant in the Syna Tiger Resort. Another restaurant, Her Cafe, is also a good choice for Indian, Italian, Chinese and Continental cuisine.
How to reach Bandhavgarh?
You can reach the royal city of Bandhavgarh in the following ways:
- By Air
Jabalpur Airport is the nearest to Bandhavgarh. It is 190 Km away from the city and 237 km away from Khajuraho. You can reach here after a five-hour-long drive.
- By Train
There are four nearest railway stations to Bandhavgarh. The Jabalpur Railway Station is located 190 Km away. The Katni Railway Station is located at a distance of 102 km, the Satna Railway Station on the Central Railway is at 120 Km, and the Umaria Railway Station on the South Eastern Railway is just 35 Km away.
- By Road
Both public and private transport are available to reach Bandhavgarh from Katni, Umaria, Satna and Rewa. Taxis can also be taken from Satna, Jabalpur, Katni, Umari and Khajuraho to Bandhavgarh.
