Tigers and India are almost synonymous. Many westerners still have the impression that India is a land of tigers and elephants. Well, elephants maybe, but tigers not so much, not now. They are fast disappearing, and Bandhavgarh is one of the few remaining places where the tiger is still the lord of the jungle.
Bandhavgarh is located on the eastern edge of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The village of Tala serves as the base for safaris into the forest. There are two safaris everyday – one in the morning and other in the afternoon. Bandhavgarh is your best bet to watch the tiger. I stayed there for two days, and was lucky enough to spot tigers on all the safaris.
During the safari, you will have to hire a jeep (4 wheel drive). Each jeep normally seats 4 plus the driver and the forest guide. As soon as you enter through the gate, and drive for 10 minutes, you will realise that you are in a completely different world. Turn off the engine of the jeep, and you hear nothing but the sounds of the forest. You are suddenly one with nature. Another option is to get onto an elephant! My advice to anyone going to Bandhavgarh is that you should not go there with the sole purpose of spotting the tiger. Go there to enjoy the jungle, and you will be amazed at the sheer beauty of the place.
There is no such thing as ‘best time’ to visit Bandhavgarh. Each season has something unique to offer. Summers are best to spot tigers since they flock the watering holes. But this season is scorching hot. The monsoons turn the forest lush green. And winters are good to enjoy the jungle at a leisurely pace.
Lastly, don’t forget to go to Bansi Dhaba for some lip smacking Indian food. You can easily spot this restaurant on the main road in Tala.
Tags: Bandhavgarh, Forest, Nature, Outdoors, Photo-ops, Tiger, Wildlife
Bansi Dhaba rocks!!!