There are two safaris a day in Bandhavgarh National Park, one starting in the morning and the other late in the afternoon. While one can take one’s petrol driven vehicles (diesel vehicles are not allowed), the best way to see the park and its inhabitants is by 4×4 open jeep. 4 wheel drive jeeps called “Gypsys” (which seat upto six visitors) are available for hire at Tala. Even the hotels will arrange jeeps for their guests. The hotels have tied up with the better jeep drivers, and have their own naturalists.
During season time it will be better to have the hotels arrange the jeeps for you so that you get a good driver. Very often the driver ends up giving you more information than the guide the forest department gives you, and which is compulsory to have.
Tiger Shows – Early in the morning mahouts head out on elephant back to track down a tiger. Once the tiger settles down in a spot, the word is spread and the vehicles collect at a point close to where the tiger is. If it is away from the track, you can then decide whether you would like to be a participant in the tiger show.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari is one of the finest ways to explore Bandhavgarh that can be undertaken in the morning around 10 am or in the evening around 4 pm. The chances are high to spot wild animals during both times, and climatic conditions are also favorable. The forest department guide must accompany you throughout your jeep safari in Bandhavgarh. The best thing about a jeep safari is that you can explore those deep areas of the jungle, which are otherwise not accessible by any other vehicle.
Canter Safari
In this, you can explore the wilderness in an open bus that can accommodate 12 tourists at a single time. You can only enjoy safari from Magadhi and Khitauli Zones. Canter safari in Bandhavgarh is a ray of hope for those tourists who are unable to fix their spot in advance for jeep safari due to any reason.
Elephant Safari
Elephant safari in Bandhavgarh, also called Elephant Joy ride, will take you on a pre-decided route. This safari is only available from the Tala Zone, one of the famous safari zones in Bandhavgarh. You can explore the jungle closely by visiting those areas where vehicles are not accessible. The chances of tiger sighting are higher while enjoying the elephant back ride. Moreover, you can follow the footmarks of tigers while safely sitting on the back of the elephants. Do not forget that you will require permission from the forest department of Bandhavgarh.
Timings for Wildlife Safari in Bandhavgarh
Shift | Morning Shift | Afternoon Shift |
15th Oct to 15th Feb | 06:30 am – 11:00 am | 14:30 pm – 17:30 pm |
16th Feb to 31st Mar | 06:00 am – 11:00 am | 15:00 pm – 18:00 pm |
1st Apr to 30th June | 05:30 am – 10:00 am | 16:00 pm – 19:00 pm |
Note:
- The Evening Safari Shift remains on every Wednesday and Holi.
- Essential documents to carry for Jungle Safari in Bandhavgarh National Park: Original ID proof like PAN Card, Voter ID Card, Driving License etc.