This guide is for those who are visiting Bandhavgarh for the first time and already know basics like how to book Bandhavgarh tiger safari, safari timings, flora and fauna, and so on. This guide will help those who want to know what to expect and how to prepare for tiger safari Bandhavgarh for the first time.
Best time to visit and zones
Before going further, you should know the best time to book tiger tours Bandhavgarh. As it is your first time, it is recommended to plan your safari between November and April for pleasant weather and frequent animal sightings. You can also spot tigers from April to June during hot summers. There are various safari zones like Magadhi, Tala, and Khitauli but Tala is the most popular safari zone for tiger sightings and scenic landscape.
Booking safari
There are limited number of permits in each zone. So, bear in mind that only jeep safaris are allowed for small groups and more personal experience. Also, book your safari at least one month in advance, especially during peak winter months, i.e. December to March. It is recommended to book safari only through official MP Forest Department portal or a recognized travel agency. Select your time slot (morning/noon), preferred zone, and submit valid ID proof.
Tala zone is best choice for first-time visitors for its scenic routes and higher odds to find tigers. To avoid crowd, you may also consider Khitauli and Magadhi zones. For active wildlife and cool temperatures, morning safari is best choice. Booking both morning and afternoon safaris can increase your chance of spotting tigers and more animals.
Book early in advance
Safari slots don’t take much time to fill up, especially Tala zone. If you want to visit Bandhavgarh, be sure to confirm your jeep safari along with your train/flight tickets in advance. Also consider booking resort/hotel in advance to avoid any inconvenience or increased charges.
What to wear?
Yes, there is a dress code for jungle safari in Bandhavgarh. First, bright colours are the first thing you should avoid as they may disturb the wildlife and you might miss the chance of spotting tigers. Keep in mind that you are the outsider and forest is their home. So, you need to follow park guidelines. Wear light shades of clothes like brown, dark green, beige, or grey. Also wear light clothes during daytime.
Don’t ignore guides
It is always recommended to hire a guide who will help you spot tigers and other wild animals, who may be hidden at first sight. Listen to your guide or naturalists. Don’t stand up in the jeep, don’t make loud noises, and also don’t feed the wild animals. These acts can disturb the wildlife.
Essentials to carry
To increase your chance to spot animals far away, you may carry binoculars or a camera with at least 300mm telephoto lens to capture best shots. You can stabilize your shots with a monopod or beanbag. If you are visiting the park during day time, be sure to carry sunscreen and water. For winter mornings, also carry hats, gloves, and jackets. Also carry the same ID card for booking permit during the safari.
Don’t Litter
A national park is a place where birds and animals call their home and live freely without any boundaries. We have no right to pollute their homes. Don’t throw anything that can affect ecosystem of the place. National Park is a pollution-free zone and a haven for endangered species.
Don’t blame if no tiger is spotted during the trip
Last but not the least! Tigers are free creatures. Big cats roam around different zones. So, there is no guarantee that a tiger will be spotted once you go on a ride. You also don’t have to worry because you will definitely spot other wild animals on the safari.
