Tiger Trails: An Adventure in Bandhavgarh & Kanha
Complete Journey Overview
Tiger Trails: An Adventure in Bandhavgarh & Kanha
Day 1: Arrival & Journey to the Land of Tigers
Arrive at Jabalpur (JLR)
Arrive at Jabalpur's Dumna Airport (JLR) or the main railway station (JBP). This is the most convenient gateway to both Bandhavgarh and Kanha.
Private Transfer to Bandhavgarh National Park
Your pre-booked private car will meet you upon arrival for the drive to Bandhavgarh. The journey takes you through rural Madhya Pradesh, offering glimpses of local life.
Check-in at Jungle Lodge
Arrive at your jungle lodge located near the park gate. Settle in, have a refreshing welcome drink, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Evening Nature Walk & Birdwatching
After relaxing, join the resident naturalist for a guided nature walk around the lodge's buffer zone. It's a great opportunity to learn about the local flora, fauna, and spot various bird species.
Dinner at the Lodge
Enjoy a hearty dinner, often a mix of Indian and continental cuisines, made with fresh, local ingredients. Share stories with other guests and listen to the sounds of the jungle at night.
Day 2: On the Prowl in Bandhavgarh
Early Morning Jeep Safari
Wake up before dawn for your first safari. Bandhavgarh has one of the highest tiger densities in India. Explore the famed Tala zone, known for its hilly terrain and frequent sightings. Besides tigers, look for leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and over 250 species of birds.
Post-Safari Breakfast
Return to the lodge around 10:30 AM for a well-deserved, hot breakfast. Relax, recharge, and share photos from your morning adventure.
Lunch and Leisure
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the lodge. You can spend the afternoon reading a book, taking a dip in the pool (if weather permits), or simply relaxing.
Afternoon Jeep Safari
Head out for your second safari. Explore a different zone like Magadhi or Khitauli, which offer different landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. The golden hour light is perfect for photography.
Dinner and Wildlife Presentation
After returning from the safari, gather for dinner. Many lodges host a wildlife documentary screening or a presentation by their naturalist, offering deeper insights into the park's ecosystem.
Day 3: From Bandhavgarh to Kanha's Meadows
Road Trip to Kanha National Park
After an early breakfast, check out and begin the scenic drive to Kanha National Park. The route passes through villages, forests, and farmlands, showcasing the heart of central India.
Check-in and Lunch at Kanha
Arrive at your lodge near Kanha's gate (Mukki or Khatia). Check in quickly and have lunch before heading out for your afternoon safari.
Afternoon Safari in Kanha
Experience the vast meadows and dense Sal forests of Kanha, the inspiration for Kipling's 'The Jungle Book'. Kanha is famous not only for tigers but also for the rare Barasingha (swamp deer), which was saved from extinction here.
Dinner and Tribal Culture
Enjoy dinner at the lodge. Some lodges in Kanha arrange for a presentation or a brief performance by the local Baiga tribe, offering a glimpse into their unique culture and deep connection with the forest.
Day 4: Kanha's Farewell & Departure
Final Morning Safari in Kanha
Embark on your last safari of the trip. The crisp morning air and the rising sun over the meadows create a magical atmosphere. This is your final opportunity to spot the majestic tiger or the elusive leopard.
Breakfast and Check-out
Return from the safari for a final breakfast at the lodge. Pack your bags and complete the check-out formalities.
Transfer to Jabalpur for Departure
Your driver will be ready to take you back to Jabalpur Airport or Railway Station for your journey home, filled with memories of the central Indian jungles.
Lunch En Route
Stop for a simple lunch at a roadside 'dhaba' or a restaurant in a town along the way to experience authentic local food before reaching Jabalpur.
Q.What is the best time to visit Bandhavgarh and Kanha?
The best time is from October to June. October to March offers pleasant weather, with January being quite cold on mornin...
Q.How do I book wildlife safaris?
Safaris must be booked online through the official Madhya Pradesh Forest Department website (forest.mponline.gov.in). Bo...
Q.How to reach Bandhavgarh and Kanha?
The nearest major airport and railway station is in Jabalpur (JLR/JBP). From Jabalpur, Bandhavgarh is a 4-hour drive (ap...
Q.What should I pack for a January trip?
Pack multiple warm layers: thermal wear, fleece jackets, a windproof outer jacket, woolen caps, gloves, and a scarf for ...
Q.Are there any local customs to be aware of?
Respect the wildlife and the environment. Maintain silence during safaris and do not get out of the vehicle. Do not feed...
Q.What are the backup options for weather-dependent activities?
Jungle safaris are rarely cancelled due to weather. However, if a safari is not possible, alternative activities include...
Q.What kind of food can I expect?
Most jungle lodges serve a mix of Indian, Continental, and local cuisine. You can expect well-prepared, buffet-style mea...
Q.Is this itinerary very fast-paced?
Yes, this itinerary is designed to give you a taste of both premier parks in a short duration. It involves significant t...
