Echoes of the jungle: safari in the Bandhavgarh reserve

Échos de la Jungle : Safari dans la Réserve de Bandhavgarh

New Delhi – Jabalpur – Bandhavgarh (Vol + 200 km / 4 heures de route)

Dive into the heart of wild India with this exclusive 5-day tour dedicated to Bandhavgarh National Park, one of the most iconic gems of Madhya Pradesh. Renowned for having one of the highest tiger densities in the country, this natural sanctuary offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable safari experience. Between lush forests, open meadows, rocky hills, and historical remains, Bandhavgarh reveals exceptional biodiversity as well as a fascinating cultural heritage. This program has been carefully designed for nature and wildlife lovers, combining thrilling jeep safaris, moments of relaxation in a comfortable lodge, and immersion in the region’s ancient history with the discovery of the mysterious Bandhavgarh fort. The balanced pace of the trip will allow you to fully appreciate the landscapes and wildlife encounters in a serene environment. An ideal getaway to experience the authentic soul of wild India.

Trip Description

- In case of unavailability of the planned hotel or the standard room category (on waiting list or fully booked), alternative hotels or categories will be proposed, and we will inform you of any possible supplement or reduction. - Please note that the check-in and check-out time at hotels is set at 12:00 pm. - Safaris in Bandhavgarh will be organized in 4x4 jeeps. - The allocation of safari zones is subject to the authorization of the forest authorities. - Bandhavgarh National Park is closed for jeep safaris on Wednesday afternoons. Note: The travel times indicated above between the different cities are based on normal road conditions and may vary. Any stop for meals, tea, toilets, or visits en route will result in additional time compared to the mentioned schedules.

Accomodation

Charming hotels.

Stay program

day 1
New Delhi – Jabalpur – Bandhavgarh (flight + 200 km / 4 hours by road)
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at your hotel in New Delhi. After a brief meeting with your representative, you will be transferred to the airport to take your flight to Jabalpur. The flight departs at 10:10 am and lands in Jabalpur at 12:00 pm. Upon arrival, your driver will greet you and take you on a scenic 200 km drive (about 4 hours) to Bandhavgarh National Park. Upon arrival, check in at the lodge and enjoy some free time to relax. After a delicious lunch, set out for your first jeep safari in the park. Explore the wilderness and keep an eye out for the exceptional wildlife that inhabits the varied ecosystems of Bandhavgarh. At the end of the day, return to the lodge for dinner and rest in a peaceful setting. Overnight at the lodge. Note: Flight times will be confirmed at the time of booking.
day 2
At Bandhavgarh
Start the day with tea or coffee, followed by a takeaway breakfast, then set off for a morning jeep safari in the park. Bandhavgarh is famous for its tiger density, making it one of the best places in India to observe these majestic predators. The park is also home to leopards, Indian bisons (gaur), nilgai antelopes (blue bulls), sloth bears, jackals, wild dogs, as well as various species of deer: sambar, chitals (axis deer), and chausinghas (four-horned antelopes). More than 250 species of birds can also be observed here, from raptors to jungle birds, as well as a variety of reptiles: cobras, kraits, pythons, monitor lizards. Monkeys, such as rhesus macaques and Hanuman langurs, are also common. Return to the lodge for lunch, then depart for a second jeep safari in the afternoon. At the end of this day full of sightings, dinner at the lodge. Overnight at the lodge.
day 3
At Bandhavgarh
Start your morning in a relaxed way with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a morning safari to further explore the park's wildlife. In addition to its natural wonders, Bandhavgarh has a fascinating history dating back more than 2,000 years. Mentioned in ancient texts such as the Narad-Panch Ratra and the Shiva Purana, the site has significant cultural importance. The Bandhavgarh fort, located in the heart of the park, is a remarkable historical site. The surrounding sandstone hills contain caves carved with Brahmi inscriptions dating from the 1st century BCE. Several dynasties ruled here, including the Maghas, the Vakatakas, and the Chandela kings. The fort later became a royal hunting reserve, which helped preserve the local flora and fauna. At India's independence, the Maharaja of Rewa kept Bandhavgarh as private property before offering it to the state in 1968 to make it a national park. Thanks to rigorous conservation efforts, poaching was reduced and the tiger population thrived. The park was expanded in 1986 to accommodate this growing wildlife. Return to the lodge for lunch, followed by an afternoon jeep safari. Dinner and relaxation at the lodge. Overnight at the lodge.
day 4
At Bandhavgarh
Another day of immersion in nature with two jeep safaris – morning and afternoon – through the varied landscapes of Bandhavgarh: dense forests, bamboo groves, open meadows, and rocky formations. Between safaris, enjoy moments of rest at the lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in a comfortable setting. These excursions allow you to deepen your understanding of the park's biodiversity and observe wildlife in different habitats. Overnight at the lodge.
day 5
Bandhavgarh – Jabalpur – New Delhi (200 km / 4 hours by road + flight)
For your last day in Bandhavgarh, enjoy one last jeep safari at sunrise. After the safari, return to the lodge for breakfast, then check out. Departure by private vehicle to Jabalpur airport (about 4 hours by road). Flight to New Delhi at 16:30, scheduled arrival at 18:40. Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel or the international airport depending on the rest of your journey. Note: Flight times will be confirmed at the time of booking.