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Bandhavgarh
lies in the heart of Madhya Pradesh- traditional tiger
country. This is where Rudyard Kipling found inspiration
for his famous Jungle Book (remember Mowgli?), and
this is where the tiger still roams- although now
protected by dozens of laws, some effective, some
not.
Bandhavgarh
used to be the hunting reserve of the royal family of Rewa, though
its history goes back two millennia. In caves you can still see
paintings by the ancients. It is a retreat where history and
nature meet.
Covering
about 450 sq km, about half the park comprises sal forests, while
mixed forests are found in the higher reaches of the hills.
Stretches of bamboo and grasslands extend to the north. The main
viewing area is still in the core of the Park with its 32
picturesque, wooded hills. An ancient fort up on a precipice, 800
metres high, dominates the Park.
This
is where the famous white tigers of Rewa were discovered. Also to
be seen here are nilgai, chousingha, chital, chinkara, wild boar,
foxes, jackals, the jungle cat, ratel, hyena, porcupine, the
rhesus macaque and the black-faced langur. About 150 species of
birds are also found here and include the migratory birds that
arrive in winter like the steppe eagle and various water-birds.
Entry
Requirements
All visitors to
Bandhavgarh need a permit to enter the wildlife national
park; this can be obtained at the entrance to the park.
Entry fees for foreigners are Rs 200; for Indians and
members of SAARC countries, Rs 20. Additional charges are
levied for the entry of vehicles, for cameras and for
elephant rides.
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