Discover the Forests of Tiger Country
BANDHAVGARH SAFARI GUIDE
Your complete guide to experiencing the majestic wildlife of Bandhavgarh.
Discover the Forests of Tiger Country
Explore Bandhavgarh’s sal forests, meadows and wooded hills, where every turn offers something to observe. Watch for Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, sambar and spotted deer, while listening for the calls that reveal life beyond the trees.
A safari here is an opportunity to appreciate an entire habitat—from a langur’s alarm call to a bird moving through the canopy. Wildlife sightings depend on natural animal movement and cannot be guaranteed.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Cooler weather and comfortable forest drives
The cooler months are well suited to exploring Bandhavgarh. Early morning drives can be cold, particularly in December and January, so dress in layers. Allow time to enjoy the forest scenery, birdlife and smaller wildlife alongside the search for tigers.
Warmer days and summer wildlife watching
Temperatures rise as summer progresses, with April to June bringing particularly hot conditions. Carry sufficient drinking water, wear breathable clothing and prepare for exposure to sun and dust in an open vehicle.
Monsoon conditions and restricted access
Core safari tourism closes during the monsoon. Any buffer safari availability must be checked separately on the official booking portal and remains subject to weather, road conditions and park decisions.
Plan core safaris during the October–June tourism season. Check the booking calendar for the exact opening date and available sessions rather than assuming every date is operational. The reserve recommends advance planning and identifies October–March as the more comfortable period.
Where To book
Your safari
Advance booking for the 120th day opens daily at 11:00 AM. Enter visitor details carefully and check availability before confirming accommodation and travel.
Online booking
Book permits through the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department’s MPOnline portal. Select Bandhavgarh, your date, zone, session and permit type.
Book 45-120 days in advance
Visit MP onlineLast-Minute Online Availability
Premium Tatkal: Opens seven days before the safari at 11:00 AM. Single-seat and canter permits: Booking opens one day before the safari at 2:00 PM, where available.
+91 79697 92083
Call safari DeskTourist Counter Enquiries
The reserve also lists limited walk-in safari bookings through its tourist counter. These are subject to availability and should not be relied upon for a preferred zone or session.
Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your confirmed permit. Check the zone, date, session and visitor details before travelling.
Distance & Travel Time
Sterling Kanha is strategically located for easy access to Kanha
STERLING BANDHAVGARGH
Your starting point
TALA GATE
Main Entry Point
Bandhavgarh Safari Timings
Safari entry and exit timings change according to the season and are determined by the Forest Department.
Safari schedules vary by season.
Morning Entry
Safari timings are subject to change. Always verify the latest schedule with the official Forest Department/MPOnline portal before your safari.
Bandhavgarh Safari Timings
Safari entry and exit timings change according to the season and are determined by the Forest Department.
Safari schedules vary by season.
Evening Entry
Safari timings are subject to change. Always verify the latest schedule with the official Forest Department/MPOnline portal before your safari.
Curated Safari Transport
Resort Vehicle
Included with safari package
Private Taxi
Rates vary based on distance, season & availability
Safari Gypsy
Included in safari fare
What to wear
Dress smart for the wild - Comfort meets camouflage
Cotton Shirt
T-Shirts
Wild Brimmed Hat or Cap
UV Protection Sun Glass
Comfortable closed toe shoes
LightScarf for Dustprotection
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable full-length trousers
- A hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes
- A light scarf for sun and dust protection
- Heavy, thick or non-breathable fabrics
- Tight or restrictive clothing
- Bright or neon-coloured outfits
- Flip-flops, high heels or slippery footwear
Winter Jacket
Scarf
Winter Gloves
Wool Beanie
Trousers
Shoes
- Layered clothing
- A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings
- Comfortable trousers
- Closed shoes
- A cap or scarf for cooler mornings
- Thin clothing without warm layers
- Shorts or sleeveless outfits without adequate layering
- Open-toed footwear
- Strong perfumes
Safari
Do's & Don'ts
The forest is the animals' home. The best safari experience is one that lets them remain undisturbed.
DO'S
- Follow your naturalist or forest guide's instructions.
- Remain seated inside the safari vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Keep your voice low and avoid unnecessary noise.
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
- Keep your camera and binoculars ready.
- Carry sufficient drinking water.
- Respect the forest and leave no waste behind.
- Be patient. Wildlife sightings cannot be predicted.
DON'TS
- Feed or attempt to attract wildlife.
- Make loud noises or play music.
- Litter or leave food behind.
- Use flash photography around wildlife.
- Stand up or lean out of the safari vehicle.
- Attempt to approach, chase or provoke an animal.
- Smoke where prohibited.
- Expect a tiger sighting to be guaranteed.
Essential Information
Everything you need to know before your safari adventure
Documents Required
-
Valid government-issued photo ID(Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) -
Printed or digital copyOf safari booking confirmation -
Payment receiptsFor entry fees -
Foreign nationals:Valid passport with visa
Age Restrictions
-
Children below 5 years:Free entry (not recommended for very young children) -
Children 5–12 years:Discounted rates applicable -
No upper age limitbut ensure physical fitness for the safari duration -
Infantsmust be accompanied and held by adults at all times
Health & Safety Guidelines
-
Carry personal medicationsIf you have any health conditions -
Apply sunscreen and insect repellentBefore the safari -
Stay hydratedCarry at least 1–2 liters of water -
Inform your guideAbout any allergies or medical conditions -
Basic first aidAvailable at park gates; nearest hospital in Mandla (60 km)
What to Carry
Essentials
Binoculars
Camera with zoom lens
Sunglasses and hat
Water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Optional
Wildlife field guide book
Notebook and pen
Light snacks (no plastic)
Power bank for devices
Motion sickness medication
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
30+ days before:
Full refund minus processing fee
15–30 days before:
50% refund
Less than 15 days:
No refund
Rescheduling subject to availability;
₹200 modification fee applies
Safari cancelled due to weather:
Full refund or reschedule at no cost
Got questions? We've got answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Start planning as soon as your travel dates are clear. Check permit availability before building your itinerary around a particular zone.
There is no single best zone for guaranteed sightings. Choose according to availability, your travel arrangements and the kind of forest experience you would like.
The published distance is approximately 2.5 km. Allow additional time for reporting and entry checks.
Your booking is for the zone and session shown on the permit. Do not assume it allows movement between different tourism zones.
Yes. Under the current published timetable, morning sessions are longer than afternoon sessions. Check the seasonal schedule above when planning your day.
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