BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK

One of India’s most important Tiger Reserves, the Bandhavgarh National Park sprawls across an area of 625 sq km (241 sq miles). Apart from some 50 tigers, the park’s wildlife includes 250 species of birds, leopards, deer, jungle cats and packs of dhole  (Indian wild dog). Great rocky hills, lush deciduous forests, marshes and meadows make Bandhavgarh one of India’s most scenic areas. A picturesque hilltop fort with fine sculptures is part of the park’s attractions.

  • Shahdol district. 237 km (147 miles) SE of Khajuraho.
  • Umaria, 33 km (21 miles) SW of Tala, the main entry point.

  • MP Tourism, White Tiger Lodge, Tala, Tel: (07653) 26 5308. 

  • Oct–Jun.

  • extra charges.

  • Jeep safaris available.



Indian tiger (Panthera tigris)



Hanuman langurs (Presbytis entellus) on branch

THE WHITE TIGER OF REWA

In 1951, the maharaja of Rewa captured a white tiger in these forests. Named Mohan, he was mated in captivity with several tigresses, and all the white tigers in zoos across the world today are Mohan’s descendants. A pair can be seen in the Bhopal zoo. Since 1951, no other white tiger has been seen in the Bandhavgarh region. The white tiger is an “evolutionary colour aberration” and not an albino, nor a separate sub-species.