Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve extends to 1,161.4 sq. km. including Bandhavgarh National Park (448.8 sq. km.), Panpatha Wildlife Sanctuary (245.8 sq. km.) and a buffer zone (466.7 sq. km.). Tourist entry though is restricted to 105 sq. km. which holds one of the highest densities of Tigers in India today, making sightings fairly frequent. The park has 5 ranges, Magdhi, Kallwah, Khitauli, Panpatha and Tala.
The park is situated 197 km NE of Jabalpur in the lap of the Vindhya Range of Madhya Pradesh. It was the former hunting reserve of the Maharaja of Rewa, where the majestic White Tigers once roamed. Since, it has become home to Sita and her many generations of cubs, Charger and B2, some of the Tigers who have made Bandhavgarh legendary. Bandhavgarh National Park is open from 16th October to 30th June, but February to June in particular offers the best sightings.Sal trees cover much of the forest and the jungle supports a rich bio-diversity of mammals, birds, butterflies and reptiles. Besides the great Tiger one can more than often spot the Sloth Bear, Sambar, Nilgai, Chausingha, Chital, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Jackal, Civet Cat, Jungle Cat, Storks, Eagles and if lucky leopards too! The birdlife of Bandhavgarh is a feast for the eyes and it’s famous for its Vultures that live and nestle on the cliffs of its Fort.