Bandhavgarh national park is one of the most popular national parks located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. It boasts of having highest density of wild tigers in the entire world- not many people return disappointed from a trip to the park. The park derives its name from the most prominent hillock in the area, which is said to have been given by Lord Rama to his brother Laxmana to keep a watch on Lanka; hence the name Bandhavgarh (Sanskrit: Brother's fort). Bandhavgarh has a very high density of Tigers within the folds of its marvelous jungles. Probably the highest in the world ! There is a saying about this park that goes - " In any other Park, you are lucky if you see a Tiger. In Bandhavgarh, you are unlucky if you don't see (at least) one.".
Prior to becoming a National Park, the forests around Bandhavgarh had long been maintained as a Shikargarh, or game preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa. Bandhavgarh was declared a national park in 1968 with an area of 105 km². With over 35 kinds of mammals, 250 species of birds, 111 species of butterflies, 16 kinds of snakes, 500 kinds of plants and many more trees and shrubs it undoubtedly has a very rich flora and fauna. The magic of Bandhavgarh enchants any visitor in almost a religious way- take a drive through the Sal forest and judge for yourself.
PARK LANDSCAPE
The undulated hilly regions, mesmerizing natural beauty and pristine environment make this place a much sought tourist attraction in Madhya Pradesh. Son River and Johilla River flow on the eastern side of Bandhavgarh and Umrar River flows through the western regions - along with these at least 20 streams stream rise or flow through the park, blessing the park with natural dense green vegetation. The green never ceases to soothe the soul even without the drama in it. The highest hill Bandhavgarh rising up to 810 mts and is surrounded by at least 30 other smaller hills forming a large number of valleys with low lying areas. With such diverse topographical features the park is held in high regards not only for wild life but also for its landscape.
