Jun 15, 2006 12:50 PM
10133 Views
Only a little portion of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is open for tourist. The area accessable from Tala is less than 100sq.km. but boasts the highest tiger density in the world. In Bandhavgarh it is very disheartening not to get a glimpse of tiger. One should also try to visit other areas within this national park and there are also many other places to visit within accessable range from Tala.
The best time of visiting BTR is November to January and then April-May, though many might not like the idea of roaming under the sun in the high summer time. But the summer months give the best oppertunities to see a tiger specially near the water-holes. Where as in the cooler months one is able to see the tiger as well as the beauty of the forest. To visit BTR it is best to own or hire a petrol vehicle ( I believe a deisel vehicle is also allowed but it should be a new model or a make after 1999. One should check it with the park authorities.) Otherwise vehicles and guides are available in front of the entry gate.
One can find several places to stay. But I found it very adventourous to stay in the tent houses provided by the Forest Department. I have seen deers, antilopes roaming around the tent in the midest of night and imagine yourself standing in the moonlight.
Some words of caution - do not stroll on the road in night time without a source of light. And try to avoid visiting during the Kali puja as animals move deep inside the jungle due to sound of crackers.
