Bandhavgarh - Hammock Holidays

Bandhavgarh was declared a National Park in 1965, at the proposal of Maharaja Martand Singh of Rewa to stop the degradation of forests. A number of flat-topped sandstone hills and valleys dominate the area, along with some marshy meadows. There's more to Bandhavgarh than flora and fauna.. a rich history depicted in the fort and caves.

Climate
The climate here is Indian monsoon characterized by well defined summers, winters and rains. The best time to visit is between Nov-June, the park being closed from July-Oct during the rains.

Connectivity
Nearest Airport(s): Khajuraho Domestic - approximately 280 kms
Nearest Railway Station(s): Umaria - approximately 32 kms, Katni - approx. 95 kms
Nearest Bus Stop: Bandhavgarh

Water percolates through the sandstone hills of Bandhavgarh National Park, forming a number of perennial streams and springs. Lying in the heart of the Vindhya Mountain Range in Central India, Bandhavgarh National Park is small and compact, yet full of game. The density of the tiger population here is the highest known in India. White tigers too have been found in the old state of Rewa for many years.

There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds in the Park; the mammals include the Rhesus Macaque, Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Grey Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard, Tiger, Sambar, Chausingha, Nilgai, Chinkara and Gaur or Indian Bison and the bird species seen are the Little Grebe, Egret, Lesser Adjutant, Black Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, Common Peafowl, Red Jungle Fowl, Parakeet, King Fisher, Indian Roller, Sarus Crane, Black Kite and Crested Serpent Eagle. Reptilian Fauna include the cobra, krait, viper, rat snake, python, turtle and a number of lizard varieties including varanus.

The centre of the park is dominated by the majestic Bandhavgarh Fort, around which are numerous caves. One can see inscriptions on the cave walls in an ancient language Pali, which was spoken and written 2000 years ago. Kabir (the enlightened saint of the 16th century), Tansen (the famous poet), Akbar (the Mughal emperor) and Birbal (Akbar's minister) have all stayed here at some point in time. Mythologically the fort was built by Lord Rama for his brother Laxman, during Ramayan period.