Bandhavgarh, located in Madhya Pradesh, is famed for its dense forests and rich tiger population, making it a top wildlife destination in India. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan hub in eastern India. This route is popular among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts planning a safari adventure in Bandhavgarh National Park.

This guide covers all practical travel options from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh, including train, bus, car, and flight routes. You will find detailed information on timings, costs, and tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred option for many due to its affordability and the experience of Indian Railways. However, there is no direct train to Bandhavgarh, so a combination of train and road travel is necessary.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest major railway stations to Bandhavgarh are Umaria and Katni, both well connected to Kolkata via multiple trains. The distance from these stations to Bandhavgarh is around 35-50 km by road.

• Train options and duration:

  Trains like the Howrah–Jabalpur Express and Howrah–Katni Passenger connect Kolkata to these stations. The journey typically takes 18-22 hours depending on the train and route.

• Ticket booking:

  Book tickets in advance on IRCTC or through authorized agents, especially during peak safari season (October to June). Sleeper and AC classes are available for comfort.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Umaria or Katni, taxis and shared jeeps are available to Bandhavgarh. Pre-booking a cab is advisable to avoid waiting times and ensure a smooth transfer.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can get crowded during holidays and festivals like Durga Puja. Booking early and choosing mid-week departures can help avoid rush.

Bus

Bus travel from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh is less common due to the long distance and multiple state borders. However, it is possible with a combination of buses and taxis.

• Bus routes:

  Direct buses to Bandhavgarh are rare. Travelers usually take a bus from Kolkata to Jabalpur or Umaria, then switch to local transport for the last leg.

• Duration and cost:

  Bus travel can take over 24 hours with fares ranging from ₹800 to ₹1500 depending on the bus type and operator.

• Bus types:

  State-run buses like MSRTC and private Volvo or sleeper buses operate on Kolkata-Jabalpur routes, offering varying comfort levels.

• Booking and stops:

  Tickets can be booked online on state transport portals or at bus terminals. Expect multiple stops and transfers, so plan for overnight journeys.

• Challenges:

  Long bus journeys can be tiring and less reliable due to traffic and road conditions, especially during monsoon.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The route covers approximately 1100 km and takes around 20-22 hours by car.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH19 and NH30, passing through Asansol, Dhanbad, and Jabalpur. The roads are mostly national highways with tolls en route.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  The highways are generally in good condition with several dhabas and restaurants like Sagar Ratna and local eateries along the way. Plan stops at Asansol and Dhanbad for refreshments.

• Travel tips:

  Start early to avoid city traffic in Kolkata and Jabalpur. Avoid night driving in forest areas near Bandhavgarh for safety reasons.

• Fuel and tolls:

  Fuel stations are frequent on the highways. Carry cash for tolls as some plazas may not accept digital payments.

• Permits:

  No special permits are required for Bandhavgarh National Park entry by car, but check for any updates during peak seasons.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach near Bandhavgarh from Kolkata, with the nearest airport being Jabalpur. From there, road transport is needed to reach the park.

• Flight options:

  Direct flights from Kolkata to Jabalpur are limited but available via airlines like IndiGo and Air India, usually with a stopover in Delhi or Mumbai.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Total flying time including layovers is around 4-6 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3500 to ₹7000 depending on booking time and season.

• Airport to Bandhavgarh:

  Jabalpur Airport is about 160 km from Bandhavgarh. Hiring a taxi or booking a private transfer from the airport is recommended for convenience.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights well in advance during peak safari months. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip for best deals.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights can be affected by fog in winter mornings; choose afternoon flights to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights, especially if traveling during October to June to secure seats and better prices.

• Prepare for last-mile transfer:

  Arrange a taxi or jeep from Umaria, Katni, or Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh in advance to avoid delays on arrival.

• Pack essentials for the jungle:

  Carry light clothing, insect repellent, and binoculars for safari. Also, keep water and snacks handy for long travel stretches.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah station or Kolkata airport at least 1.5 hours before departure to navigate security and boarding smoothly.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Bandhavgarh by afternoon to check into your lodge and prepare for evening safari activities.

• Use local transport apps:

  For intra-city travel in Kolkata or Jabalpur, use Ola or Uber for safe and convenient rides.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on trains:

  Keep your belongings secure and avoid traveling in unreserved coaches for long distances. Prefer AC coaches for comfort and safety.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially during train or road travel. Avoid street food en route to prevent stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC’s Tatkal service if booking last minute, but book at least 2 weeks ahead during peak season for guaranteed seats.

• Local commute in Bandhavgarh:

  Most lodges provide safari vehicles. For other travel, prepaid taxis or local jeeps can be hired; negotiate fares beforehand.

• Luggage tips:

  Pack light and use sturdy bags. Avoid bringing valuables on safari and keep copies of important documents.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon months (July–September) can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions. Plan accordingly and check weather updates.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Bandhavgarh is during the dry season when wildlife sightings are frequent and roads are accessible. Weather and traffic conditions vary throughout the year.

Avoid traveling during major festivals in Kolkata like Durga Puja or Diwali due to heavy city traffic and inflated travel costs.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Kolkata (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce city travel time to stations or airports.

• Winter mornings in Jabalpur can be foggy, causing flight delays; afternoon flights are preferable.

• Monsoon season may cause slippery roads near Bandhavgarh; avoid night drives and check local weather reports.

• Plan departures on weekdays to avoid weekend rush on trains and highways.

Arrival at Bandhavgarh & What to Expect

Upon arriving near Bandhavgarh, travelers typically reach either Umaria or Katni railway stations or Jabalpur airport. From here, the journey continues by road through scenic forested routes.

Bandhavgarh offers a range of accommodation from forest lodges to luxury resorts. Local transport options include pre-arranged safari jeeps and taxis. The park entrance is well managed, and guides are available to enhance your wildlife experience.

Nearby attractions include the Bandhavgarh Fort and Tala Zone, known for high tiger density. Staying in Tala or Magadhi zones is recommended for first-time visitors due to better safari opportunities.

Use prepaid taxis or lodge-arranged pickups to avoid haggling and ensure timely transfers, especially if arriving late in the day.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Bandhavgarh from Kolkata is by taking a train to Umaria or Katni followed by a taxi transfer. This option balances cost, comfort, and convenience, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.

Alternatively, flying to Jabalpur and then driving to Bandhavgarh is fastest but costlier. Regardless of your choice, planning ahead and booking transfers in advance will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently embark on your Bandhavgarh adventure from Kolkata.