Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary famous for its Bengal tigers and rich biodiversity. Mumbai, the bustling financial capital of India, serves as a major starting point for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers eager to explore this tiger reserve.

This route is popular among weekend travelers and wildlife lovers seeking a thrilling safari experience. In this guide, you will find detailed information on the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh National Park, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical tips to plan your journey efficiently.

Getting from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh National Park – Main Options

By Train

Traveling by train from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh is a practical option for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy scenic routes. While there is no direct train to the park itself, nearby stations serve as gateways.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest stations to Bandhavgarh National Park are Umaria (UMR) and Katni (KTE), approximately 35-50 km away. Both stations are well connected to Mumbai via several trains.

• Train options and duration:

  Trains like the Mumbai-Howrah Mail and other long-distance expresses connect Mumbai to Katni and Umaria in roughly 18-24 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 500 for sleeper class to INR 2,000 for AC classes.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains run daily, but booking in advance through IRCTC is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons. AC coaches provide a comfortable journey, while sleeper class is economical but less comfortable for long trips.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Umaria or Katni stations, taxis and shared jeeps are available to reach Bandhavgarh National Park. The road journey takes about 1-1.5 hours on NH39 and SH5, with some stretches through forested areas.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains are preferable to maximize daytime hours at the park. Carry snacks and water, as station amenities can be limited. Booking tickets early on IRCTC helps avoid last-minute hassles.

By Bus

Bus travel from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh is less common due to the long distance but possible for adventurous travelers. It involves multiple changes and is best suited for those on a tight budget.

• Route and operators:

  There are no direct buses to Bandhavgarh. Travelers typically take MSRTC or private buses from Mumbai to Jabalpur or Umaria, then local transport to the park.

• Duration and cost:

  The bus journey to Jabalpur can take 20-24 hours, costing between INR 800-1,200 depending on the bus type. From Jabalpur, local buses or taxis cover the remaining 160 km to Bandhavgarh.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo or deluxe buses offer more comfort but are limited. Ordinary buses are frequent but crowded and less comfortable for such a long journey.

• Travel challenges:

  Multiple transfers and long travel times can be tiring. Night travel is possible but less safe on some routes. Booking tickets via MSRTC or private operators’ websites is recommended.

• Local connectivity:

  After reaching Jabalpur or Umaria, hiring a taxi or jeep is the best way to reach Bandhavgarh, as bus services to the park are infrequent.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes at your own pace. The distance is about 1,200 km and takes roughly 20-22 hours of driving.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 to Indore, then NH52 and NH39 through Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh. This route passes through well-maintained highways and several towns for rest stops.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect 20-22 hours of driving, usually split over two days. Numerous toll plazas on NH48 and NH39 require cash or FASTag payments.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  Highways are generally in good condition with multiple fuel stations, restaurants, and dhabas. Popular stops include Indore and Jabalpur for overnight stays and meals.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving through forested areas near Bandhavgarh due to wildlife crossings. Plan your trip during daylight and check weather conditions, especially during monsoon.

• Vehicle choice and permits:

  A comfortable sedan or SUV is recommended for the long drive and rougher roads near the park. No special permits are needed for the drive, but park entry requires advance booking.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Bandhavgarh from Mumbai, with the nearest airport being Jabalpur Airport. From there, road travel is required to reach the park.

• Flight options:

  Direct flights from Mumbai to Jabalpur are limited but available via airlines like IndiGo and Air India. Flight duration is approximately 2 hours.

• Airport to park connectivity:

  Jabalpur Airport is about 160 km from Bandhavgarh. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for a 3-4 hour drive along NH39.

• Cost and booking:

  Flight tickets range from INR 3,000 to INR 6,000 one way, depending on the season and booking time. Early booking on airline websites or apps ensures better fares.

• Travel tips:

  Flights are ideal for those with limited time. Combine air travel with a pre-booked taxi or jeep for hassle-free last-mile connectivity.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may vary during monsoon or off-peak seasons, so confirm timings before planning.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, flight, or bus, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC, airline websites, or MSRTC portals to avoid last-minute unavailability.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Umaria or Jabalpur by early morning or afternoon to have ample time for the onward journey to the park and check-in at your lodge.

• Arrange local transport:

  Pre-book a taxi or jeep from Umaria or Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh to avoid waiting and negotiate fares in advance for a hassle-free ride.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry water, snacks, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing suitable for safari and forest conditions. Also, keep your ID and park permits handy.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before departure, verify weather forecasts and road status, especially during monsoon, to avoid delays or detours.

• Stay connected:

  Keep a local SIM card or roaming active for navigation and emergency calls, as network coverage can be patchy near the park.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and ticket booking:

  Use the official IRCTC website or app for train bookings and check train running status regularly to avoid surprises.

• Food and water safety:

  Carry bottled water and avoid street food during transit. Opt for hygienic restaurants at major stops like Indore or Jabalpur.

• Local commute apps:

  In cities like Jabalpur, Ola and Uber operate, but their availability near Bandhavgarh is limited. Pre-book taxis through your hotel or local operators.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light but include essentials like binoculars, camera gear, and first-aid. Avoid heavy luggage as local transport may have limited space.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid night travel through forest roads due to wildlife. Always follow park guidelines during safaris and listen to guides.

• Seasonal booking:

  Peak season (October to June) requires advance booking of accommodations and safaris to secure spots and avoid disappointment.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bandhavgarh National Park is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoon months (July to September) bring heavy rains, making roads slippery and some park zones inaccessible.

Travelers should plan their journey to avoid heavy traffic and peak holiday weekends for a smoother experience.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Holi when trains and flights are crowded.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic in Mumbai and ensure timely arrival at the park.

• Monsoon travel is not recommended due to road conditions and limited safari availability.

• Winter mornings can be foggy; plan safaris accordingly and carry warm clothing.

Arrival at Bandhavgarh National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bandhavgarh, visitors are greeted by lush forests and the chance to spot majestic tigers and other wildlife. The park has several entry gates, with Tala and Magadhi being the most popular.

Local transport options include pre-arranged jeeps and safari vehicles provided by resorts or the park authorities. Nearby towns like Umaria and Tala offer accommodations ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts.

Visitors can expect guided safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching. It is advisable to book safaris in advance through the park’s official website or your hotel to secure preferred timings.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying to Jabalpur followed by a taxi to Bandhavgarh is the most time-efficient way to reach the park from Mumbai. For budget travelers, the train to Umaria or Katni combined with local transport offers a comfortable and economical alternative.

With proper planning and advance bookings, your journey from Mumbai to Bandhavgarh National Park can be smooth and enjoyable. Embrace the adventure and get ready to experience one of India’s premier wildlife destinations with confidence.