Tigers are considered among the most graceful, elegant and beautiful animals that roam our planet. For any wildlife enthusiast, seeing the animals in the wild on dedicated Tiger tours is truly an incredible experience. This elusive animal is found in habitats throughout India and Asia, although in recent years numbers have dwindled as their terrain has diminished. It is a constant battle between animal and human advancement for the precious land that is the big cat’s home. Deforestation, road development and increased agriculture are slowly confining them to an ever-dwindling area. Increasing interest and knowledge of the plight of these majestic animals and their place in the grander scheme of the world’s ecosystems is imperative if they are to have a chance of surviving.
There is a range of Tiger tours to choose from and most offer a very comprehensive package, with the main focus being on sightings of the elusive big cat. Local experts who are exceptionally well versed in the daily habits of the creature accompany the tours to help give clients the best chance of a sighting. It is advisable to choose Tiger tours that accommodate only a small group of clients so you are afforded a more personal experience. The naturalist guides have a wealth of information at their fingertips and are wonderful sources of information, not only on the star attraction but also on the many other amazing species that you will encounter.
Bandhavgarh National Park
Many companies offering Tiger tours work closely with local national parks and donate a certain amount of the cost of your holiday to helping promote the survival of these wonderful big cats.
Bandhavgarh is one of the finest wild animal reserves in India. Situated in Madhya Pradesh it is actually the smallest of the three reserves in the area. The reserve covers 105 square kilometres and the camps and lodges are all located around the edge of the reserve boundaries.
Bandhavgarh reserve is perfect Tiger habitat, with its forests of sal and bamboo interspersed with open marshlands and extensive areas of elephant grass. There is an extremely healthy big cat population here but the area teems with many other wonderful species too. On your game drives, which take place in the early morning and late afternoon, you can look out for Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, Sambar and Jackal, plus a huge variety of incredible bird life. Bandhavgarh also houses a beautiful fort that stands high on a hilltop offering some outstanding views of the park, its lake and the forests beyond.
Bandhavgarh is a very special location and one of several places in India where dedicated Tiger tours can be undertaken. Because it is moderate in size, this particular park offers a high concentration of wildlife and a very healthy Tiger population.