BANDHAVGARH

Bandhavgarh is one of four national parks in India whose names are synonymous with tigers. Home to a dense population of nearly 50 individuals spread across its 1,200km2, Bandhavgarh is one of the best reserves in the country for an encounter with Asia’s iconic big cat.

Bandhavgarh was the home of B2 – arguably the world’s most famous tiger – who resided here until 2011, when he died of injuries sustained following a clash with a younger male. Thousands of tourists are thought to have visited the park just to see and photograph him.

Bandhavgarh’s tigers – and other predators, which include leopards and the Indian wild dog (dhole) – are supported by large numbers of spotted deer (chital), nilgai (Asia’s largest antelope species), sambar and the diminutive muntjac.

Dominating the park is Bandhavgarh Fort, an extraordinary third-century ruin hidden among the dense woodland that crowns the imposing, 300m-high cliff walls of Bandhavgarh Hill (you need a permit to explore the site). Other must-sees include the striking lesser adjutant stork, which patrols the wetland edges hunting fish, frogs and small mammals; the grey-headed fishing eagle and the Malabar pied hornbill.