Ride Through the Roar: A Biker’s Journey into the Heart of the Wild
It starts with a map and a dream. If you've ever ridden a bike on a long journey, you know there’s a special kind of peace that comes with it. There is a place in Madhya Pradesh that you can reach by bike. The place is Bandhavgarh National Park. It feels more like heading into a world that still lives by nature’s rules.
Jabalpur is a city that’s fairly easy to reach, and most bikers choose it as the starting point for this trip. The route from here to Bandhavgarh is about 170 kilometres — a ride that gives you a bit of everything. You’ll pass smooth highways, hit a few rough patches, and eventually find yourself surrounded by the forest.. You need to stay alert, especially after Katni, where the forest begins to whisper its welcome. The best part? You don’t need to rush. This route demands that you slow down and soak it all in.
Prepping for the Ride: What You Need
Before you twist that throttle, here’s a list of what you should carry:
Helmet and riding gear (obviously)
Puncture kit and spare tube
Power bank
Water bottles and dry snacks
Tool kit
Torch
The Route: A Blend of Countryside and Calls of the Wild
As you get closer to Bandhavgarh, the road begins to change. Trees start leaning in from both sides like nature’s own welcome gate. The sunlight breaks through in patches, making patterns on the tarmac. The air? It just feels different here — cooler, with a fresh green smell that city lungs aren’t used to. You know you’ve entered forest land, even before any signboard tells you so.
Where to Stay: Best Resorts in Bandhavgarh National Park
From a biker’s point of view, these are some of the resorts near Bandhavgarh that stood out:
Tigergarh Resort – Tucked just a few minutes from the Tala gate, this place is peaceful and welcoming. They even have a small parking space inside — great for bikers.
Bandhavgarh Jungle Lodge – If you’re someone who enjoys rustic charm mixed with good service, this is your spot. The open dining area makes every meal feel like a jungle picnic.
Aranyak Resort – A bit on the luxurious side, but after a rough ride, sometimes that’s just what you need. Plus, it’s close to key safari gates.
Wherever you stay, call ahead and confirm parking space and safety — you don’t want to leave your machine out in the open.
Safari Time: Bandhavgarh National Park Safari Booking Tips
Alright, now for the real reason we’re all here — the safari. If you plan to experience Bandhavgarh the way it’s meant to be, do your Bandhavgarh National Park safari booking in advance. The slots fill up fast, especially during peak season (October to June).
There are three main zones: Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli. Each offers something unique, but if you’re a first-timer, start with Tala. It’s the most scenic and has the highest chance of spotting a tiger.
Book through the official MP forest website or ask your resort to help.
Canter safaris are also available — ideal if you're travelling with a group or want a more budget-friendly option. But for a quieter, more personal experience, Recommendation is the gypsy (jeep) safari.
Riding Around the Park: Respect the Forest
The area around the park is beautiful — perfect for short morning or evening rides. But remember, you’re in a tiger reserve zone. Ride respectfully. No honking, no loud music.and stick to the roads. Don’t try shortcuts through village trails near the buffer zone — they’re not just illegal, they’re dangerous.
Many bikers don’t realise that Bandhavgarh isn’t just about the tiger. You’ll find birds you’ve never seen before, butterflies that follow your bike, and streams that shimmer under the morning sun. Take it all in. This place changes you.
The Ride Back: Slower, Heavier, Wiser
When you ride through Bandhavgarh, it’s not just your bike making noise. The engine hums, the forest has its sounds, and somewhere deep inside, you feel a shift. It’s like the ride wakes something up in you — something real and hard to put into words.
Planning Your Ride?
Start Point: Jabalpur or Umaria
Best Time to Visit: October to June
Important: Do Bandhavgarh National Park safari booking at least 2–3 weeks before your travel.
Preferable Route: Jabalpur – Katni – Umaria – Bandhavgarh (around 170 km)
Fuel Up: Katni is your best bet for the last major fuel station
In the end, riding to Bandhavgarh isn’t just a bike trip — it’s a memory you etch on two wheels. It's a story that unfolds between the throttle and the trees, one turn at a time.