Khajuraho Bandhavgarh Orchha Tour Tiger Trail and Temples

Khajuraho Orchha Package Deals

Option - 1: 6N / 7D Khajuraho Panna & Bandhavgarh from Delhi tour Package @ INR 30,500 per person. T&C apply

Package Inclusion: Accommodation + Transportation + Sightseeing + Breakfast + 3 Jungle safaris  

Option - 2: 6N / 7D Khajuraho Panna & Bandhavgarh from Mumbai tour Package @ INR 30,500 per person. T&C apply

Package Inclusion: Accommodation + Transportation + Sightseeing + Breakfast + 3 Jungle safaris   

Option - 3: 5N / 6D Khajuraho Panna Orchha Gwalior from Jabalpur tour Package @ INR 19,000 per person. T&C apply

Package Inclusion: Accommodation + Transportation + Sightseeing + Breakfast + 1 Jungle safari

Option -4: 7N / 8D Khajuraho Bandhavgarh Orchha Gwalior from Mumbai tour Package @ INR 35,700 per person. T&C apply  

Package Inclusion: Accommodation + Transportation + Sightseeing + Breakfast + 2 Jungle safaris

Option - 5: 8N / 9D Khajuraho Panna Bandhavgarh Orchha Gwalior from Delhi tour Package @ INR 36,500 per person. T&C apply

Package Inclusion: Accommodation + Transportation + Sightseeing + Breakfast + 3 Jungle safaris

Khajuraho Bandhavgarh Orchha Tour Tiger Trail and Temples: Overview

www.holidaytravel.co is introducing Indian Temples and Tigers Trail Tour Package. In this package we are providing you the Temples & Tigers Tour of Central India with India Capital city New Delhi. This tour offers a combination of visiting fine temples including Delhi, Khajuraho, a world heritage site & Orchha a heritage village. The tour continues to two popular Tiger parks - Panna & Bandhavgarh National Park and Bandhavgarh is known for one of the highest density of tigers in the world. We are offering this package in two options - From Delhi and from Mumbai. Tourist of North India can start their trip from Delhi and tourist of South and West India can start their trip from Mumbai.

We are offering this package in three different categories Standard, Deluxe & Luxury so that you can book the package according to your suitable category. Package is well designed and suited for Families with Kids, Honeymoon Couples and Holiday Makers.

Why you choose this Package?

You must choose this package as this is a best combination of Waterfall, National Parks, Temples and Heritage sites. Orchha is known for its elegant architecture and its unique sequential development of domes, brackets, pillars, arches and ledges, the famous landmark example like Jehangir Mahal, the Laxminarayan Temple. While Khajuraho is famous for its World Heritage sites and is enclosed within a beautifully laid out park.

In this package we are offering two beautiful Tiger reserves which are Panna and Bandhavgarh National Park. Panna National Park is known worldwide for its wild cats, including tigers as well as deer and antelope. On the other hand Bandhavgarh is one of highest density of tigers in the world, besides healthy population of Cheetal, Sambhar and Barking Deer.

What is Special in this Package?

• Fully Customized and Personalized tour program of 5 nights

• Madhya Pradesh Major Spectrum Covered:-

• Waterfall: Khajuraho

• River: Ken River in Panna, Betwa River Orchha

• Heritage sites: Khajuraho, Orchha

• Temples: Khajuraho, Orchha

• National Park: Panna & Bandhavgarh National Park

• Transportation in Private Car - Swift Dzire/Similar

• Private Jungle Safari with Best Eco friendly and English Speaking Guides

• 24X7 Phone Support of back Office

Khajuraho Bandhavgarh Orchha Tour Tiger Trail and Temples

FOR BEST DEAL CONTACT US :  +91  - 9418093019

Package inclusion

• Daily Breakfast & Dinner

• All Meals in National Park

• 2 Nights stay in Delhi

• 1 Night stay in Gwalior

• 1 Night stay in Orchha

• 1 Night stay in Khajuraho

• 1 Night stay in Panna

• 2 Nights stay in Bandhavgarh

• 1 Jungle Safari in Panna

• 2 Jungle safaris in Bandhavgarh

• Private vehicle for 9 days

• All sightseeing included in the package

• 8 nights’ accommodation in well furnished room

Package Exclusion

• Any airfare / train fare

• Any insurance

• Any personal expenses like laundry, STD calls etc

• Any claim or delay charges due to natural calamities such as land slide, road blockage, heavy rain etc

• Or any other things which are not mentioned inclusion column

•  All taxes

Hotels recommended

Khajuraho Hotels

Hotel Isabel Palace (3* Hotel) TA rating - 4.5 – certified in excellence 

Address: AIRPORT ROAD, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606

Hotel Clarks Khajuraho   (5* Hotel) TA rating - 4.0 – certified in excellence 

Address: Bameetha Road, Near Khajuraho Airport, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606

Hotel Surya Khajuraho (2* Hotel) TA rating - 4.0 – certified in excellence 

Address: Jain Temple Road, Dist Chhatarpur, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh 471606

Orchha Hotels

 Amar Mahal (4* Hotel) TA rating - 3.5 – certified in excellence 

Address: Orachha, Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh 472246

Hotel Fort View Orchha (3* hotel) TA rating - 3.0 – certified in excellence 

Address: Main road Orchha, tikamghar, Madhya Pradesh

Betwa Retreat-MPTDC (2* Hotel) TA rating - 4.0 – certified in excellence 

Address: Major District Road 30B, Jhansi, 472246

Orchha tourist places

Phool Bagh

Phool Bagh is situated within the vicinity of Gwalior Railway Station built by late Madho Rao Scindia, comprises a presidential palace and a museum along with other buildings. There is a Theosophical Lodge and a prayer place within the campus of Phool Bagh. The garden was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1922 on his visit to Gwalior. Gwalior zoo along with a temple, a mosque and a Gurudwara are situated in the garden.

Teli Ka Mandir

Teli-ka-Mandir or the Oilman’s Temple is situated within the Gwalior Fort. This temple also dates back to the 9th century and is the highest building in Gwalior. It is a 100 feet high temple, which has influence from both Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles. This temple is famous for its unique architecture as the temple holds a Dravidian look and referred to as the oldest temple of the fort, which portrays a combination of South Indian and North Indian architectural styles.

Orchha Fort

Also known as Jehangir Mahal, Built in 1598 by Bharath Bhushan after he defeated Vir Deo Singh of Bundela. This place is a classic example of Mughal architecture. The domes are built according to Timurid customs and the gates or Iwans are large enough to allow entry of War elephants, relatively higher position compared to surrounding area made this palace a very important palace for the Mughals.

Chattris (Cenotaphs)

Chattris is a set of magnificent royal tombs of the Maharajas, Situated on the banks of Betwa river.  The charm of Chattris is best experienced when it is viewed from a narrow bridge on the opposite side of the river, from where the entire reflection of the tombs can be seen. The domes are adorned with exquisite paintings, which add to the alluring appeal of Chattris which has attracted tourists since years placed on a platform and supported by the pillars.

Rani Mahal

The Rani Mahal of Orccha is a beautiful fortification right from the pages of the history Spread over a vast area and surrounded by splendid gardens, the architecture and presence of the Rani Mahal is quite humbling. The entire palace is beautifully decorated with detailed stonework on the outside, while the inside holds mesmerizing illustrations and murals of holy epics like the Ramayana. The palace has now been converted into a museum you can easily access these precious art facts and learn more about the history of the place. The museum has paintings from the ninth and twelfth century and also houses various scripts.

Dauji ki haveli

Dauji ki haveli houses beautiful murals which have been well-preserved over the centuries. It is a stunning example of one such building constructed by the Merchants. It looks like a miniature version of the Royal Palace, the architecture of this mansion as magnificent as the bigger haveli. The centre of trading activities, Orchha gave birth to a new class of people- the Merchants.

Chaturbhuj Temple

This famous temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu built in 875 AD during the reign of Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. This temple has beautiful architecture and it consists of a sanctum with pancharatha Sikhara, a vestibule and a porch. The name literally means the one with four arms, and Lord Vishnu has been referred as Chaturbhuj in various Hindu texts.

Shopping in Orchha

In Orchha, Rajasthan Emporium and Indian art gallery is very famous shop for shopping. You can ship embroidered saris and other clothing materials from this shop. In the local market of orchha you can also buy many things and handicrafts. The village bazaar is the central part of Orchha with ruins lying all around. You will find all kinds of brassware and other metal works, antiques jewellery, metal works of Dokra, articles of wrought iron, and other gift items comprising showpieces, mementos, and souvenirs.

Shilpgram Visit: Usually alive with cultural performances and folk dances, Shilpgram is where you can get a glimpse of the town's rich, ancient heritage and shop for exquisite, incredible tribal handicrafts.

Festival in Orchha

Makar Sankranti: Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great fervour all over India with different names and forms. It is considered as the most auspicious day by the Hindus. Makar Sankranti in the central region of India, Madhya Pradesh and Bundelkhand is known as “SUKARAT” or “SAKARAT”.On this day people of Orchha take a holy dip into river Betwa and worship the Sun God of Hindus. The locals also believe that donating food, clothes and monetary fund brings more blessings into life.Special festive delicacies like Jaggery sweets, Til Laddoo, Sweet Chikkis are prepared to enjoy the festivities with friends and family.

Things to do in Orchha

River Rafting: River-rafting trips start from the boat club, but tickets must be bought through MP Tourism at Hotel Sheesh Mahal or Betwa Retreat.

Swimming: A popular spot is in front of the boat club by the bridge that leads into the Orchha Nature Reserve. Swimming is a water activity which is mostly liked by youngsters.

Trekking: Hikking and Trekking is also the main thing which can do at Orchha place. This is a very attractive location for trekking in the morning.

Best restaurant in Orchha

Open Sky Restaurant: A stone's throw away from Ram Raja Temple is a simple, decent eatery on three levels. They provide good food services in reasonable prices. They include Indian, Punjabi, Chinese and continental food.

Ramraja Restaurant: This restaurant is near to the river and the upstairs area has a good view of the fort. Food is best in quality and quantity. This is a best restaurant near to the Betwa River, which provide good services to the customers.

Blue Sky Restaurant: This is a one of the all famous restaurant in Orchha, which provide fresh food with high quality and low prizes. Location is very nice of this restaurant and service is quick. 

Places to visit near khajuraho

Benisagar Lake

Benisagar Lake is situated near a dam on the Khuda River. It is a quick getaway for tourists visiting Khajuraho, which is located at a distance of only 7 km from the lake. Benisagar Lake is a tourist spot and perfect venue for a picnic. There is a dam on Khudar River and is an ideal place for boating and angling. The place poses some good views of the surrounding landscape and also has boating facilities for tourists.

Ranguan Lakes

Lake Ranguan is 20 km from Khajuraho. This delightful lake has boating facilities and are perfect venue for a short picnic especially for local travelers. Rangaun Lake, located at the confluence of Ken and Simri rivers. This scenic lake is sited at a short distance from Khajuraho and is a hot spot amongst tourists visiting the town.

Ranch Water Falls

Ranch Water Falls, 20 km from Khajuraho are famous for the rock formations in the nearby area. These waterfalls empty in to a lake and are a beautiful place to visit and Picnic. Rane fall is named after King Rane Pratap, the erstwhile ruler of the place, and is located in the Ken Gharyal Sanctuary, 34 km from the town of Khajuraho. At this spot, Ken River plummets to a 30 m deep and almost 5 km long ravine and gives birth to this majestic waterfall. The varicolored granite rocks and the bracing environs lend an added beauty to the fall. Moreover, every year Khajuraho Dance Festival is held in the place during the months of February-March and contributes to the beauty and popularity of the place.

Rajgarh Palace

25 km from Khajuraho, just 50-year old Rajgarh Palace is situated at the foot of Maniyagarh hills. The 150 years old Rajgarh Place built by King Shatrujit Bundela is located 25 km from Khajuraho. Perched at the foothills of the Maniyagarh hills, it gives some interesting glimpse of the Bundela architectural style. Today, the fort has been converted into a Heritage Hotel. The hotel houses a museum that acts as a repository of various antique relics and specimens. Another important historical site is the Dhubela Museum, located 64 km from Khajuraho. It also has a rare collection of sculptures of the Shakti cult and other ancient murals and artifacts.

Pandava Waterfalls

Pandava waterfalls, 30 km from Khajuraho, are so called because it is believed that Pandavas spent most of their time in exile here. Pandava falls are on the Ken River. Pandav Falls is situated about 32 km from Khajuraho. According to legends, this paradisiacal spot is the place where the five Pandava brothers camped for about one and a half months, during the last year of their exile. It is encompassed by lush surroundings and is a preferred dwelling place of bears and wild cats. Near the place is a small cave that is consecrated with five sculptures of the Pandava brothers. The placidity of the Pandav falls and the overwhelming serenity that envelops it makes the place a favorite hangout amongst the tourists

Ken Gharial Sanctuary

Ken Gharial sanctuary, 24 km from Khajuraho, is famous among tourists for the crocodiles with long-snouts living in their natural home.

 Dhubela Museum

Dhubela Museum is 64 km away from Khajuraho, located on the bank of a lake in an old fort on the Jhansi-Khajuraho road. Dhulbela museum has a wide variety of sculpture of the Shakti cult and a rare collection of Bundelkhandi artifacts. There are different sections on garments, weapons, and paintings in this museum.

Kalinjar Fort & Ajaygarh Fort

100 km from Khajuraho, Kalinjar fort is situated on Vindhya Ranges. It was built during the Gupta period and was won over by the Chandela ruler Shri Yashovarman in the 10th century. Where Ajaygarh is an old fort, built at a height of 688 meters; it was the capital of the Chandelas during their decline.

Festival in Khajuraho

Khajuraho Dance Festival: This is a cultural festival of Khajuraho organized by Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad. This is a one week long term festival organized annually. This cultural festival highlights the richness of the various Indian classical dance styles such as Kathak, Bharathanatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri and Kathakali with performances of some of the best exponents in the field. Modern Indian dance has also been added recently.

Shopping in Khajuraho

In Khajuraho many shopping centers, markets, and shops are available for shop many things like handicrafts, clothing, food, lighting accessories, books shops, jewellery, metallic statue, Ornaments etc. Kuber market is mainly famous for shopping in Khajuraho. There are handmade bamboo crafts and things are also available to decorate home.

Things to do in Khajuraho

Jungle Safari at Panna National Park:  The most interesting thing to do in Khajuraho is Jungle safari at Panna National park by Jeep. You can see lots of birds and animals in this park. Apart from the king of the forest, you can also spot Elephants, Leopards, Boars, Deers, Himalayan Palm Civets, Jungle Cats, Fishing Cats, Indian Gray Mongoose, Monkey, Sloth Bear and Black Bear here. On this wonderful safari, you may need some luck to spot a tiger on your ride but there are loads of other wonderful sights which are equally alluring.

Best restaurant in Khajuraho

Raja Cafe and Restaurant: Best restaurant and ambience near western group of temple. The cafe is located in front of the western temples of Khajuraho. Hence it is a definitely good place to have lunch after visiting around. They include both Indian and Chinese food with reasonable prize and delicious taste.

Monalisa Restaurant: It’s situated high on a nice balcony giving you a good overview of khajuraho s busy market place. It’s probably the cheapest restaurant in town. But that doesn’t take away the quality of the food. They provide good quality of food.

Maharaja Cafe & Restaurant: Located at opposite western group or temple. The place has excellent food and very quick service. Food is freshly prepared and Quantity is good in a reasonable prize.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

Khajuraho dance festival is organized in February or March Every year to explore the rich Indian culture and its marvelous history. This festival is organized by the Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad. Many world famous artists come and perform here.

The festival continues till one-week. It is held annually with the background of the Khajuraho temples lit behind in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh state. The ambience around is full of art and passion and the background of the magnificent Khajuraho temples enhances the beauty of the festival.

 The Temples of khajuraho

Kandariya Mahadev Temple

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is largest among western group of temples. It was built by Chandela King Vidydhar. The temple derives its name from Kandara meaning cave in English and Mahadev another name for Lord Shiva. Its shikhara (spire) rises about 30m (100 feet) above the platform which it shares with the older Devi Jagadambi temple depicting Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Mahadev in Himalayas and is surrounded by 84 Urushringaras, the smaller spires erected against the Shikhara.

The exterior has over 900 sculptures carved into sandstone stacked without mortar. The carved exterior contrasts with the sanctum that houses a Shiva lingam in the womb of the temple located beneath the main 'shikhara' (spire).

Devi Jagdambi Temple

Believed to be older then Kandariya Mahadev temple, it is built on the same platform as  Kandariya Mahadev .Devi Jagdambi temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu originally. But now it enshrines the image of Goddess Parvati in Sanctum painted in black to give appearance of Jagdambi (Kali). At the entrance, there is sculpture of a warrior fighting bare handed with a Lion, the symbol of Chandela Dynasty.

Chitragupta Temple

Dedicated to Lord Surya, Chitragupta Temple has 5 ft image of Lord Surya driving a chariot of seven horses. Facing eastwards towards the rising sun, it is the place where most of the dance performances take place during the famous Annual Khajuraho dance festival. There is a Chopra Tank; a deep three-storied stepped well that was built by the Chandelas which is around 200 yards from the temple Chitragupta. It is believed that there was a temple in the middle of the tank. The tank however is now in dilapidated state.

Lakshmana Temple

Built by King Yasovarman, Lakshmana temple is  the second largest , the most beautiful and is considered to be one of the oldest of all Khajuraho temples. Main temple is built on a high platform surrounded by 4 subsidiary shrines which are intact. It is the only Panchayatan temple   which is fully intact. Temple entry has an elegant Makara Torana. The lintel over entrance has a figure of trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with Goddess Lakshmi.

There are 3 bands of sculptures on outer walls as well as inner walls. Its sanctum has pradakshina. Sanctum doorway has carvings of lions, Vishnu animal incarnations of fish, tortoise, boar and nava grahas and sagar manthan. Sanctum has 3 headed idol of Vishnu's incarnations including himself, Narsimha and Varaha.

Matangeshwar Temple

Located outside the premises of Western group of temples, it is the only temple where pooja and other religious ceremonies are performed. The temple has 8 feet long shiva lingam.

Chausath Yogini

The only granite temple in the Khajuraho, the very first temple in Khajuraho, Chausath Yogini Temple is dedicated to the 64 yoginis the temple had 67 shrines (out of those around 35 survive). These shrines were considered to be the many manifestation of the goddess Shakti. Regarded to be a 9th millennium monument; this temple is in a dilapidated situation.

Varaha temple

Located in front of Lakshmana temple, it is one of the oldest and smallest temple. Temple has an statue of Standing Varaha (Boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu) which measures 2.6 meters long and 1.7 meter high and is made of sandstone. The temple structure rests on 14 pillars that support pyramidal roof and a Kalash on top.

Nandi Temple

This temple is dedicated to Nandi bull which serves as Vahna of Lord Shiva.

Eastern Group Temples

Parsavnath Temple

Parsavnath temple is the largest Jain temple in India built in the honour of Adinath, the first Jain tirthankar. The temple houses an idol of Parsavnath. One of the surprising characteristic of this Khajuraho temple is that it does not have erotic sculptures as are ubiquitous in other temples in Khajuraho. There are many non erotic sculptures of Surasundaris depicting many postures which visitors watch spellbound.

Ghantai Temple

One of the major Jain temple, Ghantai temple has played a significant role in the development of Jainism in India. The Ghantai temple is locally so called due to chain-and-bell (ghanta) motifs, carved on its pillars. This temple was of the same design as the Parsvanath temple, grandeur in conception and almost twice as large in dimensions. The carvings etched on the main beam, on top of the door include the sixteen auspicious signs seen in a dream by Lord Mahavira's mother and has a multi-armed Jain goddess hovering on a winged Garuda.

Adinath Temple

Located to the north of the Parsvanath temple, Adinath temple is dedicated to Jain saint Adinath. The temple is constructed in the form of 'sapta-ratha' .The walls are adorned with beautifully carved figures including that of Yakshis and court dancer Nilanjana, a famous dancer in the court of Lord Adinath. Other famous temples of Eastern group includemple, Brahma te Vamana Temple, Hanuman Temple and Javari Temple.

Western group of temples

Light and Sound Show

There is a Sound and Light show organized by Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Board every evening, History of Great Chandela Kings and of Khajuraho temples is narrated in the baritone of Bollywood Amitabh Bhachchan. Entry ticket Rs. 120/- for Indians and Rs. 300/- for foreigners. Two shows are held daily, provided it isn’t raining, there’s a minimum of ten people for the show. The first show, in English, is at 7.30 PM; the second show, in Hindi, is at 8.30 PM. There is an entry charges of $US 5 for the western group of temples for foreigners and INR 10 for Indians.

Places to visit in Bandhavgarh national park

Village Tala

The Tala Village brings many fascinating landscapes all around the location. The tourist prefers to visit in Bandhavgarh situated at the lowest region of Bandhavgarh. Along with that while visiting the village the tourists can find different hotels and resorts for magnificent accommodations in the village. There are many captivating glimpses a tourist can explore while spending a day at this village. The modest dwellings, the mud clustered houses, elders smoking hookahs sitting on a cot are such magnificent scenes that brings a standstill on the time.

Climber’s Point

It is one of the most amazing & an ideal place for the tourists to take some rest and for the peace of mind in Bandhavgarh National Park that symbolizes nature’s beauty. This location brings an aerial view of the entire park and the forest in this location is filled with Sal and Bamboo trees. Along with that the place is also being flourished with some f the best and unique species of fauna like butea superba and bauhinia wahlii along with Sal trees.

Bari Gufa

The Bari Gufa which means the “The Giant Cave” showcase the ancient monument of past. Undoubtedly it is one of the most ancient creations in the Indian history. It is being believed that the Bari Gufa is the biggest man-made cave of the reserve dating back to 10th century. The Bandhavgarh area is filled with a number of lakes and caves that really brings an outstanding view to the place.

Three Cave Point

One of the most fascinating place in Bandhavgarh National Park is the three cave point that can be easily visible from the Ganesh Hillock road. This place is perfectly being the ideal home for many wild animals including leopards, tigers and sloth bears. This beautiful location has many beautiful carvings that typically signify the perfect blend of the architectural techniques that were prevalent in the ancient times.

Mahaman Pond

This place is called the “Place of Quench the Thirst” where the variety of herbivores and carnivores inhabiting the national park can be found. The Mahaman Pond is being located near the Bandhavgarh Fort which is being surrounded by bamboo clumps where large varieties of herding of wild creatures can be found.

The Shesh Shaya

The Shesh Shaya is a marvelous 11 meter long & 65 ft horizontally laid statue of Lord Vishnu in the laying position with umbrella of “Shesh Nag” along with the “Shivling” and the “Lord Brahma” are situated here.  The statue is believed to be the asset of 10th century. It is placed on the main entrance of the footpath, way towards the Bandhavgarh Fort. The origin of the river “Charan Ganga” inflows from the foot of “Lord Vishnu” and so the name is being derived from.

Rajbahera

The Rajbahera brings the Bandhaini Hillock view along with the glances of sorks, vultures and herds of chital, samber and wild pigs is definitely an additional attraction of Bandhavgarh. It is a marshy meadow which can be viewed from the Bandhaini Hillock and is the origin of the river Dammer.

Kethika

This place is also known as the Pendanus Point where a lump of an aromatic plant called Kewra can be found amidst the supercilious jammu and arjun trees. It is undoubtedly a real floral treasure of Bandhavgarh Reserve.

Cheshpur Water Fall

The Cheshpur Water fall is a natural water fall in River Johila, situated at a distance of 50 km from Bandhavgarh. It is an ideal location for the tourists to enjoy picnic here.

Jwalamukhi Temple

About 11 km away from Bandhavgarh, this temple is also 10th century founding. It is the temple of the goddess Jwalamukhi situated in the bank of river “Charan Ganga”.

Thing to do in Bandhav garh national park

Open Jeep Safari: Jeep Safaris operate in two shifts, one in early morning at the time of sunrise for duration of 4 hours and then starts again at 2-3pm and goes till the sunset. Each jeep can take up to 6 travelers other than a driver and one naturalist. Visitors typically prefer Tala region to spot tigers. Afternoon shift is typically closed on Wednesdays.

Elephant Safari: Available only in the morning shift, these elephant safaris are on first come first serve basis and charge around Rs. 500 per head to take one to a spot where one can see a tiger in its most natural form. 4 passengers are typically allowed on an elephant and there is a mahout and a naturalist on this trip too.

Trek to Bandhavgarh Fort: A one hour trek is required to reach here from Tala zone and visitors must take a guide to visit this place. There are also a few temples here. The trek is totally worth it to this 800 m high fort as it gives a breathtaking view of the surroundings. There is also a giant 35 feet sleeping statue of Vishnu here. This statue is believed to be dating around 10th century A.D. and Vishnu is shown reclining on the bed made by coils of the Seven Hooded Serpent, called Shesh Naag. The statue is locally known as Shesh Shaiya. There are numerous caves in this fort area and some of them have inscribed paintings and scripts written in Brahmi.

Bandhavgarh National Park Safari Timings

Park Safari Timings     -   Morning Safari    -   Evening Safari   -     Fort Safari

15 Oct - 15 Feb           -    06:30 - 11:00         - 14:30 - 17:30       - Sunrise - to - Sunset

16 Feb - 31 Mar           -   06:00 - 11:00        - 15:00 - 18:00       - Sunrise - to - Sunset

01 Apr - 30 June          -     05:30 - 10:00      - 16:00 - 19:00     - Sunrise - to - Sunset

 Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh National Park

The park opens its gate for the visitors from the month of October-mid to June end. The peak season & best time to visit is from November to February as the climatic conditions are excellent.

Panna National Park

Panna National Park is situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh,at a distance of around 57 km from Khajuraho. The region, famous for its diamond industry, is also home to some of the best wildlife species in India and is one of the most famous Tiger Reserves in the country. The park is known worldwide for its wild cats, including tigers as well as deer and antelope. Due to its closeness to one of the best-known Indian tourist attraction in India, Khajuraho, the park is recognized as an exciting stop-over destination.

Climate of Panna National Park

The climate of the region is tropical. Summers, somewhat scorching, are when one has the maximum chances of encountering the exclusive wildlife of this park. Winters are cold and comfortable and the temperature generally remains under 25°C. Monsoon touches this region in July and continues till mid-September.

How to Reach Panna National Park

By Air: The nearest airport to Panna National park is Khajuraho. It is 37 Kms from Khajuraho.

By Rail: Nearest rail head is Satna and it is a at a distance of 90 Kms from Panna National park.

By Road: The nearest bus stand is Panna it is well connected with all the major cities of Madhya Pradesh.

Panna National Park Timings

Park Safari Timings     -   Morning Safari    -   Evening Safari 

16 Oct – 31 Jan           -    06:30 - 11:00         - 14:30 - 17:30   

16 Feb - 31 Mar           -   06:00 – 10:30       - 15:00 - 18:00      

01 Apr - 30 June          -     05:30 - 10:00      - 15:30 - 19:00    

Months                                             Pandav Fall Timings

16th February to 30th June          06:00 am to 18:30 pm

1st July to 15th February               06:00 am to 17:30 pm

Attractions in and around Panna national park

Pandava Falls and Caves

It is located nearly 12 km from Panna city is surrounded by thick vegetation and is an ideal picnic spot for local people as well as travelers. The falls are close to the national highway and are formed by the streams originating from local springs. These huge falls remain filled with water throughout the year and can be visited during monsoons also. A large pool is formed at the base of this 100 ft high waterfall. Near this large water pool, there are some ancient caves. It is believed that Pandavas took shelter in these caves during their exile.

Diamond Mines

Asia's biggest and only active diamond mine is situated in Madhya Pradesh due to this it is also known as treasure land. Asia's only active Diamond mine is situated in Majhagaon about 55km away from Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. It is located in the interior of the Panna district. Majhagaon diamond mine is laid down over an area of 50 km belt, starting from the Paharikhera North-East to Majhgawan South-West with breadth of around 30 km.

Raneh Fall

Raneh falls are about 20 km from Khajuraho, and are located just where the Ken Gharial Sanctuary begins.The river forms a 5 km long and 30 meters deep canyon, the main attraction at Raneh waterfalls, through which there are series of waterfalls. The canyon is made of pure crystalline granite in varying shades of colors ranging from pink and red to grey. Apart from a few large and small falls which are formed at the assemblage, some of the seasonal falls also appear during monsoons.

Ken crocodile sanctuary

Ken Gharial Sanctuary is located at the assemblage of Khuddar and Ken rivers in Panna of Chhatarpur District of Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1985, Surrounded by forests, the sanctuary has 45 km of river stretch with sand banks and offers shelter to wild boar, chinkara, blue bull, peacock and chitals.  the sanctuary is spread across an area of around 13.5 sq. km. one of the prominent sanctuaries founded with an aim to conserve endangered Indian gharials. The sanctuary serves as a natural habitat to various species of reptiles including 6 m long fish-eating gharial. The sanctuary is open for tourists from sunrise to sunset.

Kalinjar Fort

It is known for its vast collection of monuments and sculptures, which reveals many historic events and practices. This fort was constructed by the Chandela rulers at the end of 1st and beginning of 2nd century for protecting their kingdom from enemy. The fort was constructed on 25-30 m wide foundation to provide maximum strength to the fort. It has a height of 30-35 m with 8 m wide summit with length of around 7.5 km over the hillock. The fort is constructed using sand stone and granite pieces, which are placed over each other.

Baldeoji Temple

Baldeoji Temple is considered as a replica of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.  The temple has the Paladian architectural style and was constructed under the guidance of Mr. Manly, an Italian expert. The central hall of this temple, which is known as mahamandapa, encompasses a number of pillars. Carved from black shaligrami stone, the image of Shri Baldeoji is placed on a raised platform to offer unhindered view even from a distance.

Padmavati Devi Temple

Padmavati Devi Temple is also known as Badi Devi Temple situated on the banks of Kilkila River in the north-west. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Hindu Goddess Padmavati. According to legends, Maharaja Chhatrasal Bundela acknowledged the goddess as his Raj Lakshami besides their kuldevi, goddess Vindhyavasani. The temple is thronged with number of devotees as well as tourists during the Navratri festival.

Gwalior climate

Summer (March to June):  The highest temperature recoded is about 47°C. Gwalior always experiences scorching summers & the day time is very hot and people generally tend to stay indoors.

Monsoon (July to September): The temperature at the place is about 25°C to 32°C. The nights of the monsoon season are cool. The temperature comes down with the rainfall which is quite relaxing and enjoyable but humidity gets higher at the same time.

Winter (October to January): The highest temperature at the place in winters is about 27°C. The winter season at the place can be very chilling as the temperature can get down to zero levels. The chilling winters is the best time in Gwalior to explore the major attractions.

History of Gwalior

• The History of Gwalior Madhya Pradesh mentions that in the 5th century the Gwalior Fort came into being during the rule of Suraj Sen, the Kachhwaha Rajput prince. The old name of Gwalior was Gopadri or Gopagiri according to some historians.  In the late period of 2nd century this city came under the influence of the Nagvans Clan.

•  In the 10th century, Vrajdaman of the Kachapghat Rajvans took over Gwalior. In 1021 AD Mahmud of Gazni attacked Gwalior and Malik Bahauddin Tughluq, one of his lieutenants won it after an intense battle.

• Around the 11th century Sallachan was given the charge of Gwalior fort. Later on Iltutmish was given the charge to man the fort by Qutbuddin Aibak. During later periods, various rulers of Slave and Tughlaq dynasty ruled in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh.

• According to the History of Gwalior Madhya Pradesh, the 14th century saw the Tomar clan coming into power taking advantage of the weak Islamic rulers. The most illustrious ruler of this dynasty was Man Singh who was instrumental in rebuilding the fort of Gwalior.

• During the Third battle of Panipat Gowalior came under the rule of Jat ruler Lokandra Singh. In 1761 Mahadji Scindia an able Scindia ruler regained Gwalior. In April 1948 Madhya Bharat State was formed after merging Indore, Gwalior, Malwa and other small states.