How to get to Bandhavgarh by air, train and road.
Bandhavgarh is deep in the forests of central India. There is no airport or big railway station right next to it.
But getting there is easy once you know the steps. This guide shows you the best way by air, train and road.
How to Reach Bandhavgarh: Quick Facts
By Train
Train is the easiest and cheapest way for most people.
- Umaria station: the closest station, about 35 km from Tala. Take a taxi from the station. It takes about 1 hour.
- Katni Junction: a big station with trains from many cities. It is about 95 to 100 km from Tala, about 2 to 2.5 hours by taxi.
- Jabalpur Junction: a big city station. It is about 4 to 5 hours by road to Tala.
Tip: Check trains to Umaria first. If you can't get a good train, go to Katni. More trains stop there.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jabalpur. It has flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
- From Jabalpur airport, take a taxi to Tala.
- The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the road you take.
Khajuraho also has an airport. But it is farther, about 5 to 6 hours by road from Bandhavgarh.
By Road
Good roads join Bandhavgarh to the nearby cities. Taxis are easy to book.
| From | Approx. drive time |
|---|---|
| Umaria | About 1 hour |
| Katni | About 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Jabalpur | About 4 to 5 hours |
| Khajuraho | About 5 to 6 hours |
| Kanha National Park | About 5 to 6 hours |
| Prayagraj | About 6 to 7 hours |
Note: Drive times change with the route, traffic and road work. Leave early so you reach before dark. Forest roads are not good for night driving.
How to Reach from Big Cities
- From Delhi: take a train to Katni or Umaria, or fly to Jabalpur and drive.
- From Mumbai: fly to Jabalpur and drive, or take a train to Katni or Jabalpur.
- From Kolkata: take a train to Katni or Umaria, then a taxi.
- From Prayagraj or Varanasi: take a train to Katni, then drive to Tala.
- From Bhopal or Indore: take a train to Katni or Jabalpur, then drive.
Combine Bandhavgarh with Other Places
Many people visit Bandhavgarh on the same trip as:
- Kanha National Park: about 5 to 6 hours by road. Read Bandhavgarh vs Kanha.
- Jabalpur: see the Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat on the way.
- Khajuraho: see the famous temples, then drive to Bandhavgarh.
Getting Around in Bandhavgarh
- Most hotels are in Tala village, close to the Tala and Magadhi gates.
- Your hotel can arrange the safari jeep pickup.
- For Khitauli or a buffer zone, the gate may be farther. Ask your hotel how long it takes.
Read about the zones in our Bandhavgarh safari zones guide, and find a stay in our resorts in Bandhavgarh list.
Plan Your Trip
Want us to plan the train, taxi, hotel and safaris for you? See our Bandhavgarh tour packages. New to the park? Start with our Bandhavgarh National Park guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the nearest railway station to Bandhavgarh?
Umaria is the nearest station, about 35 km from Tala. Katni Junction is about 95 to 100 km away and has more trains.
Which is the nearest airport to Bandhavgarh?
Jabalpur Airport is the nearest. The drive from Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh takes about 4 to 5 hours.
How far is Bandhavgarh from Jabalpur?
It is about 4 to 5 hours by road. The exact distance depends on the route you take.
How far is Bandhavgarh from Kanha?
It is about 5 to 6 hours by road. Many people visit both parks on one trip.
Can I reach Bandhavgarh by bus?
There are buses to Umaria and Katni. From there, take a taxi to Tala. A taxi is easier and saves time.
Where should I stay in Bandhavgarh?
Most people stay in Tala village. It is close to the main gates and has hotels for every budget.
