Kakrajhor Tour  (Feb 14-16, 2025)

14.02.25   HWH (0630 hrs) > Ghatshila (910 hrs) > Charmurti Resort - Kakrajhor (by auto) 

15.02.25    Kakrajhor Resort   >  Belpaharii > Kakrajhor Resort

16.02.25   Kakrajhor Resort > Kakrajhor  >  Kakrajhor Resort > Ghatshila (1430 hrs)>HWH (0800 hrs)

 ## Above are the scheduled time

Travel Companions & Last-Minute Changes

The original group included me, Tutu Da, Mohua, and Bunty. Unfortunately, Srijan dropped out at the last moment, and Barun, suffering from flu, also canceled his trip after realizing the severe train delays.

Day 1: February 14, 2025 – Arrival & Exploring Amlasol

Our trip began with a delay as our Janashatabdi (train: 0620 AM) was running late by 4.5 hours. Instead of waiting endlessly, I booked (Rs 130/- per head in a Chair car) the Ispat Express ( 6:30 AM) at around 4 am in the morning, which also departed after a 1.5-hour delay. But by mistake, I booked the ticket for 14th March ! We had to pay a fine to the TTE and paid Rs 360 for the fare per head.

Finally, we reached Ghatshila at 1100 am and took an auto to our accommodation, Charmurti Resort, for Rs 600. 

Name: Ghatshila topographic map, elevation, terrain.

Location: Ghatshila, Purbi Singhbhum, Jharkhand, India (22.56666 86.36979 22.76384 86.63818)

Average elevation: 175 m

Minimum elevation: 70 m

Maximum elevation: 513 m

https://en-gb.topographic-map.com/map-mc5b14/Ghatshila/?center=22.66264%2C86.50909

Dominant languages of East Singhbhum region Jharkhand...

34.42% Bangla.

15.92% Santali.

16.83% Hindi.

7.28% Urdu.

5.65% Bhojpuri.

5.27% Odia.

2.76% Ho.

2.73% Mundari.

1.86% Punjabi.

1.51% Magahi.

1.28% Maithili.

0.97% Telugu

As their first language at the time of the 2011 Census of India.

The increasing dominance of Hindi is steadily eroding and killing the rich linguistic diversity of India, thereby threatening the unique cultural heritage of India.

It took almost 1 hours to reach the resort .The resort charged Rs 1500 per day with food, and for a group of 4 in one room, the cost will be Rs 1300 per person. We opted for 2 person per room. The room was spacios and toilet is big with commode shower.

https://www.kakrajhor.com/

There are some other resorts also. They are few and far between.

You will get all the phone numbers here.

We were served a delicious lunch by Thakurdas Mahato, who is nephew of famous Mahato of Charmurti fame.

The first day was spent exploring the nearby areas at our own pace. We walked around the lush green surroundings, visited a watchtower that offered a panoramic view of the landscape, and ventured into the nearby villages of Amlasol and Amjharna Lake. The rustic charm of these villages, with their simple yet warm lifestyle, was captivating. Amjharna lake, provided a peaceful retreat amid nature.

One of the most interesting spots we stumbled upon was a junction where West Bengal and Jharkhand meet. There we found a school where they teach Santali and Alchiki script was written onthe wall.

GPS LOCATION:

https://goo.gl/maps/Q7EEgxMvJY8KsCk18

PRATHAMIK VIDYALAYA KANIMAHOLI (written in Hindi and Alchiki language)

DPEP NPS KANIMAHULI

UDISE Code: 20180605301

Year Of Establishment: 2000

Link:  https://stackschools.com/schools/20180605301/dpep-nps-kanimahuli

Surprisingly, I was able to get in touch with my PA at this location, due to network availability. He told me  that our Management was frantically serching for me for our coming Board Meeting. We also took some time to play with the local village children, adding a heartwarming experience to our day.

We were served a delicious dinner by Thakurdas Mahato, who is nephew of famous Mahato of Charmurti fame

Day 2: February 15, 2025 – Ketaki Lake & Belpahari Tour

We started our second day with a planned excursion to explore the beautiful landscapes around Belpahari. Our first stop was Ketaki Lake, a picturesque water body surrounded by dense forests. The tranquil atmosphere and the reflection of the lush greenery on the calm waters made for a breathtaking view. There we met the CRPF Jawans and had a chat with them. We were told it was a hotbed of Maoist even few years back.

The tribal houses are as usual very colourful.

From there, we moved towards Belpahari , Ghagra River. We also visited the Tarafeni Dam, a lesser-known but scenic spot ideal for soaking in the natural beauty. Along with these, we explored other tourist spots in the area, immersing ourselves in the serene and unspoiled wilderness.

For lunch, we decided to eat outside the resort, enjoying a delicious local meal before heading back.

The auto fare for the entire day's tour was Rs 1800. However, throughout the day, I remained unreachable mostly as only Reliance Jio had network coverage in this region. Our management kept calling me regarding the board meeting, but I was off-grid.

We were served a delicious dinner .

Day 3: February 16, 2025 – Lakjal Cave, Khandarani Lake & Return Journey

Since we had missed a few places the previous day, we dedicated our last day to covering them. Tutu Da did not join us for this part of the trip. Our first stop was the Laljal Cave.

Next, we visited Khandarani Lake, another beautiful and serene spot. The tranquil waters, surrounded by dense forests, created a mesmerizing view. It was a perfect place to reflect on our journey before heading back. 

We concluded our sightseeing early and returned to our resort by 11:45 AM. 

We were served a delicious lunch.

The auto fare for the day was Rs 1500.

Change of Plans & Journey Back

Initially, we had planned to take the 1:20 AM Badampahar train on February 17, but due to continuous train delays (5-6 hours late on average) due to the priority given to Vande Bharat trains and repair of lines, we decided to change our plans. Instead, we boarded a MEMU train at 2:30 PM, buying the ticket from the platform itself  for Rs 85. This turned out to be a wise decision, as we reached Howrah at 9 PM and were back home by 10 PM.

Final Thoughts

Despite the train delays and connectivity issues, our trip to Kakrajhor and Belpahari was an enriching experience. The natural beauty, the simplicity of the villages, and the peaceful lakes made this journey memorable. The warmth of the local people and the untouched beauty of these destinations truly made it worth every moment. If you want to spend some quite time in the lap of nature with no touristic crowd. Most of the time you are on your own here. Please note only Reliance Jio works here.

 

Which food cannot be digested by the body?

Dr. Roma Charan

Oh, that’s a great question! There’s one particular type of food that comes to mind that the body can’t really digest: fiber. Specifically, insoluble fiber—and it’s actually a good thing that your body can’t break it down! 

## I remember the first time I really dove deep into this topic during medical training; it was fascinating to learn that something we eat regularly, and even need, passes through our digestive system relatively unchanged. Let me explain how this works and why it’s so important for your health.

What is Fiber, and Why Can’t We Digest It?

So, there are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. 

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance during digestion, which can help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels. Think of foods like oats, apples, and beans for that. 

Soluble fiber is partially digested, but insoluble fiber? Nope, that one stays pretty much intact from start to finish.

Insoluble fiber is found in foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and the skins of fruits and vegetables. The reason we can’t digest insoluble fiber is that our body doesn’t produce the enzymes needed to break it down. 

This might sound like a flaw, but it’s actually by design. Fiber’s job isn’t to provide nutrients; it plays a different, very important role in digestive health.

Why Your Body Needs Something It Can’t Digest

It might sound strange that we consume something our body can’t process, but insoluble fiber serves a crucial purpose in keeping our digestive system functioning smoothly. Think of it like this: fiber is like a broom for your digestive tract. It helps to move food and waste through your intestines, keeping things regular and preventing constipation, similar to broom, without broom drains will clog. 

## When I explain this to my patients, I usually compare it to a cleaning system for your gut (The gut refers to the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach and intestines. It is responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste). Without enough fiber, especially insoluble fiber, you might find yourself dealing with uncomfortable digestive issues.

## Back when I was in general practice, I had a patient who came in regularly complaining of bloating and irregular bowel movements. After reviewing her diet, it became clear she was hardly eating any fiber. 

Once we added more high-fiber foods, like leafy greens, whole grains, and even a daily handful of nuts, her digestive health improved dramatically. 

It wasn’t that she wasn’t eating enough or anything; it was just that her body needed that extra help from fiber to keep things moving along smoothly.

Fiber and Gut/gastrointestinal tract Health: The “Good” Bacteria

Here’s where it gets even more interesting. While we can’t digest insoluble fiber, the good bacteria in our gut can partially break down soluble fiber. This feeds the good bacteria in our digestive system, which supports everything from digestion to immune function. 

Think of your gut as an ecosystem, and fiber as the food that helps balance the eco system. 

This relationship between fiber and gut bacteria is one of the reasons you hear so much about fiber being important for overall health—not just for regular bowel movements.

## When I see patients who struggle with things like bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even food sensitivities, I often emphasize the importance of fiber for gut health. 

It’s like giving your body a little extra support for balancing the bacteria in your gut, which in turn helps with digestion, inflammation, and even your immune system.

Fiber and Long-Term Health Benefits

It’s not just about day-to-day digestion, though. Consuming enough fiber has a bunch of long-term benefits. Research has shown that diets rich in fiber are linked to lower risks of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer, particularly colon cancer.

 Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, prevents cholesterol from being absorbed into your bloodstream, and can even aid in weight management by making you feel full longer.

## I remember seeing patients who had a history of high cholesterol and diabetes, and while medication is often necessary, I always encourage lifestyle changes, too. Something as simple as increasing fiber intake can have a big impact on managing blood sugar levels and cholesterol. 

## For example, swapping out refined carbohydrates (like white bread) for whole grains not only adds insoluble fiber to your diet, but it also prevents those sharp blood sugar spikes that contribute to insulin resistance.

The Misconception About “Undigestible” Foods

Now, one thing I sometimes hear from patients is the idea that because fiber isn’t digested, they think it’s somehow “bad” or not useful. That’s one of those common misconceptions I like to clear up. It’s actually the opposite—fiber’s inability to be digested is exactly why it’s so beneficial! 

## I had one patient, a runner, who thought he needed to cut down on fiber because he wasn’t getting “energy” from it. We had to have a good conversation about how, even though fiber isn’t an energy source, it plays an essential role in keeping the gut healthy, reducing inflammation, and preventing issues like constipation that could interfere with his training.

How to Get Enough Fiber

So, what’s the best way to make sure you’re getting enough of this undigestible, yet essential, nutrient? I usually recommend aiming for about 25-30 grams of fiber a day, though most people fall short of that. You can get fiber from foods like:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, barley
• Vegetables: Especially leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, and beans
• Fruits: Apples, berries, oranges, and pears (especially with the skin)
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are excellent sources of fiber.

## Whenever a patient tells me they feel sluggish or bloated, or they’re not "regular," my first question is always, "How much fiber are you eating?" Often, once they start adding more whole foods to their diet, they notice an improvement within a week or two. It’s amazing how something as simple as increasing fiber can have such a significant impact on overall well-being.

Important Tip: Hydration is Key

One last thing—if you’re increasing your fiber intake, you must stay hydrated. Fiber absorbs water, which helps it move smoothly through your digestive tract. If you up your fiber but don’t drink enough water, you might end up feeling more bloated or even constipated. So, keep a bottle of water handy throughout the day, especially if you’re adding more high-fiber foods to your diet.

The Bottom Line

To sum it all up, while insoluble fiber isn’t digested by the body, it plays a critical role in keeping your digestive system healthy. It promotes regularity, supports gut bacteria and even helps prevent chronic diseases. I always remind my patients that sometimes the most important things for our health aren’t the nutrients that give us energy or are broken down for immediate use, but the ones that support long-term health and wellness.

So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, think about adding some extra fiber to your cart. It’s one of those little changes that can make a world of difference, even though you’ll never actually “digest” it!

Source : https://www.quora.com/Which-food-cannot-be-digested-by-the-body

 Steps before a person is convicted in India 

Step 1: Filing of the First Information Report (FIR)

1. Reporting the Crime:

   • The murder is reported to the police by a witness, relative, or other person.
   • The police register a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) (Murder).
   • The FIR includes details of the offense, time, place, and suspected individuals (if known).

2. Jurisdiction:

   • The FIR is lodged at the police station having jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred. 

---

Step 2: Investigation by Police

1. Crime Scene Examination:

   • Police secure and cordon off the crime scene.

2. Collection of Evidence:

   • Physical Evidence: Includes weapons, clothing, and objects found at the crime scene.
   • Forensic teams collect physical evidence such as weapons, bloodstains, fingerprints, footprints, or other incriminating items.
   • Witness Statements: Witnesses are questioned and their statements are recorded under Section 161 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
   • Scientific Evidence:
     • DNA analysis, blood tests, or fingerprints are sent to forensic labs.
     • A medical examiner conducts an autopsy to determine the cause, time, and manner of death..Autopsy reports are obtained from medical examiners to confirm the cause and manner of death.

3. Arrest of the Suspect:

   • Based on preliminary evidence, the police may arrest a suspect under Section 41 of the CrPC.
   • If arrested, the accused must be presented before a magistrate within 24 hours under Section 167 of the CrPC.

4. Police Custody/Remand:

   • Police may request judicial custody or police custody of the accused for interrogation and further investigation.

5. Police Custody (PC) → Judicial Custody (JC)

   1. Police Custody (PC):

      • When an accused is arrested, they are first produced before a magistrate within 24 hours as required by Section 57 of the CrPC.
      • The police may request Police Custody for a maximum of 15 days (under Section 167(2) of the CrPC), if further investigation, interrogation, or evidence recovery is needed.
      • If the magistrate is satisfied with the reasons given by the police, they grant Police Custody for a specific period within the 15-day limit.

      • Transition to Judicial Custody:After the Police Custody period (maximum 15 days), the accused is either:

        • Released (if found innocent or investigation does not justify detention)
        • Sent to Judicial Custody if the investigation is ongoing or the trial is pending , but the police no longer need the accused's direct presence.The court believes there is enough reason to keep the accused detained (e.g., to prevent tampering with evidence or absconding).
        • In cases where police do not need to interrogate the accused (e.g., if the accused surrenders or confesses), the magistrate may directly send the accused to Judicial Custody without first granting Police Custody.

        • Key Differences

          Aspect	Judicial Custody (JC)	Police Custody (PC)
          Custody Authority	Magistrate or Court	Police
          Place of Detention	Jail - like a central or district prison	Police Station Lock-up
          Access to Accused	Police need court or magistrate's permission for interrogation	Police have direct access
          Purpose	Detention until bail or trial JC is used when the investigation is largely complete, and the police no longer require the accused for questioning.	Investigation, interrogation, evidence collection
          Maximum Duration	60-90 days (based on offense)	Maximum 15 days. Within these 15 days, the magistrate may decide to transfer the accused to Judicial Custody.
          Who Controls Detention?	Jail Authorities	Police Officers

6. Recording of Confession or Statements:

   • If the accused confesses, it is recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC.
   • A confession made to the police alone is not admissible in court.

---

Step 3: Filing of the Charge Sheet

1. Completion of Investigation:

• After collecting sufficient evidence, the police prepare a Charge Sheet under Section 173 of the CrPC.

• The charge sheet includes:
  • Details of the crime.
  • Evidence and witness statements.
  • Charges framed under relevant IPC sections (e.g., Section 302 for murder).

1. Submission to Magistrate:

   • The charge sheet is submitted to the judicial magistrate for further legal proceedings.

2. Time Limit for Filing a Charge Sheet

   1. For Offenses Punishable with Death, Life Imprisonment, or Imprisonment of More than 10 Years:

      • The charge sheet must be filed within 90 days from the date of the arrest of the accused.

   2. For Offenses Punishable with Imprisonment of 10 Years or Less:

   • The charge sheet must be filed within 60 days from the date of the arrest of the accused.

   3. Consequences of Delay in Filing the Charge Sheet

      1. Default Bail:

         • If the police fail to file the charge sheet within the prescribed time limit (60 or 90 days), the accused becomes entitled to default bail under Section 167(2) of the CrPC, provided they apply for it.

      2. Extension of Time:

      • In exceptional circumstances, the police or investigating agency can request an extension of the time limit by seeking permission from the magistrate.
      • For cases involving UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act), the time limit can be extended up to 180 days, subject to judicial approval.

      3. Filing After Time Limit

         Even if the time limit expires, the police can still file the charge sheet. However:

         • The accused cannot remain in custody beyond the prescribed period, unless bail is denied for other reasons.
         • Filing the charge sheet late does not  nullify the case; it simply strengthens the defense's argument for speedy trial rights.

---

Step 4: Pre-Trail : Framing of Charges

1. Cognizance by Magistrate:

   • The magistrate reviews the charge sheet and decides whether the case should proceed to trial.

2. Appearance of the Accused:

   • The accused appears before the magistrate/court.

3. Framing of Charges:

   • The court frames specific charges based on the evidence provided in the charge sheet (e.g., Section 302 IPC for murder).
   • The accused is formally informed of the charges.

4. Plea of the Accused:

   • The accused is asked to plead "guilty" or "not guilty." Most plead "not guilty," and the case proceeds to trial.

---

Step 5: Trial Process

The trial is conducted according to the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

1. Prosecution Evidence:

   • The prosecution presents its case, supported by evidence and witness testimonies.
   • Witnesses are examined in court and cross-examined by the defense counsel.

2. Defense Evidence:

   • The defense presents its case and may also call witnesses or submit evidence to challenge the prosecution's claims.

3. Examination of the Accused:

   • Under Section 313 of the CrPC, the court examines the accused to explain any evidence against them.

4. Final Arguments:

   • Both sides present their closing arguments summarizing their positions.

5. Judgment:

   • The court evaluates the evidence and delivers its judgment:
     • If found not guilty, the accused is acquitted.
     • If found guilty, the accused is convicted.

---

Step 6: Sentencing

1. Sentencing Hearing:

   • After conviction, the court conducts a separate hearing to determine the sentence.
   • Factors considered include:
     • Aggravating Circumstances: Premeditation, brutality, motive.
     • Mitigating Circumstances: Age, mental health, provocation.

2. Pronouncement of Sentence:

   • Common sentences for murder under Section 302 IPC:
     • Death Penalty: For the "rarest of rare" cases (as per guidelines in the Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab judgment).
     • Life Imprisonment: Imprisonment for life.
     • Fine: Sometimes imposed along with imprisonment.

---

Step 7: Appeals Process

1. Right to Appeal:

   • The convict has the right to appeal the judgment in a higher court.

2. Hierarchy of Appeals:

   • Trial Court → High Court → Supreme Court:
     • An appeal against the trial court’s judgment is filed in the High Court.
     • The Supreme Court hears appeals against High Court judgments.

3. Death Sentence Confirmation:

   • If the trial court awards a death sentence, it must be confirmed by the High Court under Section 366 of the CrPC.

4. Special Leave Petition (SLP):

   • The convict can file an SLP in the Supreme Court for further review.

---

Step 8: Mercy Petition

1. Presidential Mercy:

   • After all judicial remedies are exhausted, the convict can file a mercy petition with the President of India under Article 72 of the Constitution.
   • Governors can also be approached under Article 161 for mercy.

2. Review of Petition:

• The mercy petition is reviewed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and other legal advisors before reaching the President.

Please note : CrPC and IPC no longer exist. But the basic procedure for the above remains same.

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve - Land of Bajrang - 2024 (Diary in brief )

 

14.11.24   CCU (18 20 hrs) >Raipur (20 00 hours) > Train by Gondia BJU Express to Umaria

15.11.24    Raipur (00 15 hours) >  Umaria (Train by Gondia BJU Express) > Auto (@Rs 700) > Greetoe                                                   Celebration Van Vilas Bandhavgarh (08 30 hrs)

15.11.24  Greetoe Celebration Van Vilas Bandhavgarh

                 Evening Safari at Tala

16.11.24  Greetoe Celebration Van Vilas Bandhavgarh

               Morning Safari at Khitauli  

                Evening Safari at Tala

17.11.24  Morning Safari at Tala   

                Evening Safari at Khitauli

17.11.24-18.1124  Greetoe (19 15 hrs)>Raipur (04 40 hrs)

18.11.24  Raipur ( 08 40 hrs)>CCU (1010 hrs) >Office

14.11.2024 

Sovon, Arun, Mohua, and I took a flight from CCU at 1820 hours. Unfortunately, Sudipta Da could not get a plane ticket and instead travelled on the Vande Bharat Express train. We arrived at Raipur around 2000 hours and took an Uber to Raipur Junction, paying approximately ₹570. By the time we reached Raipur, the station was already quite empty. We had dinner at one of the numerous restaurants near the station. Sovon and Arun enjoyed a Rajasthani Thali, while Mohua and I opted for Domino’s Pizza, supplemented by fried rice that we had brought from home.

We were scheduled to take the Gondia BJU Express at 1235 hours to reach Umaria at 0638 hours.

However, Sudipta Da would have surely missed the connecting train (expected to reach Raipur at 0130 hours) if not for the advice of a helpful local person. He explained that since the Vande Bharat Express follows the Kolkata > Bilaspur > Raipur route, and our train was heading towards Umaria via the Raipur > Uslapur (near Bilaspur) > Umaria route, Sudipta Da could alight at Bilaspur instead of Raipur. From Bilaspur, he could take a train or an auto to reach Uslapur, which is just 8 km away and serves as a bypass station for Bilaspur.

Bilaspur is approximately 2 hours from Raipur, and this advice turned out to be a lifesaver. Sudipta Da managed to get down at Uslapur at 0230 hours and catch the train to Umaria. Thanks to the local person, who spent nearly 40 minutes explaining everything in detail, Sudipta Da successfully joined us at Umaria the next day. It was a huge relief for all of us, especially since missing the first safari seemed inevitable at one point.

There are various ways to reach Bandhavgarh, and this experience reinforced how vital local advice can be when traveling in unfamiliar territories.

Get In

By air: Jabalpur Airport, at a distance of 190 km, is the closest airport to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Private vehicles are available to form the airport to the national park area. Since Kolkata to Jabalpur connection by flight has stopped, we had to go to Raipur to go to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve 

By rail: Satna Railway Station, at a distance of 133 km, is the nearest railhead to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Apart from that Umaria is only 39 Km from Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Katni is 102 Km from Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Another important important station is Shahdol, MP , which is near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.

Bandhavgarh National Park is well connected with all the major cities and stations in India. 

• Jabalpur : 190 km/ 4 hrs
• Satna: 120 km
• Umaria: 39 km/ 45 min
• Khajuraho: 270 km/ 6 hrs
• Katni: 102 km

https://www.bandhavgarhtigerreserve.org

We could have opted for any of the options. On the date of journey Raipur>Umaria was the best option for us.

By road: Umaria is the best option for us to reach Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. We could have taken the road journey from Katni or Shahdol or Satna, depending upon the connection train or Plane.

Know Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is mostly spread in Umaria district along with Katni and Shahdol districts of Madhya Pradesh, in the Satpura and Vindhya mountain ranges. It's known for having one of the highest densities of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world. The Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is spread across 1537 square km, out of which 717 sq km is considered a core area in the park and 820 is Core area.

The foliage in Bandhavgarh National Park is mostly of dry deciduous type. There are 32 hills, plateaus, meadows and cliffs – all of this makes it a very unique place. It is somewhat similar to Ranthambore NP.

The vegetation of Bandhavgarh is specially filled with Sal forest in the valleys and Bamboo stretches on the lower slopes of the region. While half of the forest is being covered with fine trees of Sal and Bamboo, the forest also beholds the mixed species around the higher hills that also includes high grasslands which are the major specialty of the Bandhavgarh jungle. We saw Leopard tree, Indian Ghost tree, Crocodile barked tree etc.

https://www.bandhavgarh-national-park.com/flora-in-bandhavgarh.html

Bandhavgarh National Park like all the other parks of Madhya Pradesh, remains open for visitors from 1st October till the 30th June. But in winter it is very cold and sightings are not  good . We visited in 15th November-17th November and we did not have very good sightings, though we saw tiger 3 times in 5 safaris.

Core Zones : There are 3 Core safari zones in Bandhavgarh National Park, namely Tala Zone (540 Sq kms), Magadhi Zone (400 Sq kms), and Khitauli Zone (400 Sq Kms).

Tala : the oldest zone of Bandhavgarh National park, is characterized by Sal forests, hillocks, and grasslands that offer scenic 

views and exceptional sightings. Tala Gate is the most popular. 

Khitauli Zone : Khitauli zone turn up as a hot spot for Tiger sightings in last few years. The forest is more dry & deciduous. 

Khitauli zone is also good for sighting neelgai, four-horned antelope, and chinkara.

While Tala zone has natural caves, ruins of a fort , some old temples and thick forest cover, Magadhi zone has more

grasslands. The rides in Tala zone is quite bumpy. The Khitauli Zone is good for birding plus sloth bear.

Magdhi Zone : zone comes up with number of natural and manmade waterholes that attract animals, thus offers good

sightings. This part of National park has mixed dense forest and grasslands.

Buffer Zones : Dhamokhar Buffer Zone, Johila Buffer Zone, and Panpatha Buffer Zone. These buffer zones cover an 

area of approximately 820 square kilometers.

Winter Season, October to February is best time to enjoy the lush greenery of the park. Forest is completely green and offers a scenic background along with sightings. Animals can be seen roaming leisurely in their natural habitat.

Summer season, March to June, can be hot and dry, but it offers the best chances for spotting animals.

Source : https://www.mpforests.com/

Morning Safari in November - 6.15 am - 1100 am

Evening safari in November - 3.00 am - 5.45 am

Night Safari ( 7 pm to 10.30 pm). 

There was an elephant safari also.

Unlike other national parks, Bandhavgarh seems to be much easier to book. The booking process is transparent—you can actually check the availability of seats in different areas. Unlike Corbett, Bandhavgarh appears to be free from scams. However, I opted to book through my friend Avijit (contact: 89101 11675), who handles bookings semi-professionally. He is very reliable, lives near my house, and has up-to-date knowledge of all the parks in India.

For those interested, you can book directly via the official government website:
M.P. Forest Department Website - https://forest.mponline.gov.in

Booking and Safari Details:

• Like other national parks in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh allows a maximum of 8 people per jeep: 6 tourists, 1 guide, and 1 driver.
• Canter service is also available, making it possible to book individual seats for certain zones.
• The park is reportedly closed on Tuesdays, although I did not independently verify this information.

Costs:

• We initially paid ₹2,950 per safari online (₹2,450 for the permit + ₹500 as the agent's service charge).
• At the resort, we paid the remaining balance of ₹4,200 per safari (₹3,600 for the vehicle + ₹600 for the guide).

Overall, the process was straightforward and efficient, thanks to Avijit’s assistance.Bandhavgarh Fort

In the core Tala zone of Bandhavgarh lies a fort which is the oldest fort of India – the Bandhavgarh Fort. It links back to the Ramayana era. It is said that it was a hill which Lord Rama flattened into a plateau. And then built a fort on top of it. He gifted this fort to his brother Lakshmana. This is where the name “Bandhavgarh” originates. In hindi, “Bandhu” means “Brother” and “Garh” means “Home“. Thus the name, “Bandhavgarh“. The fort is very massive and it has several temples also inside it.

Shesh Saiya and Charan-ganga

Near the Bandhavgarh fort lies the Shesh Saiya, a statue of God Vishnu lying in a reclining position on the 7-hooded snake “Shesh Nag” . A stream of water flows from near his toe. This is believed to be the source of Charan Ganga – which meets the ocean at Dwarka.

Natural caves

There are many ancient caves in the Tala zone of Bandhavgarh National Park as well. They are located at the base of the Bandhavgarh Fort. And it seems these caves were used for meditation purpose in the ancient times. There are in total around 39 such caves in this region. The biggest cave is called “Badi Gufa” (Big cave). In the later time, these caves were used by the wild animals of the national park. On the last day, we went to see this.

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Jungle Attractions

Bandhavgarh has one of the highest density of tigers known in the world and is home to some well-known tigers which are large. Charger, a tiger so named because of his habit of charging at elephants and tourists (whom he nonetheless did not harm), was the first healthy male known to be living in Bandhavgarh since the 1990s,as well as a female known as Sita. Charger once appeared on the cover of National Geographic and is considered the second most photographed tiger in the world. Almost all the tigers of Bandhavgarh are descendants of Sita and Charger.

Apart from tiger, there are in general more than 22 species of mammals and more than 250 species of birds. 

Some of the most famous animals in the Bandhavgarh National Park include carnivores like Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Gray Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat. The artiodactyls found here include wild pig, spotted deer, sambar, chausingha, nilgai and chinkara with mammals like dhole, the small Indian civet, palm squirrel.

Birds include crane, black kite, crested serpent eagle, black vulture, Egyptian vulture, common peafowl, red jungle fowl, dove, parakeet, Indian roller can also be found in abundance. 

Apart from the above, the park also has special birds like Grey Hornbill and White-Breasted Kingfisher etc.

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15.11.2024 

Gondia BJU train reached Umaria at 0640 hours, and we had set an alarm to ensure we got off at Umaria, as it is not the last stop. We hired an auto for ₹700 each (Manager: Anil Yadav - 6260 267264, and resort contact: Siddhartha Ghose - +91 89894 70874) to reach our resort, Greetoe Celebration Van Vilas Bandhavgarh (https://greetoeresorts.com/).

The resort could have arranged a car for us at ₹2000 for 5 people or ₹1500 for 4 people. The resort is owned by someone from Satna and also has properties in Panna, Sanjay Dubri, and Kanha. A notable feature of the resort is a large banyan tree, under which guests can enjoy swings. It is one of the most interesting resorts I have stayed at. When we arrived, we saw a local woman creating a Gondia painting.

We were informed that if we wanted a specific driver for the safari, we would need to pay ₹1000 extra per safari. They emphasized that having a good driver is more important than having a guide. Later, we learnt that most guides have only 2–3 years of experience, and one guide had just 1.5 months of experience.

From the guide, we learnt that Bandhavgarh has 165 tigers. A male tiger's territory spans about 40 sq km, while a female's is 10–15 sq km. Unlike lions, both male and female tigers hunt. Tigers are highly active at night, and their night vision is excellent. Deer have an exceptional sense of smell, so tigers prefer to stay downwind to avoid alerting their prey. Every year, deer shed and regrow their antlers. While new antlers are growing, they have significant blood circulation and can bleed if injured. Tigers are especially fond of sambar meat, which can sustain them for up to 10 days. A tiger can eat up to 15 kg of meat daily. Female tigers typically weigh 300–350 kg, while males weigh 400–450 kg. The average lifespan of a tiger in the wild is about 15 years.

We stayed in Room No. 206, which had an attached swing and an open space for bathing under the sky—a unique feature in addition to the standard bathroom. After quickly having lunch, we left for the safari at 1430 hours.

SAFARI 

15.11.24

The first (evening) safari was at Tala Gate. It began at 1500 hours and ended at 1745 hours. You are required to carry a hard copy of the online booking for entry. The weather was quite cold but still bearable.

Our guide was relatively new, with only two years of experience. Unfortunately, we did not have any notable wildlife sightings during this safari. However, we did see spotted deer, barking deer, and langurs. Interestingly, we spotted a Grey Hornbill inside the resort itself!

After returning, we had dinner and went to bed early, as we needed to wake up early for the next day's activities.

16.11.2024 

The morning safari was at Khitauli Gate, starting at 0615 hours and ending at 1100 hours. Located in Madhya Pradesh, this gate is known for being more tourist-friendly. Notably, they did not charge for cameras. As with all safaris, you are required to carry a hard copy of the online booking. There was a breakfast break during the safari, which was arranged by our resort.

The sightings during the morning safari were excellent. We spotted an Adjutant Stork (মদনটাক), a tiger, a Grey Hornbill, a Red-throated Lapwing, peacocks, Indian Roller bird, wild boars and sambars.

After returning from the safari, we enjoyed a relaxing chit-chat session.

The evening safari was at the famous Tala Gate, renowned for its wildlife diversity. The sightings here were equally impressive. We saw a tiger twice, as well as a vulture, an owlet, peacocks, langurs, and a Racket-tailed Drongo.

After dinner, we went to bed early to prepare for the next day's activities. The resort also organized a vibrant tribal dance performance, adding a cultural touch to the evening.

17.11.2024 

The morning safari was once again at Tala Gate.

Unfortunately, the sightings were not very impressive this time. We observed a Rufous Treepie, a vulture, a spotted owlet, a common kestrel, sambar deer, and spotted deer. During the safari, we visited an ancient statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on the 7-hooded serpent, "Shesh Nag." This remarkable sculpture is believed to be over 1,000 years old. A stream of water flows from near Vishnu's toe, which is said to be the source of the Charan Ganga river, eventually meeting the ocean at Dwarka. The statue is located within the Tala Gate zone, atop a hill. We also explored several ancient caves in the area, which were reportedly used as stables, a court, and other purposes in historical times.

The evening safari was at Khitauli Gate.

The sightings were not great here either. We did, however, see an elephant owned by the Forest Department, which is used for monitoring wildlife.

After the safari, we returned to the resort, enjoyed a cup of tea, and then departed for the airport at 7:20 PM.
Our car reached the airport at 440 am. We had one tea break and one dinner break. We travelled 420 Km, longer than google route, since road was not very good. In any case for 60 Km road was quite bad.

Our morning flight was at 0840 hours and we reached Kolkata at 10.10 hours and went straight to the office.

SOURCE :

wikipedia

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https://www.bandhavgarhtigerreserve.org/tourist/point-of-interests