Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is known for its rich culture and educational institutions. Bandhavgarh, located in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its national park and tiger reserve, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from across India. Traveling from Pune to Bandhavgarh is popular among tourists seeking a thrilling wildlife experience combined with a break from city life.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bandhavgarh from Pune, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel times, routes, ticket costs, and insider tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Pune to Bandhavgarh – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a convenient and economical way to reach Bandhavgarh from Pune, especially for those who prefer overnight journeys and scenic routes. Though there is no direct train to Bandhavgarh, nearby stations connect well with Pune.

• Nearest railway stations:

  The closest major station to Bandhavgarh National Park is Umaria, about 35 km away. Another option is Katni Junction, approximately 90 km from Bandhavgarh. Both stations are well connected by trains from major cities.

• Route and duration:

  From Pune, you can board trains like Pune–Bilaspur or Pune–Jabalpur routes and change trains at Jabalpur or Katni to reach Umaria. The total journey can take 24 to 30 hours depending on connections and train type.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Train fares range from INR 500 for sleeper class to INR 1500 for AC 3-tier. Booking via IRCTC in advance is recommended to secure preferred classes, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains on this route run daily but may require 1–2 changes. Sleeper and AC coaches offer comfortable overnight travel. Carry your own food or buy at station stalls during stops.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid monsoon travel due to possible delays and slippery platforms. Early morning or late-night trains are less crowded and cooler.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Umaria or Katni, hire local taxis or shared jeeps to reach Bandhavgarh National Park, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

Bus

Bus travel is an option for budget travelers but involves multiple changes and longer travel times. Direct buses from Pune to Bandhavgarh are not available, so planning is essential.

• Route options:

  Take a Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) or private bus from Pune to Jabalpur or Katni. From there, local buses or taxis can be hired to reach Bandhavgarh.

• Travel time and cost:

  Pune to Jabalpur by bus can take 20 to 24 hours, costing around INR 800 to 1200. Additional local transport to Bandhavgarh costs INR 300 to 600.

• Bus types and comfort:

  Volvo or deluxe buses offer better comfort for long journeys. Sleeper buses are rare on this route. Booking tickets online via MSRTC or private portals is advisable.

• Frequency:

  Buses run daily but may have limited night services. Avoid traveling during festivals to prevent overcrowding.

• Road conditions:

  National Highways NH52 and NH30 connect Pune to Madhya Pradesh. Roads are generally good but can be congested near cities. Carry water and snacks for long stretches.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Bandhavgarh is ideal for travelers who enjoy road trips and want flexibility in stops and sightseeing. The distance is approximately 1100 km, taking around 20 to 22 hours by car.

• Recommended route:

  Take NH48 from Pune towards Mumbai, then NH52 via Indore and Betul, followed by NH30 to Umaria. This route passes through scenic landscapes and several towns for breaks.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  Most highways are well maintained with multiple toll plazas. Keep cash or FASTag ready. Avoid night driving in rural areas due to limited lighting and wildlife crossings.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Numerous fuel stations, restaurants, and dhabas are available along the route. Popular stops include Indore and Jabalpur for meals and overnight rest.

• Travel tips:

  Start early to avoid city traffic in Pune and Indore. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals may be weak in forested areas near Bandhavgarh.

• Local driving:

  Roads inside Bandhavgarh National Park are rough and require a 4x4 vehicle or guided safari jeep. Private cars are not allowed inside the core zone.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach near Bandhavgarh from Pune, but requires connecting ground transport. The nearest airports are Jabalpur and Khajuraho.

• Flight routes:

  Pune has direct flights to Delhi and Mumbai, from where you can catch connecting flights to Jabalpur or Khajuraho. Flights from Pune to Jabalpur usually have one or two stops and take around 5 to 7 hours.

• Airfare and booking:

  Airfares vary from INR 3500 to 7000 depending on the season and advance booking. Use airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip for best deals.

• From airport to Bandhavgarh:

  Jabalpur airport is about 160 km from Bandhavgarh, and Khajuraho airport is approximately 190 km away. Hire prepaid taxis or arrange private transfers for the 3.5 to 4-hour drive.

• Flight frequency:

  Flights to Jabalpur and Khajuraho operate daily but with limited timings. Plan your arrival to avoid late-night landings as local transport options reduce after dark.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights can be delayed during monsoon due to weather. Booking early morning flights increases chances of on-time arrival.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Bandhavgarh, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC, MSRTC, or airline portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and comfortable clothing. For train or bus journeys, bring a neck pillow and light blanket for overnight comfort.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Pune railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 1 hour before departure to handle check-in and boarding smoothly.

• Plan your transfers carefully:

  If traveling by train, check connecting trains at Jabalpur or Katni. For flights, pre-book airport transfers to Bandhavgarh to avoid waiting for taxis.

• Use local transport wisely:

  Upon arrival at Umaria or Katni, use prepaid taxis or shared jeeps to reach Bandhavgarh. Avoid unlicensed cabs for safety and fair pricing.

• Confirm accommodation in advance:

  Book lodges or resorts near Bandhavgarh National Park before arrival, as options fill quickly during peak season.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on rural roads. Use trusted taxi services like Ola or Uber where available, or pre-arranged hotel pickups.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially when traveling by train or bus. Eat at reputed dhabas or restaurants to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train bookings and MSRTC or private portals for buses. For flights, compare fares on multiple apps and book refundable tickets if possible.

• Local commute:

  Inside Bandhavgarh, use authorized safari vehicles for park visits. Private vehicles are not allowed in core zones to protect wildlife.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and sunscreen in summer. Carry a small first-aid kit for emergencies.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and train delays. Winter mornings may be foggy, affecting visibility and flight schedules.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bandhavgarh is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains, making travel difficult.

Planning your journey during off-peak hours and avoiding festival weekends ensures a smoother experience with less crowding and better availability of transport and accommodation.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Pune and major cities by starting early morning or late evening.

• Steer clear of major Indian festivals like Diwali or Holi when transport and hotels are heavily booked.

• Travel during post-monsoon months for lush greenery and active wildlife but expect occasional road wetness.

• Early morning departures help avoid fog delays in winter and provide cooler travel conditions.

Arrival at Bandhavgarh & What to Expect

On arrival at Umaria or Katni railway stations or Jabalpur airport, travelers will find prepaid taxi counters and local jeep services to reach Bandhavgarh National Park. The drive offers glimpses of rural Madhya Pradesh and small towns.

Bandhavgarh offers a range of accommodations from budget lodges to luxury resorts near Tala and Magadhi gates. Local transport inside the park is limited to authorized safari vehicles, which can be booked through your lodge or the forest department.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying to Jabalpur followed by a taxi to Bandhavgarh is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach this wildlife destination from Pune. However, train travel offers a budget-friendly alternative with scenic routes and overnight comfort.

With proper planning, advance bookings, and awareness of local conditions, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey from Pune to Bandhavgarh. This guide equips you with all the necessary information to embark on your wildlife adventure confidently.