Destinations The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh

Bandhavgarh derives its name from Ramayana legends and was designated as a National Park in 1968. Spread across 1,536 square kilometres in Madhya Pradesh, it is considered one of the most exceptional destinations for wildlife tourism in India. The reserve is mainly recognised for its healthy population of over 150 Royal Bengal Tigers, but is also home to leopards, sloth bears, elephants and more.

These stunning 2,000 year old ruins sit within the core zone of Bandhavgarh National Park. Legend has it that Lord Rama built the fort and gifted it to his brother Lakshman, hence the name Bandhav (brother) and Garh (fort) was derived. In its former glory, the fort was a magnificent hilltop lookout. Nowadays, it is home to exotic birds, bats and more.

Note: The fort is only open to visitors twice a year.

Located within Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, this 11-metre-long monolithic statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on a seven-hooded serpent dates back to the 10th century AD. The vicinity is rich in fruit-bearing trees and boasts a pond that serves as a watering hole for thirsty animals. The river Charanganga, which is the lifeline of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, originates here from the feet, or charan, of Lord Vishnu.

Note: Accessible on safaris through Tala zone or on zone-free, full day safaris.

Badi Gufa or the Giant Cave is a large, man-made cave dated 10th century. Located within Bandhavgarh National Park, its nine small rooms are believed to have been used by monks during ancient times. As well as being of archaeological importance, this cave is now home to a number of bats.

Note: Accessible on safaris through Tala zone or on zone-free, full day safaris.

Maihar is a town known mainly for its famous Sharda Devi temple (built circa 502 AD) and the Art Ichol commune, where artists and artisans collaborate on innovative ideas. With a name inspired by the charming nearby village of Uchal, the centre also promotes skill development and fosters community cohesion.

As the Narmada River winds through the 8-kilometre-long gorge known as Marble Rocks, it narrows, gains momentum and plunges into Dhuandhar Falls. Dhuan, meaning smoke, and Dhar or flow, describes the illusion of smoky vapour that arises from the crashing waterfall. Standing at 30 metres high, Dhuandhar Falls creates a swirling mist so powerful that its roar can be heard from afar.

Note: Located near Jabalpur, the gateway to Bandhavgarh, which is around 4 hours by car from The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh.

Dudh Dhara on the Narmada River is named for its apparently milky white water. Situated on the edge of the Amarkantak valley amidst thick woods and dense forests, the falls and surrounding area are at their most impressive during the monsoon season.

Note: Located near Jabalpur, the gateway to Bandhavgarh, which is around 4 hours by car from The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh.

Amarkantak is a well-known Hindu pilgrimage destination popularly known as "Teerthraj" or "the king of pilgrimages". As well as being spiritually significant, the city is also known for its natural abundance. It is the meeting point of the Vindhya and the Satpura mountain ranges and boasts forests rich with medicinal plants.

Note: Located around 3.5 hours' drive from The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh.