Bandhavgarh National Park
Exploring the Core and Buffer Zones of Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is a renowned tiger reserve located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The park is divided into core and buffer zones, each playing a vital role in the conservation and management of the park's diverse ecosystem. While the core zone is strictly protected with limited tourism activity, the buffer zone acts as a transitional area between the core zone and human settlements. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the core and buffer zones of Bandhavgarh National Park and debunk the myth that tiger sightings are limited to the core zones.
Core Zone:
The core zone of Bandhavgarh National Park represents the heart of the reserve and encompasses the park's most important areas. It is the primary habitat of the tiger population and other key wildlife species. The core zone shares its boundaries with the buffer zone but remains largely untouched by human activities. Inside the core zone, only a small portion is open to regulated tourism, ensuring minimal disturbance to the wildlife. No human habitation or extraction of forest produce is permitted in this area. The three core zones of Bandhavgarh National Park are Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli.
1.1 Tala Zone:
Tala Zone is the oldest and most famous zone of Bandhavgarh National Park. It is home to the historic Bandhavgarh Fort, which holds significant cultural and archaeological importance. Visitors can explore the fort and witness a 10th-century statue of Lord Vishnu, known as Shesh Shaiya. Tala Zone also features magnificent meadows such as Chakradhara and Rajbhera, which offer breathtaking landscapes and excellent wildlife sightings. Towering Sal forests, hillocks, and grasslands characterize this zone.
1.2 Magadhi Zone:
Magadhi Zone is characterized by vast grasslands and mixed dense forest cover. It has gained popularity as the best area for tiger sightings in Bandhavgarh in recent years. The zone is dotted with natural and manmade water holes, providing a constant water source for wildlife. Sukhi Patiha, Dabhadhole, Charkpwaha, and Murdhawa are some of the notable water holes in Magadhi Zone.
1.3 Khitauli Zone:
Khitauli Zone is predominantly a dry-deciduous forest and has emerged as a hotspot for tiger sightings in recent years. This zone became home to a herd of migrant wild elephants, attracted by the abundant bamboo cover that serves as their food source. In addition to tigers, Khitauli Zone offers opportunities to spot other wildlife species such as neelgai, four-horned antelope, and chinkara.
Buffer Zone:
The buffer zone surrounds or adjoins the core areas of Bandhavgarh National Park, acting as a transition zone between the core and human-inhabited regions. It plays a crucial role in dispersing wildlife and acts as a buffer for the core zone against external disturbances. While human habitation and regulated activities are permitted in the buffer zone, conservation measures are in place to ensure sustainable use of natural resources.
2.1 Dhamokhar Buffer:
Dhamokhar Buffer is an extension of the Magadhi Zone and shares its entry point with Mahaman and Parasi villages. This buffer zone encompasses regions like Jamunia, Jhanjh, Mudgudi, Kehrawah, Kadewaha, Madehavah, and Kalwadhaar. Notable features of this area include Mudgudi Dam, natural caves of Sehimaada, and Kadewaha grasslands
2.2 Johila Buffer:
Johila Buffer is an extension of the Tala Zone and can be accessed near Chechpur village on the way to Manpur-Shahdol. It is located 35 km away from Tala village. The buffer zone is named after the picturesque Johila Waterfall, which serves as a popular attraction for tourists during buffer safaris. Johila originates from Amarkantak and drains into the Son River. Other notable attractions in this buffer zone include Kuthulia Waterfall, Chindia Ghaat, Badia Ghaat, and Zurnar Ghaat.
2.3 Panpatha Buffer:
Panpatha Buffer is an extension of the Khitauli Zone and has its entry point near Pachpedi village, approximately 25 km away from Tala village. This area is known for its bamboo and deciduous tree cover, providing an ideal habitat for wildlife. Visitors to this buffer zone have the opportunity to spot animals such as chinkara, four-horned antelope, blue bull, and even wild dogs. A scenic stream populated with Arjun trees serves as a picturesque spot for breakfast and lunch during safaris in this zone.
Core and Buffer Zones' Influence on Tiger Sightings:
There is a common misconception that tiger sightings are limited to the core zones of Bandhavgarh National Park. However, this is not accurate. Tigers are highly territorial animals, and while the prime locations within the core zone are occupied by dominant individuals, sub-adult tigers start establishing their territories in buffer zones and other forest patches.
Due to effective conservation efforts and improved protection measures, the tiger population in Bandhavgarh National Park has increased significantly over the past decade. Tigers have dispersed to various forest pockets, including lesser-known sanctuaries and smaller forest patches. Although the prey base may be limited in these areas, tigers have adapted and even thrive on feral cattle.
Buffer zones, often underrated for safaris, provide a unique opportunity to explore diverse habitats and observe wildlife beyond tigers. These zones encompass villages, farmlands, scrub forests, grasslands, and dense vegetation, creating an ideal habitat for species such as four-horned antelope, chinkara, wolves, and blue bull. Additionally, with the recent permission granted for night safaris, the buffer zones reveal hidden nocturnal gems, allowing visitors to witness the fascinating creatures of the night alongside tiger sightings.
Bandhavgarh National Park's core and buffer zones play distinct roles in the conservation and management of its rich biodiversity. The core zone serves as the primary habitat for tigers and other wildlife, while the buffer zone acts as a transition area and provides a buffer against external disturbances. Contrary to popular belief, tiger sightings are not limited to the core zones, as tigers have established territories in various forest patches, including buffer zones.
Exploring both the core and buffer zones of Bandhavgarh National Park provides a comprehensive experience of the park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. While the core zones offer historical attractions, scenic meadows, and dense forests, the buffer zones provide opportunities to witness lesser-known species and engage in sustainable wildlife tourism. By appreciating the significance of both zones, visitors can contribute to the conservation efforts and sustainable development of Bandhavgarh National Park.