Bandhavgarh Photography
Join us on an extraordinary learning tour to Bandhavgarh, a journey filled with unparalleled experiences.
About the Expedition
Key Biodiversity Highlights of Bandhavgarh
Welcome to Bandhavgarh—India’s crown jewel of wildlife photography. Known for its extraordinary Bengal tiger sightings and breathtaking natural beauty, this former royal hunting ground of the Maharajas of Rewa now thrives as a sanctuary for wildlife lovers and photographers from around the world. From lush Sal forests and sprawling meadows to rugged hills, every corner of Bandhavgarh tells a story. With leopards, sloth bears, deer, wild boars, and over 250 bird species, it offers endless opportunities to capture the wild at its most magnificent.
Bandhavgarh is renowned for having one of the highest densities of Royal Bengal Tigers in India. Other prominent mammals include leopards, sloth bears, gaur, sambar, chital, nilgai, wild boar, and dhole (Indian wild
dog).
With over 250 recorded bird species, Bandhavgarh is a rewarding destination for birdwatchers. Notable sightings include crested serpent eagle, changeable hawk-eagle, white-rumped vulture, Indian pitta, Asian paradise flycatcher, and a variety of owls, woodpeckers, and migratory birds.
The park supports diverse reptile life such as Indian python, cobra, krait, monitor lizard, and mugger crocodile (in water bodies). Amphibians, including frogs and toads, thrive during the monsoon season, contributing to the park’s ecological balance.
Bandhavgarh lies within the tropical moist and dry deciduous forest zone, dominated by Sal (Shorea robusta). Bamboo, grasslands, climbers, and medicinal plants form an important part of the forest structure and support its rich wildlife.
In addition to tigers, Bandhavgarh is home to elusive species such as the Indian wolf, four-horned antelope (Chousingha), lesser adjutant stork, and rare vultures. The park is also known for individual tigers with distinctive markings and well-documented lineages.
The park features a mosaic of sal forests, open meadows, rocky hills, steep cliffs, and perennial streams. This varied terrain creates excellent wildlife habitats and provides dramatic natural backdrops for observation and photography.
As part of Project Tiger, Bandhavgarh plays a critical role in tiger conservation and prey-base management. Strict protection measures, habitat restoration, and regulated tourism have contributed to its long-term ecological success.
Bandhavgarh is easily accessible via Umaria (nearest railway station) and nearby airports such as Jabalpur and Khajuraho. Well-managed safari zones, open landscapes, and high wildlife visibility make it one of India’s top destinations for wildlife photography, especially for tigers and birds.
At the heart of the park lies the ancient Bandhavgarh Fort, believed to be over 2,000 years old. The region is rich in mythology, tribal heritage, and archaeological remains, blending natural history with cultural depth.
Inclusion
- Accommodation for 3 Nights / 4 Days
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee)
- 6 Exclusive Jeep Safaris
- Photography guidance and mentorship throughout
- Park entry fees and permits
- Local transfers from/to Bandhavgarh Lodge
Exclusion
- Airfare / Train / Road travel to Bandhavgarh
- Camera fee (if applicable by park authorities)
- Beverages, laundry, and personal expenses
- Travel insurance and medical expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Travel Date
- 23 - 25 April
Things to Carry
Camera
Lenses
Memory Cards
Batteries & Charger
Bean bag
Binocular
Winter Jacket
Sun Glasses
Sunscreen
Travelling
Bandhavgarh - By Road
Route
Jabalpur to Bandhavgarh
Start Point
Jabalpur
Airport
End Point
Jabalpur
Airport
Duration
3 Nights /
4 Days
Equipment Recommendations
Camera Bodies - Full-Frame DSLR or Mirrorless.
These cameras perform well in low light and provide excellent image quality and dynamic range.
Suggested Models:
● Canon EOS R5, R6, R3 or Full frame DSLRs
● Nikon Z9,Z8,Z7 II, Z6 III, or Full frame DSLRs
● Sony A7R IV, A1, A9
Lenses - Telephoto Zoom Lenses (for distant wildlife/Birds)
Essential for shooting animals or birds at a distance while maintaining detail and sharpness.
Suggested Options:
● Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM.
● Nikon 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 ED VR.
● Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS.
● Sigma or Tamron 150-600mm f/5-6.3 (for Canon, Nikon, and Sony).
Lenses - Prime Telephoto Lenses (for sharper images and faster aperture)
Ideal for low-light conditions or when you need a fast shutter speed.
Suggested Options:
Canon, Nikon, Sony 400mm f/2.8L
Lenses - For landscapes and environmental wildlife shots
For capturing the broader scene or large animals in their environment.
Suggested Options:
● Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM - Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S
● Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 GM
● 70-200mm f/2.8
Additional Accessories
1. Beanbags – For stability when using heavy telephoto lenses.
2. Rain Covers – For camera and lens protection in unpredictable weather.
3. Lens Cleaning Kits – To maintain clarity in outdoor environments.
4. Extra Batteries and Memory Cards
Itinerary
● Arrival at Jabalpur and scenic drive to Bandhavgarh
● Check-in, orientation, and introduction to the workshop team
● Pre-safari briefing on camera setup & safety
● First thrilling evening jungle safari
● Dinner, group discussion, and overnight stay
● Early morning safari with focus on tiger tracking & golden-light photography
● Breakfast and guided image review session
● Afternoon learning on wildlife behavior & advanced techniques
● Evening safari in a different park zone
● Dinner, discussions, and overnight stay
● Morning safari focusing on behavior, birdlife & storytelling frames
● Breakfast followed by photography review
● Post-processing & storytelling workshop session
● Evening safari capturing golden-hour wilderness
● Dinner, reflections, and overnight stay
● Final morning safari and photography refinement
● Breakfast & closing review session
● Farewell, check-out, and departure
● Recommended return flights after 4:00 PM
Learning during Wildlife Photography Workshops
As a wildlife photographer and mentor, I aim to provide a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience during my workshops.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key field learning opportunities participants can expect:
– Optimal use of manual modes for wildlife photography in varying light conditions.
– Techniques to freeze or blur motion effectively (e.g., capturing birds in flight).
– Balancing ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for sharp and detailed images.
– Rule of thirds, leading lines, and creative framing for impactful shots.
– Utilizing foreground, background, and negative space to create depth.
– Approaches to storytelling through composition, focusing on emotions and actions.
– Best practices for shooting during golden and blue hours.
– Managing harsh sunlight, shadows, and contrast in outdoor settings.
– Tips for safely handling cameras and lenses in rugged terrains.
– Cleaning and protecting equipment from dust, moisture, and unexpected weather.
– Proper use of tripods, monopods, and beanbags for stability.
– Techniques for capturing birds in flight or perched in dynamic poses.
– Using high shutter speeds and continuous autofocus for action shots.
– Identifying ideal habitats for rare and exotic bird species.
– Editing techniques using various apps like Photoshop & Lightroom.
– Understanding RAW image workflows and their importance in wildlife photography.
– Enhancing colors, contrasts, and clarity while maintaining authenticity.
Understanding Animal Behavior
– Learn to anticipate animal movements by observing body language, habitats, and behavioral patterns.
Our Camp
- Tour once booked are non-refundable
- We accept the package cost in inr only
- we have the very best drivers and guides who takes us inside the park
- For reservation you have to pay the advance amount
- Original id cards are must for entry inside the park
- Follow the route instruction given by the forest officials
- Noise producing equipment are not allowed inside the park
- ₹49,999 + 5%
GST Per Participant
Note:
- Cost allocated based on 4 participants in a Zypsy
- Costing is based on the availability of Resorts & tariffs.
- Costing may vary in case there is any mid term price change either by Resort/Park.
- 50% as booking amount
- 50% before 30 days of the Expedition.
Personalized Mentorship
Tailored guidance based on each participant's skill level and gear.
Exclusive Experiences
Access to unique wildlife destinations and rare opportunities for sightings.
Lifelong Learning
Practical skills that extend beyond the workshop into independent ventures
Embark on a visual journey with me, Gyana Mohanty, where every image is a doorway to the extraordinary. Let the magic of the wild unfold before your eyes!
