Flora of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
The flora of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve forms the lush green foundation that supports its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests, the reserve is richly carpeted with extensive Sal (Shorea robusta) forests, which cover the majority of its terrain. These tall, sturdy trees create dense canopies that keep the forest cool and shaded, offering ideal habitats for a variety of animals and birds. Alongside sal, large patches of bamboo, tendu, ber, and khair flourish, adding layers of texture and diversity to the woodland.
Bandhavgarh’s vegetation varies beautifully with its topography. The valleys and low-lying areas are filled with thick sal belts, while the higher hill slopes feature mixed deciduous forests with species like arjun, saja, palash, dhaora, mahua, and jamun. The vibrant palash, known as the “Flame of the Forest,” paints the landscape orange during spring, while mahua blooms bring an aromatic charm and are culturally significant to local communities. Vast grasslands, known locally as maidans, stretch across former settlement areas and open meadows—these grassy expanses are vital grazing grounds for herbivores like chital and sambar.
The reserve also contains numerous water bodies, streams, and seasonal nallahs that nourish rich riverine vegetation. Plants like banyan, peepal, amaltas, and kadam flourish near these water sources, creating pockets of dense shade and biodiversity. This blend of sal forests, mixed woodlands, bamboo clumps, and vibrant meadows makes Bandhavgarh not only visually stunning but also ecologically balanced. Its flora forms the lifeline of the ecosystem, supporting the thriving populations of tigers, leopards, birds, and countless other species that call Bandhavgarh home.
