The park is open from October to June and closes completely during the monsoon (July to September) when the roads become impassable. February to May is the best period for tiger sightings: the dry season concentrates animals around the remaining waterholes, and the trees lose their leaves, making it easier to spot wildlife. Temperatures in April and May are fierce — above 40°C at midday — but tigers are more visible, and this is when the most dramatic encounters happen.
October and November offer a gentler introduction: the forest is green after the rains, bird life is prolific, and the heat is manageable. December and January are cool (it can drop to 5°C overnight near Tala), and the park is less busy than in peak season. Book safaris well in advance for February through April — this is when Bandhavgarh attracts the most visitors.