How to reach Bandhavgarh from Orchha?

Take a train to Umaria and then hire a taxi to the park entrance.

Is there a direct bus?

No, buses are not recommended for this long distance.

What is the best train?

The Mahakoshal Express is a reliable option for this route.

How far is Umaria from the park?

It is approximately 30 kilometers from the main gate.

Are there ATMs in Umaria?

Yes, there are several ATMs in the main town area.

Orchha

Umaria

Train Driving

Orchha to Umaria

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from the historic town of Orchha to Umaria, the gateway to Bandhavgarh National Park, covers roughly 400 kilometers. The most efficient way is to reach Jhansi Junction and board a train heading toward Katni or Umaria. If you prefer driving, the route takes you through scenic stretches of the Bundelkhand region. The journey typically takes 8 to 10 hours. Umaria is a major transit point for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the tiger reserves.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 400 km; straight-line air distance is 330 km.

Fastest Way

Driving takes 8 hours, offering a direct route without station transfers.

Cheapest Way

Train in Sleeper class is the most economical option.

Compare Orchha to Umaria Routes

	Train Connecting via Jhansi	Driving Direct
Duration	9 hours	8 hours
Avg Price	400 - 1200 INR	3000 - 4500 INR
Operator	Mahakoshal Express	Private Taxi
Route	Jhansi Junction to Umaria Station	NH 34 and NH 43
Tip	Check train availability to Katni if direct trains to Umaria are sold out.	The roads are generally well-maintained but watch for heavy truck traffic.

Travel Tips

Safari Booking
If visiting Bandhavgarh, book your safari permits online weeks in advance.
Train Choice
Opt for overnight trains to save on accommodation costs.
Hydration
Carry sufficient water, especially during the summer months.
Luggage
Travel light to make transfers between transport modes easier.
Local Transport
Use pre-paid auto-rickshaws at the station to avoid overcharging.

Safety Tips

Wildlife Safety
Never step out of your vehicle inside the forest buffer zones.
Night Driving
Avoid driving through forest roads at night due to wildlife movement.
Personal Safety
Keep your emergency contacts updated and accessible.
Scams
Ignore touts at the railway station offering cheap hotel deals.