The buffer zone is considered to be an area that surrounds the core area, thereby helping in the dispersal of wild animals. Moreover, it is also used as a multi-use area where human habitation as well as other activities is strictly prohibited in a regulated manner. There are three buffer zones in Bandhavgarh National Park. They are Dhamokhar, Johila (Kalwa), and Panpatha (Pachpedi).
Buffer zones are mainly not allowed for safaris as it remains in close association with some villages, farmlands, scrub forests, grasslands as well as dense vegetation. However, it is considered to be an ideal habitat for four-horned antelope, chinkara, wolf, and blue bull.
People strongly believe that tigers are spotted only in the core zones of Bandhavgarh National Park. Tigers being highly territorial cats have attained the capacity to establish their domain in the prime locations of the park. The sub-adults start to establish their territories right from the age of 2-3 years and decide to content themselves in buffer or territorial forests.
These territorial cats have successfully expanded their population to a great extent due to the appropriate amount of protection received from forest officials. All forest pockets are known to have their own resident tigers today and many tigers have also moved to lesser-known sanctuaries so that they can populate these areas and increase their territory. It is to be noted that these areas comprise a limited prey base that can affect the diet of the tigers.
Buffer zone remains accessible to visitors throughout the year and permissions are also granted for night safari (7 pm to 9:30 pm). During this period, apart from the majestic Indian tiger, other nocturnal gems are also spotted.
