Explore Bandipur National Park Karnataka, India

Bandipur National Park in Karnataka offers one of India’s best jungle safari experiences due to its diverse wildlife. The park’s 874 square kilometers of land is home to several endangered plant and animal species. One of the most excellent features of this park is that it is shared and governed by two significant states, namely Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and is home to the most critical population of wild elephants in South Asia. Animal, adventure, wildlife, and photography enthusiasts will all enjoy the Bandipur Jungle Safari. Bandipur National Park showcases a stunning landscape hosting a rich diversity of wildlife, notably fostering the protection of Indian elephants. Its conservation efforts, serene beauty, and thriving ecosystems allure nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Quick Fact

Bandipur National Park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse flora and fauna. Apart from it, Bandipur boasts ancient ruins and temples, adding historical and archaeological significance to the park’s natural beauty.

History of Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park has a rich history spanning several decades that covers elements like wildlife conservation and protecting the region’s natural biodiversity. In 1931, the Maharaja of the kingdom of Mysore established the Bandipur Sanctuary. However, only 90 square kilometers of the region, known as Venugopala Wildlife Park, were utilized at the time. In 1973, around 800 square kilometers of the area were introduced to the Venugopala Wildlife Park and established as the Bandipur Tiger Reserve under the Tiger Project. Later, Bandipur National Park joined hands with its other neighboring parks, the Nagarhole National Park (643 square kilometers), Mudumalai National Park (320 square kilometers), and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (344 square kilometers), to form an essential part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, making the area the most significant wildlife protected zone.

Flora and Fauna of Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it one of the popular destinations for wildlife holidays in India. The park’s rich flora includes teak, sandalwood, rosewood, and various tropical trees and shrubs. Apart from it, the thriving fauna comprises a vibrant array of wildlife such as elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), sloth bears, dhole (Indian wild dog), spotted deer, sambar, and a myriad of bird species, including the crested serpent eagle, Indian roller, and the elusive great Indian hornbill. The park’s moist deciduous forests and grassy woodlands provide a crucial habitat for these species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Places to Visit Near Bandipur National Park

There are numerous attractions near Bandipur National Park worth your time and effort. These tourist attractions all have a high level of biodiversity, which can only increase your understanding of Indian flora and animals. These places are fantastic for weekend getaways and recreational activities.

Mudumalai National Park: Adjacent to Bandipur, known for diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and rich avian species
Gopalaswamy Betta: Scenic hill offering panoramic views of the Nilgiris, a serene spot with a temple atop the peak.
Mysore Palace: This magnificent royal residence showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture and opulent interiors, and a historical museum is a short drive away.
Ooty: Quaint Hill Station is famous for botanical gardens, boating at Ooty Lake, scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and tea estates.
Nagarhole National Park: A nearby wildlife sanctuary is renowned for its tiger population, gaur, elephants, and diverse birdlife in a dense forest.
Chamundi Hill: An iconic hilltop in Mysore featuring the Chamundeshwari Temple offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Safari in Bandipur National Park

Canter safari in Bandipur National Park

Canter safari in Bandipur National Park is a fantastic way to enjoy the sweet chirping of birds, smell the rich and natural flora aroma, and speak of the divine ambiance. It is a 20-seater open bus that operates in some of the safari zones in Bandipur. Canter is best for a large group of visitors who can choose this option instead of booking 2-3 jeeps. Canter Safari in Bandipur National Park should be booked well in advance. However, there is also an option for last-minute bookings. Both morning and evening canter safaris are available to visitors at Bandipur.

Canter Safari timings

Morning: 6:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Evening: 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Jeep safari in Bandipur National Park

The best way to experience as much of the wildlife of Bandipur Park is possible on a Jeep Safari. Beginning at the center, the forest department arranges a jeep safari and a bus safari in Bandipur. The Jeep Safari lasts roughly 90 minutes, and two times are available: morning and evening.

While many tigers are in the Bandipur forest, seeing one depends entirely on luck. Jungle Lodges is the only third party authorized to provide jeep safari in Bandipur National Park, aside from safari organized by the Forest Department.

Jeep Safari timings

Morning- 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Evening- 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Elephant safari in Bandipur National Park

As one of the greatest sites to visit in Kabini if you want to see other rare species on the prowl, in addition to elephants, Bandipur National Park and Nagarhole National Park offer a memorable elephant safari.

Jeeps and cars become unusable when you reach a certain point. Therefore, these safaris are unique because you must board elephants to travel over the rugged terrain these mighty elephants have mastered. Therefore, the monsoon, when nature is at its most abundant, and you may ride under a canopy of trees while feeling the breeze on your face while exploring the wilderness, is the most significant time to go on an elephant safari.

Elephant Safari timings

Morning- 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Evening- Not available

Bandipur Zones or Gate

There are 5 zones for a safari in Bandipur, and the wildlife of each zone is sustained by different rivers passing through the park. (Zone allocation is done on a random basis)

East Zone

The best place for birdwatching and carnivore animal sightings is the East Zone of the Bandipur National Park. The region’s dry deciduous and moist deciduous trees make the environment more captivating.

Central Zone

On a safari in Bandipur, you will come across the breathtaking and lovely Nugu River in the park’s center, where you may observe animals unwinding and relieving their thirst. Moreover, the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is the highest peak in this region. The most common visitors to the National Park are hikers and pilgrims. The Hindu Temple and Sandalwood Trees are this area’s main draws. Due to the several large water holes in this area, elephant sightings are persistent.

North West Zone

You will find the primary water source of the Bandipur National Park while moving towards the North West Zone, which is the River Kabini, where tourists can relish various activities like boating and spotting varied wildlife species during the summer season. The vegetation cover of the area is dominated by dry deciduous and tropical forests. And, during monsoon season, the place looks lovely and enchanting.

North Zone

Along with two streams, the River Kabini flows through this region. Hence, it is famous for its adventurous activities like boating in backwaters, fishing, and birdwatching, which are regular during summer when the river dries up.

South Zone

The river that runs through this area is the Moyar River. The south region is known for spotting squirrels, jungle cats, elephants, bison, and other wildlife. You can have lots of fun in the south zone, and the safari promises to give you unforgettable memories.

Gates of Bandipur National Park

The forest area is divided into 11 parts-

Gundre
N Begur
Moliyur
Ainur Marigudi
Moolehole
Hediyala
Omkar
Maddur
Gopalaswamy Betta
Bandipur
Gundaker

Out of these areas, only the Bandipur sub-area of Bandipur National Park offers safari excursions. However, the government intends to expand the park’s buffer zone to include the Bandipur sub-area to improve sightings.

Resorts in & around Bandipur National Park

Some travelers prefer camping inside the national park, but if you want to maintain your comfort, here’s a list of the finest resorts in Bandipur for that thrilling experience.

The Serai
Tusker Trail Resort
Country Club Wildlife Resort
The Windflower Jungle Resort & Spa
MC Resort
Bush Betta Wildlife Resort
Tiger Ranch Resort
Dhole’s Den Resort
Vana Vihar Resort

Read less

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN Kumarakom

Alleppey Houseboats

Alleppey is the houseboat capital of India. Here you will find houseboats that will even put a luxurious villa to disgrace. These moving houses attract tourists from all over the world. In Alleppey, you will find the famed backwaters of Kerala, which are spread across an expanse of 900 km. Locals traverse the length and breadth of these canals through longboats called Shikaras. This is the reason that Alleppey is also called as ' The Venice of East'. The backwaters are the interconnected network of the canals, lakes, lagoons, and rivers that can be best explored by the houseboats.

The Kerala Alleppey Houseboat tour is an experience that you shall cherish for the rest of your lives. In Alleppey, your eyes will be greeted with clear waters and lush green fields wherever you choose to look. Alleppey is a place that symbolizes Kerala. Clean unpolluted air which will cleanse your lungs, mesmerizing natural beauty, great food, and lovely people. While on your tour, you can explore the vivid colors of the serene nature and witness the picturesque views of Kerala. The houseboats will take you through the palm-fringed shores, exotic villages, and paddy fields while you sail through the network of canals. One can also get a deep insight into the rural lifestyle of the locals who are living nearby the shores of the shimmering backwaters. The balmy ambiance of the houseboat will give you a memory of a lifetime.

BEST TIME TO VISIT BANDIPUR NATIONAL PARK

SUMMER SEASON

(March – June)

The summer season in Bandipur National Park begins in March and continues until June. The temperature during this period varies from 32°C to 38°C. The weather is warm during the day and gets unbearable in the afternoon. However, you wouldn’t be disappointed if you ever stepped out, as you can spot many animals and birds. Various animals can be seen lazing around the national park, mostly near water bodies, and birds perched in the shade of dense green trees.

MONSOON SEASON

(July – September)

The monsoon season is also a great time to visit Bandipur National Park. The season begins in July and continues till September, with temperatures varying between 22°C to 28°C.

WINTER SEASON

(October – March)

Winters in Bandipur, from October to March, remain misty and full of dew as the temperature fluctuates between 15 to 18°C. The weather is highly pleasing and charming, as the whole place looks magical, covered in mist. The entire area is full of lush greenery because of the preceding monsoon season and breezy weather, making it easier to explore and enjoy the national park to the fullest.

HOW TO REACH BANDIPUR NATIONAL PARK

By Flight

By Train

By Road

The closest domestic airport is Mysore Airport. The nearest international airport is Kempegowda International Airport, about 217 km from Bandipur National Park, and it provides domestic flights from all major Indian cities.

International tourists who want to explore Bandipur National Park can book one of the famous luxury trains in India, The Golden Chariot. You can get on board and experience the best of Karnataka’s sojourn. You can easily reach Bandipur National Park by train and get glimpses of south India.

You can also drive from Mysore and Ooty to Bandipur to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and stunning topography. However, the best choice for residents of Coorg, Bangalore, Ooty, Coonoor, and Madikeri is thought to be traveling by road.

TIPS FOR BANDIPUR NATIONAL PARK

In this park, there are lots of monkeys. Therefore, it is best to keep your windows closed to prevent any potentially dangerous monkey behavior while traveling. Only for food, these monkeys attack you. Thus, keep your distance and refrain from eating when on safari.
Do not attempt to feed the animals here or even feed them. This includes any food that you drop as litter. Monkeys and other animals might use it to find you and steal your food.
The temperature is warm virtually all of the time. However, the temperature may drop throughout the evenings or early mornings if you are coming between October and January. Dress appropriately.
Avoid the monsoon season. During monsoon season, fewer animals can be found, and it would be challenging to move about because of the mess.

FAQs

Why is Bandipur National Park famous?

With seven large ungulate species (muntjac, chital, sambar, chousingha, gaur, wild pig, and elephant) and three substantial predatory carnivores (tiger, leopard, and dhole), the park is one of the wealthiest wildlife places in India.

Is Bandipur National Park worth visiting?

Bandipur, Karnataka, is regarded as one of the best tiger reserves in India, and for a good reason—the sites to see there are works of art from mother nature that are worth feasting your eyes on! It is well recognized for more than simply its 874 square miles of the national park.

What is the best time to visit Bandipur National Park?

The best time to visit this location is in the summer and is between March to May. Bandipur’s high temperature is 40°C. The park’s winters are still foggy and damp, but the temperature is still mild. Wintertime low temperatures range from 15 to 18°C.

What is the last entry time of Bandipur?

Bandipur National Park’s entry hours are 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Which safari is best in Bandipur?

The best area of Bandipur Safari for birdwatching and spotting carnivorous creatures is the east zone. The region’s dry and damp deciduous trees add to the allure of the surroundings.