About Bandipur
Love watching animals in the wild? Come and enjoy the safari with your family and friends. Leave the booking worries to us—we’ll take care of it!
Bandipur National Park, or Bandipur Tiger Reserve, is a prominent and beautiful national park in India situated in Karnataka. It is known as the best place to spot the bravest predators of the wild—Bengal Tigers—and the largest land-living animals—Indian Elephants. Set amidst the stunning and towing Western Ghats mountains on the Mysore-Ooty highway, Karnataka, Bandipur National Park spans over an area of 874.2 km. It is one of the biggest biosphere reserves in India, known as the ‘Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.’ Previously a hunting ground, it became a tiger reserve during British rule and got the title of Title Reserve in 1974.
The scenic beauty of the park, along with the massive variety of wildlife in Bandipur National Park, makes it one of the best national parks of Karnataka. From mammals to reptiles to amphibians to several bird species, you will find numerous varieties of wildlife here. Moreover, it is also home to many endangered species of reptiles and birds, like the python and green pigeon.
Apart from this, the Bandipur National Park location is ideal for a quick weekend getaway from many nearby cities like Mangalore, Bangalore, Mysore, and more. This makes it even more prominent amongst tourists looking for a quick getaway in nature. The most appealing part about the national park is the wildlife safari here running in the morning and late afternoon.
History of Bandipur National Park
Once a hunting refuge of the Mysore Kingdom’s Maharaja, as mentioned above, Bandipur National Park is now the most well-known national park in Karnataka. Under the rule of the Britishers, it was declared a national park. But in 1974, under the ‘Project Tiger’ initiative, it became the best-managed tiger reserve in Karnataka, India. The reserve is not just home to tigers but also a massive number of wild elephants, the largest protected area in South India. The forest, situated along Mysore-Ooty roads, is a well-traveled route drawing many tourists every year. Tigers and elephants are found in great numbers here.
Flora of Bandipur National Park
The rich flora and fauna of Bandipur National Park appeals to tourists globally. The park’s landscape is home to many species of sandalwood, rosewood, teak, Indian Kino tree, clumping bamboo, giant clumping bamboo, and Indian laurel. Apart from these, you will also see many flowering plants here, like black myrobalan, kadam tree, black cutuch, indigo berry, and more. The abundance of rainfall here is the reason for such beautiful and widespread flora.
Fauna of Bandipur National Park
Wildlife in Bandipur National Park is what attracts most tourists here. The rich landscape of the park is home not to just the Bengal Tiger, 173 in total as per the last survey. It is also home to other animals like Asian elephants, sloth bears, golden jackals, dholes, four-horned antelope, and more. The easiest mammals to spot here include Indian giant squirrels, elephants, grey langurs, and chitals. The bird species here are over 200, including the most beautiful drongos, peafowl, red headed vultures, crested serpent eagles, kingfishers, hawk eagles, and ospreys. This makes birdwatching quite a leisure activity here. If you love reptiles, Bandipur National Park is also home to many reptiles like Indian rock pythons, flying lizards, and monitor lizards. Indian chameleon, vipers, spectacled cobra, and more. You will also find many arthropods here, like butterflies (common rose, common jay, crimson rose, and more), ant species, and dung beetles. The variety of wildlife here is the reason Bandipur National Park deserves the title of one of the best national parks in Karnataka and India.
Location and Geography of Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park location is between the Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts, and it is split between the Gundlupet taluk, Chamarajanagar, and H.D. Kote and Nanjangud taluks, Mysore. The coordinates of the park are 75° 12′ 17″ E to 76° 51′ 32″ E and 11° 35′ 34″ N to 11° 57′ 02″ N. The park’s elevation ranges from 680 meters (2,230 feet) to 1,454 meters (4,770 feet).
Bandipur National Park is surrounded by the Kabini River, north of the park, and Moyar, south of the park. Moreover, the Nagu River runs through the park. It is spread over an area of approximately 874 square km. It is surrounded by the Deccan plateau and western ghat’s conjunction. The geographical diversity ranging from moist evergreen habitats to dry deciduous forests contributes to the varied and rich ecosystem.
Conservation Efforts and Initiatives
Bandipur National Park is known for its conservation initiatives in India. It was established as part of the conservation project tiger to preserve and increase the number of predators. Other projects were created aiming to preserve the flora and fauna. The anti-poaching measures contribute to the success of the park in wildlife conservation. It is a critical refuge for threatened and endangered species. Conservation initiatives: NGOs and officials work hard to protect the biodiversity of the park.
However, there are still many challenges faced by Bandipur National Park. The human-wildlife conflict here, especially due to the elephants going into agricultural areas, poses severe issues to them, the people, and the farms. Moreover, the pressure of tourism and habitat fragmentation affects the ecosystem balance, threatening it. Thus, initiatives like sustainable tourism practices are in place, as they allow tourists to enjoy Bandipur without causing any harm to the natural beauty of the park.
Visitor Information for Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park, situated in the western Ghats foothills, is known as the testament to the commitment of the government of India to preserve the natural heritage. The beautiful reserve covers an extensive area of diverse ecosystems and lush forests. It is known for the mesmerising landscapes and biodiversity. The flora and fauna of Bandipur National Park is the key attraction here, especially the elephants and tigers here. The safari here is known for spotting the elusive leopards, rare to see. Only 220 km from Bangalore, 286 km from Mangalore, and just 73 km from Mysore, it is a perfect nature retreat for all. If you are interested in witnessing all this diverse wildlife, here is all the information you should know for having a smooth visit.
Entry Fees and Timings
The entry fee for Bandipur National Park is INR 250 per head. Kindly note that the entrance charges do not include charges for safari rides.
The timings for the national park are 6-8 am and 2:30-4:30 pm every Monday to Sunday.
Safari and Tour Options
Bandipur safari is a well-rewarding option to enjoy wildlife sightings. One of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in South India with diverse flora and fauna. Bandipur Safari is known for maximum sightings of tigers. Apart from tigers, the other animals you will spot include sloth bears, leopards, wild dogs, rare birds, barking deer, elephants, reptiles, and more. To witness the wildlife in Bandipur National Park, the safari options include jeep and van. Below are a few more details about the same:
Safari Type | Timings | Price |
Jeep Safari | Morning: 6:30 – 8:30 am 8:30 – 10:30 am Evening: 2:30 – 4:30 pm 4:30 – 6:30 pm | INR 8,500 (Upto 3 pax). INR 10,000 (Upto 5 pax) INR 12,000 (Upto 8 pax) |
Bus Safari | Morning: 6:15 am to 7: 45 pm 7: 45 am to 9:30 am Evening: 2:30 pm to 4 pm 4 pm to 5:30 pm 5 pm to 6:30 pm | INR 850/ seat (Indian) INR 2,500/ seat (Foreign nationals) |
Canter Safari | Morning: 6 am to 9 am Evening: 3 pm to 6 pm. | INR 3,500/seat (Indian) INR 4,700/seat (Foreign nationals) |
Best Time to Visit
The park remains open throughout the year; however, if you want to know the best time for visiting Bandipur National Park is between October and March. The weather is pleasant during this time, and wildlife is frequent as the cooler months make spotting the animals easier. Here is everything you need to know about the best time to visit Bandipur National Park.
- Wildlife Spotting: October to Match are the best months for visiting the park as the weather is pleasant. Since the weather is cool, you will spot animals lying around the sun, making it an ideal time for visiting Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
- Peak season: The cooler months are the peak season to come here and spotting wildlife is easier too. The only disadvantage is that you will have to be quick to book the resorts and safaris online as it is the peak season.
You can head to Bandipur National Park throughout the year but considering the above points, do head out here between October to March.
Nearby Attractions and Places of Interest
Sultan Bathery: 21.5 km from Bandipur National Park, it is a known tourist attraction in Kerala. It was known as Ganapathi Vattam before, named after Tipu Sultan, who used this place to stock their artillery inside the Jain temple during the Malabar region invasion. When here, ensure you head to Edakkal Caves.
Kanakgiri Kshetra: It is 42.8 km from Bandipur and the Kanakgiri temple honouring Jain Parshwanatha in Kanakgiri, Chamarajanagar. The ancient Jain temple is situated atop the hill with a fleet of stairs leading to the shrine’s entrance. The rumour has it that the temple was built by Western Ganga Dynasty rules during the 5th and 6th centuries.
Gopalaswamy Betta: The highest point of the stunning Bandipur National Park, it is known as HImavad Gopalaswamy Betta. The temple is known for having a stunning statue of Lord Krishna posing as a shepherd playing the flute, or venugopala, with cows nearby. You will also see many wild elephants nearby.
Masinagudi: As you head towards Ooty on the Mysore-Ooty highway, you will come across Massinagudi. It is one of the top attractions here, including Murugan Malai, Theppakadu elephant camp, and Maravakandy Dam. It is 12.8 km away from the park.
How to Reach Bandipur?
- By air: Mysore airport is only 75 km away from the national park, and another nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, 165 km away. Well-connected to multiple India cities, you can take a cab or bus from here to reach the park.
- By rail: Mysore Junction, 80 km away from the national park, is the nearest railway station. Another close-by station is Nanjangud railway station, 55 km away. Take a shared taxi or bus from here.
- By road: Bandipur has well-maintained road networks, which you can access from Mysore, Bangalore, and Ooty.
FAQ’s About Bandipur (Bandipur National Park)
Why is Bandipur National Park famous?
Bandipur National Park is famous for its staggering variety of flora and fauna. The national park has massive wildlife, a mix of reptiles, birds, insects, and mammals. In total, there are 70 animal species, including elephants, leopards, tigers, and sloth bears. The Bengal Tiger and Indian Elephant are probably the most highly celebrated mammals here. The variety of birds here includes 200 species of birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Watching the animals in their natural habitat up close is a great experience, making the tiger reserve famous amongst nature, wildlife, and adventure enthusiasts.
Where is Bandipur National Park located?
The Bandipur Tiger Reserve is located in the contiguous landscape spread in two districts of Southern Karnataka, namely Chamarajanagar (Gundlupet Taluk) and Mysore (Nanjangud and H.D. Kote Taluks). It is a unique landmass located near the tri-junction area of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu states. The coordinates of the park include North Latitudes 110 35’ 34” and 110 55’ 02” and between Karnataka’s state East Longitudes 760 12’ 17” and 760 51’ 32”. It is part of the western Ghats tiger landscape consisting of Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mudumalai. The south-eastern portion of the park is connected to the nearby tiger landscape of M.M. Hills and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary via the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve and BRT Tiger Reserve.
How to reach from Bangalore to Bandipur?
Bandipur National Park is 200 km from Bangalore. The drive from Bandipur to Bangalore takes almost 5-6 hours, and you pass through NH44. There are a few ways to reach the park. You can take a train to the nearest railway station—Mysore, 80 km from Bangalore—and drive the rest of the way or take a bus. Or you can drive or take a taxi or a bus directly from Bangalore.
How can I book a safari in Bandipur National Park?
There are three types of safari available in Bandipur National Park: Jeep, camper, and bus. To book any of these safaris, you can go to the Karnataka Forest Department website or by heading to the park’s booking office. Moreover, you can book it through the vendor portal site, offering many packages. Lastly, you can book the safari from the many lodges and resorts near the park, as they offer safari service too, and you should book them in advance, especially in the peak season.
Is Bandipur National Park part of Project Tiger?
Yes, Bandipur National Park was established as part of the Project Tiger initiative in India. It was launched in 1974 by the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, to conserve tigers and their natural habitats. The park and the many conservation efforts by the officials play an important role in conserving tigers and other species in the territory. Due to the effort, the tiger population has increased to 173 here.
What animals can be seen in Bandipur National Park?
The wildlife in Bandipur National Park is home to many animals, including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, Indian bison, wild boars, deer species, leopards, spotted deer, and more. Apart from this, you will also come across a variety of reptile species here, like the giant flying lizard, Indian rock python, vipers, and more. Also, there are almost 200 species of birds here and even anthropoids and butterflies to keep you engaged.
Are there tigers in Bandipur National Park?
Yes, tigers are the main attraction in Bandipur National Park. The park is part of the Project Tiger Initiative, providing an important habitat for tigers in the region. The park started with 12–14 numbers of tigers; now the number of tigers is 173 as per the last survey.
What birds are commonly spotted in Bandipur?
There are many varieties of birds in Bandipur, including the Indian peafowl, spotted eagle, crested serpent eagle, Malabar trojan, woodpeckers, kingfishers, crested honey buzzard, and blue peafowl. The diverse ecosystem of the park supports a rich avian population, especially in the forested area.
Is Bandipur National Park safe for wildlife tourism?
Yes, Bandipur National Park is safe for wildlife tourism enthusiasts. The well-maintained safaris and experienced guides make the experience of spotting the wildlife and exploring the park a memorable experience. The management of the park ensures the safety of both tourists and wildlife.
What are the safari options available in Bandipur?
Bandipur offers jeep safaris, which are the most popular way to explore the park. These safaris can be either morning or evening rides. The park also offers a limited number of bus safaris. Private jeep safaris with expert naturalist guides are available for a more personalised experience.
Can I go on a Jeep safari in Bandipur National Park?
Yes, Jeep safaris are one of the best ways to explore Bandipur National Park. These safaris are available in the morning and evening and provide a chance to see tigers, elephants, and other wildlife up close. The safari vehicles are driven by experienced guides who offer insightful commentary.
Is there an option for a guided walking tour?
Currently, there are no walking tours offered in Bandipur National Park, as walking in the park can be dangerous due to the presence of large predators. Wildlife viewing is conducted mainly through jeep safaris for safety and to minimise disturbance to the animals.
What is the best time for wildlife sightings in Bandipur?
The best time for wildlife sightings in Bandipur is during the dry months, from March to June, when animals gather around water sources. However, the peak tourist season is from October to April, with cooler temperatures and better visibility. Early morning and late evening safaris increase the chances of sightings.
Can children join the safaris in Bandipur?
Yes, children are allowed to join safaris in Bandipur, provided they are accompanied by adults. However, safety guidelines must be followed strictly, and parents should ensure their children are well-behaved to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Some safaris may have age restrictions, so it’s best to confirm in advance.
Are private vehicles allowed inside Bandipur National Park?
Private vehicles are not allowed inside Bandipur National Park to minimise the impact on wildlife. Visitors must use the official safari vehicles, which are driven by trained guides and designed to adhere to the park’s conservation guidelines.
Is it necessary to book safaris in advance?
It is recommended to book the wildlife safari in advance, as it allows you to enjoy the peak season without worrying about standing in queues. Also, during peak season, the safari slots are limited, so booking the slots earlier on makes your safari enjoyable. Moreover, you can book using Karnataka’s Forest Department website, a vendor portal, or through any lodge recommendation.
Are there specific rules to follow in Bandipur National Park?
Visitors have to follow a few specific rules, like:
- Maintaining silence on your wildlife safari ride to ensure no animals are disturbed.
- Feeding animals is also prohibited.
- Doing flash photography is also not allowed.
- Camping is not allowed; you can book lodges and resorts to stay near the park and enjoy.
Is photography allowed during the safari?
Yes, taking photos during safari rides in Bandipur National Park is allowed. However, you have to keep in mind that flash photography is not allowed. The reason for the same is that it disturbs the wildlife, so it is best to bring a camera with a zoom lens ideal for capturing distant wildlife even from a distance.
What are some must-see spots within Bandipur National Park?
Some of the best spots in Bandipur include Gopalaswamy Betta, the highest point of the park, offering the best views. Bandipur Reservoir is also a great place to head to where you can enjoy the rich wildlife. Lastly, the landscape around Kabini River is always a great idea to head to.
Is camping allowed in Bandipur National Park?
No, camping is not permitted inside Bandipur National Park. The park follows strict laws about heading to camp here as it disturbs the conservation and wildlife efforts. To preserve the wildlife, you will have to adhere to this rule. Therefore, you can book an eco-friendly resort and lodge near the park, letting you enjoy the nature and beauty of the park. This arrangement lets you enjoy the park without disturbing the ecosystem here.
Love watching animals in the wild? Come and enjoy the safari with your family and friends. Leave the booking worries to us—we’ll take care of everything!