A Complete Guide To Visiting Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is a very famous wildlife park and tiger reserve in the dense forest regions of the south Indian state of Karnataka. The 912 square km National park located amidst the picturesque surroundings has Karnatakas Nagarahole to its Northwest, Kerala’s Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to its Southwest and Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary to its South. The national park is also flanked by three prominent rivers: river Kabini in the north, Moyar in the south and Nugu River running through the park.

To Know More Lets Get Back In History

Initially the park was a hunting ground of the Maharajas, subsequently adjacent reserve forest areas were added to the reserve and was named as Bandipur National Park. The national park was a breeding ground for Tigers and Elephants, hence this reserve was identified as one of the thirty reserves across the country to save them. Apart from Tigers and Elephants other animals like Panther, Sambar, Wild Boar, sloth bear, Jackal, Gaur, langu, and mouse Deer can be spotted here. The rich collection of flora and fauna has earned Bandipur National Park the tag of being one the best national parks of India. If you are a naturalist who gets easily drawn towards wildlife and nature, then a visit to the Bandipur National Park just cannot be missed. 

Weather In Bandipur National Park

Summer Season (March – June) – Temperature in Bandipur National Park begins to rise from the month of March and continues to peak till the end of June. The temperature during this time of the year is very hot. Maximum temperature can go as high as 38°C. Chances of spotting animals is high as the park dwellers come out in search of water and food during this time.

Monsoon Season (July – September) – In Bandipur monsoon begins in July and goes on till September. Accessibility to certain areas of the park is limited as the terrains get slippery due to heavy rains. The forest looks extravagantly rich with different shades of green. Average temperature expected during this time is between 22°C-28°C.

Winter Season (October – February) – It is during the month of October when winter touches the grounds of Bandipur National Park. With the onset of winter, the entire region becomes quite cold and wears a misty look. Temperature can drop down to as low as 15°C during the winter months. Wildlife can be easily spotted during this time of the year.

How To Get To Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park in Karnataka is well connected by air, rail and road. Here’s a quick look into how to reach the National Park by each of the three modes of transportation.

By Air – One can either take a plane to Coimbatore or Mysore airport which is just 84 km away from the park or fly to Bangalore international airport which is 255 km away. After reaching the airport, rent a car or take the local bus to reach Bandipur.

By Train – Getting to Mysore railway station is very easy as Mysore is connected with a lot of cities and states through railways. Once at the Mysore railway station take a connecting train to Chamarajanagar which is 48 km away from Bandipur. You can also take a bus or book a cab from Mysore rail station to reach Bandipur.

By Road – Several private and government run buses from all major cities of Karnataka will take you to Bandipur. You can also hire cabs or drive your own car. Please make sure to avoid late night and early morning travel as movement of vehicles are restricted in the forest range during this time.

Distance between Bandipur National Park and few nearby cities are as below:

Mysore: 80 km, Ooty: 80 km, Wayanad: 80 km, Kabini: 94 km, Calicut: 147 km, Coorg: 200 km, Bangalore: 220 km, Coimbatore: 126 km

Suggested Reads: Famous Wildlife Sanctuaries And National Parks In Karnataka

Things To Do In Bandipur National Park

Apart from spotting the tigers and elephants, there are many interesting things to do in the National Park. Here are some of the must dos. 

Go On A Jungle Safari

When it comes to safari in Bandipur National Park there are a variety of options. One can either choose between a Bus, Jeep or Elephant safari. Bus can accommodate anywhere between 14 to 25 people and takes about 45 minutes to complete. For a more personalized experience opt for the jeep safari that will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Next is the elephant safari that stretches for approximately 20 minutes. As Bandipur is one of the best places to spot wild animals in their natural habitat, safari is a must do activity while here.

Enjoy Camping Within The Wild

Set up a tent around the Bandipur National Park to enjoy camping with friends and family. Keep your camera ready to capture the amazing flora and fauna around. However before doing so make sure you take prior permission from concerned authorities.

Trek For Some Breathtaking Views

Trekking too needs prior permission from the Karnataka Forest Department but all the efforts put in is completely worthwhile. Trekking through the different segments of the reserve will take you through lakes, rivers, waterfalls and if lucky, can spot some animals too. All treks have to be mandatorily accompanied by a guide. 

Bird Watching To Spot Rare Species

Over 200 spectacular species of birds, both local and migratory ones are sure to delight tourists. This is a heaven for birdwatchers. The rare species are a little difficult to find but birds like peafowl, woodpeckers, Indian Pitta, hawk eagles, kingfishers, ospreys can be easily spotted. 

Also Read: The Mighty Five Must Visit Utah National Parks

Concluding Thoughts

Always follow the guidelines and stick to your guide’s instructions. Drinking, smoking and campfires are strictly prohibited inside the park. Show some respect to the animals by not creating nuisance and spoiling their habitat. With all the required information at hand, make sure to implement them while visiting Bandipur National Park and tiger reserve for a fascinating experience. 

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