A variety of flora, fauna, outstanding scenic locations and warm and friendly people can make for an attractive tourist destination. One such heavenly destination is the Bandipur National Park, which is famous for its diverse flora and fauna.
The Bandipur National Park lies at the heart of an extended forest at the meeting point of the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Hills. Located in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, Bandipur became one of India’s first Tiger Reserves and in 1974, under the Wildlife Protection Act, Bandipur got the status of a National Park. Bandipur National Park is often visited. Thanks to its proximity to the metro hub of Bangalore.
Nature at its Best at Bandipur
Apart from wildlife, the park also houses hundreds of unique types of flora and fauna and is famous for its sandalwood trees. The natural rivers of Kabini, Moyar, and the Nagur flowing through the National Park add to its beauty. If you planning a picnic or a short trip, then Bandipur is the perfect spot, as there are many things one can look forward to, such as fishing, bird watching, boating, and trekking.
Tourists can visit this beautiful destination all year round. If you want to watch the animals at the watering holes, then come here during the summer months from March to May. During monsoons, between June and October, the Bandipur National Park blooms with greenery all around.
The Bandipur National Park houses around 70 tigers and over 3,000 Asian elephants, along with dholes, leopards, sloth bears, and gaurs. The park also has over 200 species of birds. The Bandipur National Park is covered with a mix of deciduous forests and evergreen forests.
Bandipur Local Information
There is a certain entry fee in the Bandipur National Park, the rates for which vary for Indian and foreign nationals. Private vehicles are not allowed inside the national part.
They can, however, go to the park in the forest department jeeps and vans. The elephant rides are also organized by the Forest Department for an hour or more. Rain is accompanied by a light breeze; so, it is useless to carry umbrellas. Raincoats are the best bet in the park during the rainy season.
Places to See and Things to Do Near Bandipur
Gopalaswamy Betta: One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Bandipur National Park is Gopalaswamy Betta, which is the highest peak here and surrounded by wooded areas, and also one can get beautiful views of the valley. A temple dedicated to Lord Venugopala Swamy, one of the incarnations of the Hindu god Krishna, is located here, which makes this place popular. Trek to the temple to watch the sunrise and sunset.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary: This is another wonderful location that must be visited. This wildlife sanctuary is located just 12 km to the south of the Bandipur National Park and provides the perfect atmosphere for a holiday close to nature.
How to Reach Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is on Mysore-Ooty highway and is well connected by road. People can get here either by the State Transport buses, buses of private tour operators or even by a taxi. The nearest railway station is Mysore which is 65 kilometres and the nearest airport is in Bangalore almost 204 kilometres from the park.
Away from the hustle bustle of city life, the Bandipur National Park is a great place to relax. Nature is truly at its best here.
Also See:
- Nugu Dam, Heggadadevana Kote, Mysore
- National Parks in and around Bangalore
- Bird Sanctuaries in and around Bangalore
- Evolve Back Resort, Kabini
- Sanctuaries in Karnataka
- About Bandipur
- Top 10 Wildlife Documentary In Karnataka