Bandipur National Park - Premier Tiger Reserve in Karnataka

Hassan, KarnatakaWILDLIFE

A premier tiger reserve in Karnataka, famous for its guided wildlife safaris and large populations of elephants, tigers, and other native species.

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WILDLIFE

Info

Half day (3-4 hours)

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Bandipur National Park is a prominent wildlife sanctuary in southern India and a key part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Established as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1974, it covers an area of over 874 square kilometers. The park's landscape is a mix of deciduous forests, scrublands, and grassy woodlands, crisscrossed by the Kabini and Moyar rivers, which provide a vital water source for its inhabitants. Visitors primarily come here for the wildlife safari experience, offered in buses and jeeps, providing opportunities to see a wide range of animals in their natural environment. The park is home to a significant population of Royal Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, gaurs (Indian bison), leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer like chital and sambar. The atmosphere is one of raw nature, where the sounds of the forest replace city noise. The experience is focused on patient observation and appreciating the untamed beauty of the wilderness.

Why This Place is Special

• One of India's original Project Tiger reserves
• High density of Royal Bengal Tigers
• Large herds of Asiatic elephants
• Guided jeep and bus safaris
• Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
• Diverse birdlife with over 200 species
• Sightings of gaur, sambar deer, and leopards

Ideal For

Nature loversWildlife enthusiastsPhotographersFamiliesAdventure seekersCouplesGroups

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Information center
• Safari booking counter
• Souvenir shops
• Limited food stalls near the reception area
• Seating areas

Visitor Tips

• Book your safari online well in advance, as slots fill up quickly, especially for jeeps.
• Visit during the early morning (6:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:30 PM) safaris for the best chance of animal sightings.
• Wear neutral-colored clothing like brown, green, or beige to blend in with the surroundings and avoid disturbing the animals.
• Carry binoculars for better viewing, a good camera with a zoom lens, and a water bottle.
• Avoid weekends and national holidays to experience fewer crowds and a more peaceful safari.
• Maintain complete silence during the safari to maximize chances of spotting shy animals.
• During winter months (December-January), carry a light jacket or shawl as morning safaris can be very chilly.
• Do not carry any food items inside the park, as feeding animals is strictly prohibited and dangerous.

Rules & Restrictions

• Do not get down from the safari vehicle under any circumstances.
• Strictly no feeding of wild animals.
• Maintain silence
• loud noises are prohibited.
• Plastic bags and bottles are discouraged and may be banned.
• Smoking and consumption of alcohol are strictly forbidden.
• Private vehicles are not allowed inside the core safari zones.
• Do not use flash photography as it can startle the animals.

Safety Information

• Always follow the instructions of your safari guide and driver.
• Stay inside the vehicle at all times during the safari.
• Do not provoke animals by making loud noises or sudden movements.
• Keep a safe distance from animals and do not attempt to touch them.
• The highway through the forest is closed at night (9 PM to 6 AM)
• plan your travel accordingly.
• Mobile network coverage is poor to non-existent inside the park.
• Carry basic first-aid supplies and any personal medications.

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Location & Address

Bandipur, Chamarajanagar District, Gundlupet Taluk, Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Hassan, Karnataka, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best period to visit is from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the dry vegetation makes wildlife sightings easier. The summer months of April and May can get hot, but are also excellent for spotting animals as they gather near water sources. The monsoon season, from June to September, sees heavy rainfall, and the park may be partially or fully closed. Animal sightings are also less frequent due to the dense foliage.
Peak Crowd: October-January, April-May, long weekends, and public holidays like Diwali and Christmas.
Moderate Crowd: February-March, and most weekends throughout the year.
Low Crowd: Weekdays during the monsoon season (July-September), if the park is open.

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Mysore Airport (MYS), about 80 km away. The closest major international airport is Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), around 220 km away (5-6 hours by car).

Train

Mysuru Junction (MYS) is the nearest major railway station, approximately 80 km away. It is well-connected to Bengaluru, Chennai, and other cities. You can hire a taxi from the station to reach Bandipur.

Road

Bandipur is located on the Mysuru-Ooty Highway (NH 766). It's an 80 km drive from Mysuru (about 2 hours) and 220 km from Bengaluru (about 5 hours). Regular state-run and private buses ply between Mysuru and Ooty, stopping at Bandipur.

Local Transport

There is no local transport within the park. Reaching the park entrance requires a private car or a hired taxi. For exploring the park, you must use the official safari vehicles organized by the Forest Department.