Bandipur National Park is popular for the population of tigers presents it.This sanctuary offers endangered animals with the best available natural habitat to survive.The magnificent Nilgiri Mountains forms the background and river Kabini, Mavinahall, Nugu and Moyar and 12 of their seasonal tributaries slither through the park area.Bandipur National Park is considered as one of the most protected areas present within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.It is found to be an International Biosphere Reserve located in the Western Ghats.The park is bounded by Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary,Nagarhole National Park and the Mudumalai National Park.
Entry Fee & Timings
Visiting Hours – 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM(safari timings)
Entry fee for Indians : 300 Rs.(including safari charges)
Entry Fee for Foreigners : 1500 Rs.(including safari charges)
Activities
Elephant Ride
The elephant ride offers unique experience to visitors at Bandipur.The duration of Elephant ride is 20 mins and it’s not a safari. The ride takes tourists around the park on an elephant. The Forest Department also organizes elephant rides of about an hour (or more) each on request, which takes you deeper into the forest.
Entry Fee & Timings
Timings: 10 AM-11 AM. Fee: Rs. 50 per head.
Mini-bus Safari
Mini Bus Safari is the simplest way to explore Bandipur National Park.The park organizes 45 minute bus safari and the price is Rs. 75 per head.Most of the common wildlife can be seen at close range.The first and last safaris offer the best possible views of wildlife.The bus safaris are crowded during weekends & holiday seasons.
Entry Fee & Timings
Safari Timings: 6:30 to 9:30 AM & 3:30 to 6:30 PM
Safari Cost (60 mins): Rs. 300 per person
Jeep Safari
The private jeep carries an experienced guide who helps tourists in spotting and identifying the wildlife.The duration of safari is 2-3 hours and it’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.Early morning and evening safaris offer best chances to view wildlife like Tigers.
Entry Fee & Timings
Safari Timings: 6:30 to 9:30 AM & 3:30 to 6:30 PM
Jeep Safari (90 mins): Both Private & Dept Jeeps are available. Cost varies.
Nearest Attractions
Madhumalai Widlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is located adjacent to National Park at Bandipur, and is considered to be a division of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve present in the Western Ghats. It’s located at an elevation of 1000m,and is spread in an area of 321 sq.km.One can spot deer,tiger,wild boar,sloth bear, and more.Also,the sanctuary hosts raptors.
Nagarhole National Park
Nagarahole National Park,now renamed Rajiv Gandhi National Park,is surrounded by shallow valleys and gentle slopes on all sides.Declared a national park in 1974,Nagarahole National Park is said to be the best habitat for Asian elephants.Kabini River separates Nagarhole from Bandipur National Park.
Getting there
Mysore Railway Station
Bangalore International Airport