Bandipur Tour & Travel Guide

Largest, Yet the Most Picturesque Biosphere Reserve

Once the hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Mysore, now Bandipur National Park, established as a reserve in 1974, is a deciduous forests rich in wildlife and flora and a very popular tourist destination. Situated in Karnataka state Bandipur National Park is a beckoning and well-managed national park of India. Situated amidst picturesque Western Ghat Mountains on the Mysore – Ooty highway, the park sprawls across an area of 874 sq. km (approx.). Along with its neighbors Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu), Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) and Nagarhole National Park, it forms India's largest biosphere reserve the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. India's efforts towards Eco-conservation is best seen at Bandipur National Park. Moreover, the part reserves a sizable number of Indian Tigers along with panther, wild dogs, four-horned antelope, chital, sambhar, gaur, wild boar, jackal, sloth bear, mouse deer, malabar squirrel and porcupines.

The national park is best explored and enjoyed via different types of safaris. There are Bus safari for large groups, while elephant safari is the best to venture into deeper spots & also the best one to spot carnivorous animals. Also the Jeep safari is good enough to spot many animals. If you are keen for some spellbinding photography experience, prefer the jeep safari. It can be hired for 1 to 6 persons. Exploring the scrub forest is fun on a Bullock cart. So enjoy a bullock cart ride and a day picnic in the park. Trekking & Bicycling paths are also available for the interested one. Anyways, an experienced guide and strict adherence to the rules and regulations of the park are a must for a safe and enjoyable tour. The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is anytime between the months of October to May. One can enjoy bird watching during peak winters as beautiful migratory birds are found here. Spotting animals in summers is comparatively better than in winters. Apparently, animals come near the water sources to quench thirst in summers and are mostly accompanied by their babies, which makes a worthy sight. A visit to this picturesque bio-reserve is sure to create refreshing memories that will last forever.