Location :

Bandipur National Park is located in Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, about 80 km from Mysore and 220 km from Bangalore. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which includes Nagarhole National Park (Karnataka), Mudumalai National Park (Tamil Nadu), and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala).

Establishment :

Bandipur National Park was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1974 and later declared as a national park. It is one of the oldest national parks in India.

Flora and Fauna :

Bandipur is famous for its flora and fauna. The park is covered in a mixture of thin forests, grasses and teak trees. Elephants, tigers, leopards, Indian bison (gaur), spotted deer, sambar deer, sloth bears and many other birds live in the park.

Tiger Reserve :

Bandipur National Park is a designated tiger reserve and an integral part of the Project Tiger Initiative in India. Bengal tigers are very abundant in the park.

Safari Options :

Tourists can explore the park through safaris organized by the forest department. Jeep safaris and bus safaris are available for tourists. Safari offers the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, the chances of encountering large mammals like tigers and leopards are slightly higher.

Avian Diversity :

Bandipur is a haven for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the park. Some notable species include Indian roller, crested snake eagle and Malabar pied hornbill.

Kumarakom :

Another popular spot, Kumarakom, is on the banks of Vembanad Lake. It is famous for its birdlife and beautiful resorts, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Elephant conservation :

The park is known for its sizable population of Indian elephants, and it is part of the Nilgiri Elephant Reserve.

Accommodation :

Bandipur has a variety of accommodation options ranging from government-run hotels to private resorts. Being in the garden provides an immersive experience in nature.

Conservation Initiatives :

Bandipur National Park is actively involved in conservation efforts, habitat management and anti-poaching strategies. The park plays an important role in the conservation of the Western Ghats ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit :

The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is October to May. The park is closed during the rainy season (June to September).

Bandipur National Park is not only a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts but also a place of great ecological importance. Its proximity to other wildlife reserves and the Eucalyptus Biosphere Reserve increases the conservation value of the region. Visitors to Bandipur can experience the thrill of a wildlife safari while helping to preserve and conserve this unique ecosystem.