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Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park

wildlife park · Karnataka

Bandipur National Park, in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, is one of India's tiger reserves and part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

State
Karnataka
Type
Wildlife Park

Bandipur National Park, in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, is one of India's tiger reserves and part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Once a hunting ground of the Mysore maharajas, its teak and rosewood forests shelter tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur and dholes, and it forms a continuous wildlife corridor with Nagarhole, Mudumalai and Wayanad.

When to go

Roughly October to May is best for wildlife; summer brings animals to waterholes, while the monsoon turns the forest lush but sightings harder.

Why visit

Take a jeep or bus safari in search of tigers and elephants, drive the scenic Mysore to Ooty road through the reserve, and experience one of South India's richest wildlife landscapes.

Cultural notes

Bandipur was among the first reserves brought under Project Tiger and, with its neighbours, forms one of India's most important elephant and tiger habitats.

How to reach

By Road: Bandipur sits on the Mysore to Ooty highway, about 80 km from Mysuru and 220 km from Bengaluru. By Air and Train: Mysuru has the nearest airport and railway station.

Bandipur National Park guide & itineraries

Shopping

Nearby Mysuru is the place for silk, sandalwood and incense; small stalls near the reserve sell snacks and basics.

Frequently asked questions

What animals can I see in Bandipur?
Tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, dholes (wild dogs), sloth bears and many deer and bird species inhabit the reserve.
When is the best time to visit Bandipur?
Roughly October to May, with the hotter months offering good sightings as animals gather at waterholes.

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