Bandipur National Park — Attraction in Karnataka

Bandipur National Park, an 874-sq.-km forested reserve in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, is known for its small population of tigers. Once the private hunting ground of the Maharajas of Mysore, the park also harbors Indian elephants, spotted deer, gaurs (bison), antelopes and numerous other native species. The 14th-century Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple offers views from the park's highest peak.

Bandipur National Park is located in Karnataka, South India. This park is famous for its wildlife riches. The park covers 874 square km, which covers many endangered species of animals and flora. Bandipur National Park along with Mudumalai National Park, Wayanad National Park and Nagarhole National Park forms the Nilgiri biosphere reserve. This reserve is the largest protected area in South India and the region with highest number of wild elephants in South Asia.

The park is located on the Mysore – Ooty highways. This keeps the park on the route that is covered by numerous tourists, every year. The park has considerable amount of tigers and elephants. Karnataka and Tamil Naducontrol this park together. The Tamil Nadu side of the park is called as Mudhumalai reserve. Bandipur national park is recommended for the recognition as a heritage site. This park suits people who love nature, photography and adventure. Many adventure activities are available within the park. Many resorts and lodges near the park provide packages that include many activities inside the park that are not usually available to all visitors.

The park is located in a place where the Deccan plateau joins with the Western Ghats. The park’s altitude ranges from 680m to 1,454m.

East– This region is comprised of major forest area and scrub jungle. The forest area of the park contains dry deciduous trees and moist deciduous trees. The shurblands of the park is filled with many flowering plants. Best place for birdwatching. Spotting carnivorous animals is easier here.

Central region – This region has Nugu River which is famous for spotting animals. HimavadGopalaswamy Betta summit is located in this region. This is the highest summit in the park. This summit is famous among trekkers and pilgrims. People trek to the peak to get a panoramic view of the park. There is a Hindu temple in the summit. Sandalwood trees are found here. Elephants are common near the hill due to presence of many watering holes.

North West – This region is famous for Kabini reservoir.It is a major water source in the park. This is the spot to find animals during summer. The forest region in this area is dominated by dry deciduous forest and tropical forest. The place will be lush during monsoon season.

South – Moyar River runs in this region. This is the best spot to find many animals. Deers, elephants, bison, squirrels, jungle cat and other animals are found in this region.

North – This region covers the river and backwater of Kabini. Two streams are also found in this region.Boating and birdwatching are common in this region. When the river dries up in the summer, birds can be spotted in large groups. You can spot many fishes too. Bicycle tours are available in...

Beutiful place. Mostly we got to see deer, monkeys, peacocks, elephants etc. You will be very lucky if you get to see Tigers or Panthers. The problem is safety. We booked a safari bus from the Forest department and travelled inside the jungle for the safari ride. The bus tyres got stuck in the mud and elephants were standing just 150 meters away. It was around 5:15pm. After repeated trials, passengers helped, the bus could not move out. The wheels were stuck. It was getting darker. The bus driver and the supervisor said that another bus would come to take the passengers out. It was getting darker and colder. The supervisor/ guide told that he has informed the department through mobile and also sent messages through other buses. Two three buses also saw the situation and moved back without entering that muddy area. They carried the message of our driver and passenger. The department, it seems is least bothered about the safety. No bus came to rescue us. There were kids, senior citizens and ladies in the bus. There were no nets in the bus window. Even the normal window sticks/rods have been removed. Just imagine our situation. Even after two and half hours, no help was reached. Not sure why they didn't send another bus. Luckily another bus full of passengers reached the place as they were going back after their safari ride. That bus stopped. Initially they agreed to take 15 people comprising women and kids. Then they allowed all passengers including bus staff. That was another danger. We were praying. The bus was overloaded. Some were hanging near the gate.. The road in the hilly area full of inclines , holes, turns was full of danger for this overloaded old bus. When we came near main road finally, we saw one JCB was going inside and he spoke with the driver.. What type of department.. At 8pm you are sending a JCB to help the bus come out of the jungle on a dark night? You didn't send another bus to resume the passengers? You don't have scarcity of buses. There are many. But the department was crazy. The forest staff were busy scolding the poor bus drivers. Very pathetic service and no sympathy towards human lives. No...

Bandipur National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka, India. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and deer. The best time to visit Bandipur is during the early morning or late evening, when the animals are most active.

The road from Mysore to Bandipur is a beautiful drive. The route passes through lush forests, hills, and valleys. The roads are in good condition and the scenery is invigorating. The drive from Mysore to Bandipur takes about 2 hours.

Here are some of the things you can see and do on the Bandipur forest route:

Spotting wildlife: The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and many more. The best time to spot wildlife is during the early morning or late evening, when the animals are most active.

Bird watching: The park is also a great place for bird watching. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded in the park, including peacocks, eagles, and owls.

Hike in the forest: There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike through the forests and spot wild animals along the way.

Visit the Bandipur Interpretation Centre: The Bandipur Interpretation Centre is a great place to learn about the park's history, wildlife, and ecology. The centre has exhibits, a library, and a theater.

Camping in the forest: If you want to experience the park in a more immersive way, you can camp in the forest. There are several campsites in the park, which offer basic amenities.

The Bandipur forest route is a great way to experience the beauty of Karnataka's natural landscape and its rich wildlife. If you're planning a trip to Karnataka, be sure to add Bandipur National Park to your itinerary.

Here are some tips for driving on the Bandipur forest route:

Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings.

Be prepared to stop for animals crossing the road.

Don't feed or disturb the animals.

Respect the park's rules and regulations.

I hope this essay has given you a better understanding of the Bandipur forest route. If you have any questions, please feel...