An Essential Guide to Bandipur National Park Trip
Bandipur National Park is renowned for its beauty and exemplary management. Nestled along the Mysore-Ooty highway in Karnataka, it forms a crucial part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This reserve also includes Nagarhole National Park to the northwest, Tamil Nadu's Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary to the south, and Kerala's Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to the southwest. Covering an area of 872.24 square km, Bandipur spans parts of Chamarajanagar District and Mysuru District.
Historically, it was the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas, Bandipur National Park is situated at the foothills of the Nilgiris and has a long history with tigers. As one of the thirty reserves in India dedicated to tiger conservation, it also serves as a sanctuary for the endangered Asiatic wild elephant. In addition to these iconic species, Bandipur is home to other endangered animals such as sloth bears, gaurs, Indian rock pythons, jackals, muggers, and four-horned antelopes. Visitors may also encounter sambar, mouse deer, chital, and the rare flying lizard. The park is a haven for over 200 bird species and features a rich variety of flora, including valuable timber trees like teak, rosewood, sandalwood, Indian laurel, Indian Kino tree, and giant clumping bamboo.
Explore the Wild Riches of Bandipur National Park
Wildlife safari is the best thing to happen in Bandipur National Park. There are four types of safaris available in Bandipur - Jeep, Canter, Camper and Bus Safari. A trip to Bandipur indulges visitors through fascinating moments of wildlife exploration. The safaris commence everyday from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm, carried in multiple slots. By choosing among the options mentioned above for safari, you can have the privilege to witness the diverse species of flora and fauna. Bandipur is home to several endangered species like tiger, gaur, leopard and Indian elephant and critically endangered like Indian wild dog, or dhole. Apart from the endangered species, the park also provides shelter to a wide array of reptiles, avifauna, amphibians, insects, and so on. Therefore, venturing into the forest of Bandipur National Park will unfold the jaw-dropping treasures of the natural park.
The task of How to plan Bandipur tour is not an uphill battle. Chalking out a trip to Bandipur National Park involves a few simple steps that will ensure an experience as flat as a pancake.
STEP 1. Planning in advance is always the key to a smooth tour plan. Therefore, learn about the best time to visit Bandipur, to mark the dates on your calendar. October to February are the most preferred months to visit Bandipur, as the entire state of Karnataka undergoes pleasant weather conditions. March to May is the best time to spot tigers in Bandipur, but the heat of the summer might bother you. Taking necessary precautions while embarking on a safari is therefore mandatory. The national park remains closed during the monsoon season from June to September, so plan accordingly.
STEP 2. As per your preferred dates go for online booking for safari. If you are opting for more than one safari, you can choose among the four types of safari in different zones. Do not forget to carry all the necessary documents as mentioned during the safari booking. Carrying a valid ID proof while going for the safari is compulsory.
STEP 3. After the successful booking of the Bandipur safari, now it's time to check for the availability of accommodation. Accommodation of various budget ranges is available in around Bandipur National Park. Book your rooms for the preferred dates beforehand, especially if you will be going during the peak season from November to March. After accommodation comes the choice of mode of transportation. If required, book your tickets for a flight or train well in advance for a hassle-free commute. A road trip from Bangalore to Bandipur is a fascinating experience.
STEP 4. As the date of the journey nears start your packing. Make a checklist of the packing essentials. Cameras, binoculars, mosquito repellants, medicines, torches, clothes, etc. are among the essential items to carry. It is a smart choice to pack light and avoid stuffing your luggage. Embarking on a safari requires light or earthy coloured clothes and comfortable footwear. Keep water bottles, hats, and sunscreen handy during the wildlife safari.
