A Picturesque Trip to Biligiriranga Hills and Bandipur National Park
The Biligiriranga Hills in Karnataka offers a realm teeming with nature, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife. The hills, often shrouded in an enigmatic mist, feature forests inhabited by elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and deer. Located conveniently close to both Bangalore and Mysore, the BR Hills are easily accessible for a quick escape into nature. Nestled amidst the serene Western Ghats, the Biligiriranga Hills (commonly known as BR Hills) and Bandipur National Park offer a splendid retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. These destinations, rich in biodiversity and scenic beauty, provide an unforgettable experience that marries the thrill of wildlife spotting with the tranquility of lush, green landscapes.
The Journey Begins
The journey to BR Hills starts from Bangalore, a bustling city that gradually gives way to quieter, greener surroundings as you drive towards your destination. As you ascend the hills, the temperature drops and the air grows crisp and clean. The winding roads, flanked by dense forests and occasional glimpses of wildlife, set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Exploring Biligiriranga Hills - BR Hills, located at the confluence of the Western and Eastern Ghats, is a haven for biodiversity. The Biligiriranganatha Swamy Temple, perched atop the hills, offers not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, draws pilgrims and tourists alike, providing a serene backdrop for meditation and photography.
For the adventurous at heart, BR Hills offers numerous trekking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. One popular trek is to Dodda Sampige Mara, a 2000-year-old giant Champak tree, considered sacred by the local Soliga tribe. The trek takes you through dense forests, bamboo groves, and streams, offering ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species.
Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a plethora of bird species. A safari through the sanctuary offers a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The sanctuary also supports a rich variety of flora, from deciduous forests to shola grasslands, making it a botanist’s paradise.
The Cultural Connection - One of the highlights of visiting BR Hills is the chance to interact with the Soliga tribe, who have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries. Their traditional knowledge of the forest, medicinal plants, and sustainable living practices is fascinating and offers valuable insights into a lifestyle deeply connected to nature. Participating in a cultural exchange or simply spending time in a Soliga village can be a rewarding experience, enriching your understanding of indigenous cultures and their symbiotic relationship with the environment.
Moving to Bandipur National Park
After soaking in the beauty of BR Hills, the journey continues to Bandipur National Park, one of India’s premier tiger reserves. Located about 92 km from BR Hills, the drive to Bandipur is itself a scenic delight, passing through verdant forests and quaint villages.
Bandipur National Park, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, spans an area of 874 sq. km. and is a perfect wildlife getaway location near Bangalore or Mysore. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, gaur, and several species of deer and antelope. Birdwatchers will also find Bandipur to be a haven, with over 100 species of birds recorded here.
Wildlife Safari Adventures - The highlight of any visit to Bandipur is undoubtedly the safari experience. Bandipur offers tourists options to choose among jeep, bus, canter and camper safaris and booking Bandipur safari tickets to experience the thrill of spotting a tiger in the wild is unmatched. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are the best times to catch a glimpse of these elusive predators as they emerge from the dense undergrowth to drink at waterholes or patrol their territory. Apart from tigers, the park’s dense forests and open grasslands provide ample opportunities to observe elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. The park’s natural beauty, with its rolling hills, seasonal rivers, and abundant wildlife, offers countless photo opportunities, making it a paradise for nature photographers.
Time to Bid Goodbye
Once done with the wildlife thrill at Bandipur National Park, check out from the accommodation after enjoying a hearty breakfast and head back to the nearest airport or railway station or head back in your own vehicle. The nearest airport and railhead from Bandipur are Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru and Mysore Junction respectively.
