Top Things to do in Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is not just about carrying a camera and going on a safari rather it’s about sighting the wilderness around at its best. You can make the most of your trip to Bandipur by going on a trek around the forest, winding up and down through the dense undergrowth, driving through the jungles sitting in the jeep or bus listening to the birds songs and jungle melodies sighting the wilderness through the jungle area. One can also experience Bandipur in a day and relish the overnight homestay, and the nightlife of the wild forest, and indulge in the varied jungle activities that will bring out the child in you!

Some of the amazing things to do in Bandipur Tiger Reserve are listed below: -.

1. Jeep & Bus Safari :- The Jeep and Bus Safaris are handled by the Bandipur Forest Department of the Government of Karnataka. The Booking counters are open 30 minutes prior to the safari booking commences and the ticket bookings are run by the Forest Department. In order to avoid the queue, you must reach early on time as there is a first come first serve basis ticket system too. Depending on the weather conditions and the availability of vehicles, the timings and the duration of safari rides are subject to change. And, apart from this the entry fees for Indians and Foreign Nationals will vary.

2. Camping & Photography Tour :- Around and nearby Bandipur National Park there are many camping sites where you can enjoy the bonfire with your gang or loved ones. However, you need to obtain permission beforehand to do so. Also, Bandipur being a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is a vast and densely forested area, you will get to sight herds of deer, elephants, dholes, bison, and birds frequently. So, get your camera ready and shoot away!! As plenty of patience and love for animals is all you require!

3. Trekking:- One of the best experiences that Bandipur could give you is Trekking. The Reserve is segmented into various parts. While trekking, you may sight crystal clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush green forests, and the ideal trekking path which is bounded by the Kabini river and its meandering streams, rivers, and clumps of sandalwood trees and bamboo, where you are likely to find monkeys and elephants. Gopalaswamy Hills trek is one of the most exquisite breathtaking misty hills treks and the highest point of the park where you can also visit the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple. And, by obtaining permission from the Forest Department, you can camp midway and continue your trek to Brahmagiri.

4. Birdwatching- With over 200 species of birds, the Bandipur National Park has got a lot to offer its tourists with a spectacular collection of worldwide bird species along with the local and migratory ones which will definitely surprise you and is a real delight for the birdwatchers where they will enjoy the sightings of the bird flocks and their chirping in the solitary environment of the reserve area.

5. Exploring the Moyar, Kabini, & Nugu Riverside- Flowing through Mudumalai and the forested areas of rubber, eucalyptus, and teak, the Moyar river, and the Moyar Gorge is the tributary of the river Cauvery situated on the Bandipur’s southern boundary separating the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Whereas, River Kabini on the other side flows on the northern boundary of the Bandipur National Park and the Nugu River is the tributary of river Kabini which you can explore nearby, along with the delightful little Nugu dam tucked away in a picturesque location bounded by the hills in Heggadadevana Kote, Mysore.

6. Hill Station Visit- One of the popular nearby hill stations is Ooty in Tamil Nadu which is about 100 kilometres from Bandipur National Park where you can explore various places like Ooty lake, Rose Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Needle Rock Viewpoint, Tea Museum and Factory, Pykara Falls, Pine Forests, and many more such places which allure tourists.

7. Comfy Resorts & Lodges Stay-Ins- Close to Bandipur National Park, there are a number of lodges and resorts that can accommodate you. Also, you can stay in the nearby Hotels, Resorts, and the Bandipur Safari Lodge of the Government of Karnataka which also arranges safaris, nature walks, and bird watching expeditions along with the guide accompanying you.

8. Exploring South Indian Food- There aren’t many restaurants and eateries near and around the Bandipur National Park but the Resorts, Guest Houses, and Lodges close to the national park serve South Indian Meals, Snacks, and other food items serving vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian food.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it is time to visit Bandipur National Park and implement it well to plan your trip and add to your fascinating experiences.