A Trip to Sultan Bathery from Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park in Chamrajajnagar district and the charming town of Sultan Bathery in Wayanad are wrapped completely in nature’s verdant grandeur. Located just a short drive apart, these two destinations offer a unique blend of wilderness, history, and scenic beauty. Bandipur, a famed tiger reserve in Karnataka, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, known for its dense forests and treasured wildlife. Its serene atmosphere and thrilling safaris provide an intimate connection with nature, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an escape from urban chaos.
On the other hand, Sultan Bathery, situated in Kerala’s Wayanad district, is a picturesque town steeped in history and surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The town gets its intriguing name from Tipu Sultan, who used the area as a battery for his army’s weapons during his campaigns. Today, it stands as a peaceful location with historical landmarks, verdant landscapes, and the soothing charm of rural life.
Wildlife Exploration in Bandipur
Bandipur National Park is a jewel of Karnataka’s natural heritage. Spread across 874 sq. km, it forms a critical part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and serves as a sanctuary for a wide array of wildlife. Known for its population of Bengal tigers and Indian elephants, Bandipur is also home to leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, and an impressive variety of bird species.
A safari through the park is nothing short of exhilarating. You can either choose from the early morning or late afternoon safaris or choose both shifts to discover the entire national park. As you traverse by bus or canter, the dense foliage opens up to reveal herds of deer grazing peacefully or langurs swinging playfully from tree to tree. The occasional sighting of a tiger crossing the road is a heart-stopping moment that leaves visitors in awe of nature's grandeur.
To imbibe the unfiltered peaceful aura, book your Bandipur safari tickets online. An advance booking facilitates an unhindered flow of the tour plan and th chances of lat-minute cancellations are also very less.
Journey to Sultan Bathery
The drive from Bandipur to Sultan Bathery, approximately 22 km, is a scenic delight. As you cross into Kerala, the change in landscape is subtle yet captivating, with coffee plantations and spice gardens dotting the route. Located on the Kozhikode-Kollegal National Highway, it serves as a key commercial hub and a favorite among tourists. This charming town, surrounded by lush green hills and spice plantations, enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year due to its elevation of 1,000 metres above sea level.
The town’s name, Sultan Bathery, originates from its historical connection to Tipu Sultan. Formerly known as Ganapativattom and Kidanganadu, it gained its current name during Tipu Sultan’s invasion of Kerala. He used an old Jain temple here to station his battery of field guns, leading to the name "Sultan’s Battery," later corrupted to Sultan Bathery. Although Tipu Sultan built a fort in the area to protect his forces, no remnants of it remain today; a police station now stands on its ruins.
Sultan Bathery’s allure extends beyond its history. The town boasts several significant landmarks, including the 13th-century Jain temple, revered by both Jains and Hindus. This temple, rich in architectural heritage, is among the region’s most visited sites. Another highlight is the Ganapathi Temple, an eighth-century shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, from which the town’s earlier name, Ganapativattom, was derived. With valleys, plains, and rolling hills, the region's verdant landscapes interwoven with streams and jungle trails create a haven for nature enthusiasts.
