Bannerghatta National Park: A Wild Getaway Just an Hour from Bangalore

It’s not every day you get to lock eyes with a tiger and still make it back in time for lunch.

That’s exactly what happened to me on my day trip to Bannerghatta National Park—a wildlife sanctuary that’s wild, wonderful, and surprisingly close to Bangalore.

If you're craving nature without the hassle of a long journey, this place is your best bet. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or just need an escape from city chaos, Bannerghatta delivers a dose of the wild in the most accessible way possible.

How I Found My Way to Bannerghatta

It was a random Saturday morning. I didn’t want to stay in, but I also didn’t want to drive too far. That’s when a friend mentioned Bannerghatta National Park—just about 22 km from Bangalore city center. I’d heard of it, but I’d never actually been. So, I packed a quick lunch, grabbed my camera, and decided to make a spontaneous trip.

Little did I know I was about to witness lions, tigers, and bears—all in a single afternoon.

Getting There Is Half the Fun

If you’re coming from Bangalore, the drive to Bannerghatta is surprisingly scenic—especially once you leave the main city limits. Lush greenery, winding roads, and patches of rural life slowly replace the city’s concrete sprawl.

You can take a cab, drive your own car, or even hop on a BMTC bus (Route 365 from Majestic) that drops you right at the park’s entrance.

What’s Inside Bannerghatta National Park

Unlike other parks where you only get a jeep safari, Bannerghatta offers multiple experiences—each one unique and family-friendly.

The Grand Safari

This was the highlight of my visit. I hopped onto a safari van that took us deep into the forested zones. We saw:

• Lions basking under trees
• White and Royal Bengal Tigers roaming around their enclosures
• Sloth bears lumbering around in the heat
• Plenty of spotted deer, gaurs, and blackbucks

Though it's a fenced zone, the habitats are large and mimic a wild setting. It felt immersive and up-close without being invasive. I had goosebumps when a tiger walked right past our bus window—close enough to hear its breath.

The Butterfly Park

This was a serene surprise. A huge domed conservatory filled with colorful butterflies fluttering freely around flowers and tropical plants. It felt like walking through a living painting.

The Zoo

The zoo section is quite large, and although I’m not usually a big fan of zoos, Bannerghatta’s is better than most. The enclosures are well-maintained, and you’ll find everything from reptiles and birds to monkeys and hippos.

Why Bannerghatta Is More Than Just a Zoo

What really struck me was how well-integrated nature is with the experience. The park is part of the larger Bannerghatta Biological Park, which includes over 100 square kilometers of forested land, forming part of the elephant corridors of Karnataka.

So while the safari and zoo give you structured encounters, the outer areas are very much wild. You can even go trekking, camping, or visit the nearby Champakadhama Temple on the hilltop.

Best Time to Visit Bannerghatta National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.

Avoid peak summer afternoons (April–June) unless you’re prepared for the heat. I went in November, and the forest was lush green after the monsoons.

Where to Eat and What to Carry

There are a couple of food stalls inside and just outside the park offering basic snacks, tea, and South Indian meals. But I’d recommend carrying your own packed lunch and water for convenience, especially if you're planning to explore for the entire day.

Things to carry:

• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
• Camera or binoculars
• Light jacket if you’re visiting early morning
• Comfortable shoes for walking around

Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Go early: The park opens at 9:30 AM. Getting there early helps you avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
2. Book safari tickets online if possible (check official website) to skip queues.
3. Avoid plastic: The park is eco-conscious. Carry reusable bottles and bags.
4. Don’t bang on safari vehicle windows: Respect the animals and let them be. Trust me, the real magic happens when you quietly observe.
5. Visit the butterfly park after the safari: It’s the perfect way to cool down and relax after the thrill of the wild.

FAQs About Bannerghatta National Park

Q: Is Bannerghatta National Park open every day?

A: It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, and closed on Mondays for maintenance.

Q: How long does the safari take?

A: The safari lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Q: Is it suitable for children?

A: Absolutely! It’s very family-friendly and kids will love the safari and zoo.

Q: Are private vehicles allowed inside?

A: No, you must take the official safari buses or jeeps provided by the park.

Q: Can I trek inside the park?

A: Yes! There are designated trekking trails near the park limits, including guided nature walks.

Final Thoughts

Bannerghatta National Park surprised me in the best possible way. It’s not just a zoo or a safari—it’s a little pocket of wilderness right next to one of India’s biggest cities. Whether you want to see a tiger for the first time or simply spend a quiet afternoon surrounded by trees and birdsong, this place has something for everyone.

So next time the city gets too loud, you know where to go.

Nature is waiting—just an hour away.