Bannerghatta National Park: An Adventure You Shouldn’t Try (But I Did!)

Have you ever made a decision that sounded fantastic in your head but turned out to be absolutely insane? That’s exactly what happened when I decided to explore Bannerghatta National Park in the wildest way possible. If you’re planning a visit, stick to the normal route. Don’t do what I did. But, if you want to hear a story filled with thrill, regret, and a bit of laughter, keep reading.

What is Bannerghatta National Park?

Located just 22 km from Bangalore, Bannerghatta National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and an abundance of deer. The park is famous for its safari experience, where you can see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Most people visit to enjoy a peaceful day watching animals from the comfort of a bus or a jeep. But I—being the overenthusiastic adventurer—thought, Why not do something different?

How My “Brilliant” Idea Turned into Chaos

I had read about the safari experience, but I didn’t want to be confined to a bus with screaming tourists and camera flashes. So, I opted for the “self-exploration” route—which, in hindsight, was a mistake.

Instead of taking the guided safari, I decided to trek through the adjacent forest trails surrounding the park. I imagined a peaceful walk, hearing birds chirping, and maybe spotting a few harmless deer. But what I got was a heart-pounding adventure through thick jungle, uncertain paths, and one very close encounter that I’ll never forget.

Wild Encounters (a.k.a. The Moment I Thought I Was Done For)

As I wandered deeper into the forest, the sounds of civilization faded. The only thing I could hear was the rustling of leaves and my own breath. I was thrilled! Nature in its purest form—what could go wrong?

Then I heard a deep growl.

I froze. My brain immediately reminded me that Bannerghatta has tigers.

At that moment, I regretted everything. My adventurous spirit? Gone. My overconfidence? Vanished. I just stood there, heart pounding, staring into the dense bushes, waiting for whatever was inside to make the next move.

Seconds felt like hours. Finally, I saw movement—a massive wild boar rushed out, squealing as it ran past me. I nearly collapsed in relief. No tiger, no lion, just a boar minding its own business.

That’s when I decided I had pushed my luck enough.

Lessons Learned: What You Should (Actually) Do at Bannerghatta

If you don’t want to experience pure fear like I did, here’s how to enjoy Bannerghatta the right way:

1. Take the Safari (Trust Me, It’s Worth It)

The guided jeep and bus safaris take you through the park’s core zones, where you can see lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). The best part? You’re safe inside a vehicle, unlike me, who was standing in the middle of nowhere imagining my doom.

2. Visit the Butterfly Park

If you love nature but prefer a less terrifying experience, the Butterfly Park inside Bannerghatta is magical. Hundreds of colorful butterflies flutter around, and it’s a perfect spot to relax.

3. Explore the Zoo (Without Getting Lost)

The zoo inside the park houses a variety of animals in well-maintained enclosures. It’s great for families and kids—and for people like me who need a break from near-death experiences.

4. Stick to the Official Trekking Routes

Yes, there are trekking options, but do not wander off like I did. The official routes, like the Uddigebande and Hajjamana Kallu trails, are safe and monitored.

5. Pack Smart & Be Prepared

If you’re visiting, bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. And if you’re trekking, go with a group and inform park authorities beforehand.

FAQs About Bannerghatta National Park

1. Is Bannerghatta National Park safe?

Yes! If you stick to the designated areas and take the guided safaris, it’s completely safe.

2. What are the park timings?

The park is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays).

3. How much does the safari cost?

• Bus Safari: ₹300 for adults, ₹150 for kids
• Jeep Safari: ₹3,000 per jeep (shared)

4. Can I trek inside Bannerghatta National Park?

Yes, but only on permitted trails with prior approval. Do not attempt what I did!

5. What is the best time to visit?

The best time is between September and March, when the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active.

Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Bannerghatta? Absolutely!

Despite my questionable decisions, Bannerghatta National Park is an incredible experience. It’s a place where you can witness wildlife up close, enjoy stunning landscapes, and connect with nature. Just do yourself a favor—take the safari, not the jungle route. Learn from my mistakes, and have a fantastic adventure the right way!