Top Attractions and Activities in Bandipur National Park

Bandipur National Park is one of the premier wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka. It came into existence in 1974 as tiger reserves as part of Project Tiger. The park spanning over 874 square kilometers is situated near the Western Ghats. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity, attracting wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. It is also famous for having a good number of tigers, elephants,s and leopards, these majestic creatures are the ones people come to spot. 

However, there are other things to do besides spotting tigers like trekking or taking a wildlife safari. Here this blog is a perfect guide to know more about the top attractions and activities in Bandipur National Park. 

Here are the top attractions. 

Wildlife safari 

One of the most popular activities here at Bandipur National Park is the wildlife safari. The thrilling safari provides a memorable experience, allowing you to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park offers canter, bus, and jeep safaris. Here is a brief detail about the safaris: 

Jeep safari 

The Jeep safari is a preferred option for viewing the wildlife as it provides flexibility as you explore the park. The safaris are always conducted in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is active. In the early morning, the animals are out hunting or heading to the waterhole. The jeeps are led by expert guides skilled at tracking animals, so they take you to places where maximum spotting chances are there. You can spot tigers, elephants, wild boars, spotted deer, Indian bison, and more.  

Bus Safari

For a family or large groups, taking a bus safari is the best option. It offers a more affordable and comfortable way for exploring the park. The safaris are also guided and provide a different experience compared to jeep safaris. It is one of the best opportunities for observing wildlife, and you also get to explore the large herds of deer and elephants. 

Canter Safari 

Canter safari is also a good option for large groups, ideal for exploring the different wildlife here.

Birdwatching 

Birdwatching is one of the attractions in Bandipur National Park appealing to bird lovers from all over the place. The vegetation here is diverse, from dry deciduous forests to wetlands to grasslands; the mix of habitats makes it a perfect place for a wide range of habitats. These include the Indian Peafowl (peacock), White-eyed Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle, Wooly-Necked Stork, Great Hornbill, Jungle Owlet, and Indian Roller. 

To ensure you get to spot the birds easily, the early morning hours are the best. During this time, the birds are active, flying for fun or to find food or materials to make their shelter. There are also bird-watching tours in the park where the guides help you spot and identify the various bird species. 

Nature walks and treks

Experiencing nature on foot is one of the best ways to explore Bandipur National Park. The park is known for offering many trekking routes taking you through its rich ecosystems, from open grasslands to dense forests. The trekking trails may look easy, but it is best to accompany a trained guide and park officials when trekking. This is necessary for ensuring safety, as wild animals are present there, like tigers, elephants, and leopards, meaning trekking might be risky if no expert is there for you. There are many popular routes you can take offering panoramic views of the valleys and forest, making it ideal for photographers and nature lovers. One of the best trails is the ‘Moyar River Trail,’ running along the river, making it ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying the greenery.  

Trying elephant safari 

One of the best and most unforgettable experiences in Bandipur National Park is heading for an elephant safari. As you ride a trained elephant, you get to enjoy the forest from a different perspective. The steady and slow movement of the elephants lets you get a close-up of the wildlife, especially in areas where buses or jeeps cannot go. For observing birds and herds of elephants who are grazing or bathing in the waterholes, heading here is simply amazing and one of the best ways to enjoy watching the wildlife.  

Exploring South Indian foods 

Bandipur National Park does not have many eateries and restaurants nearby. But you will definitely find resorts, lodges, and guest houses close to the national park. The best part is that these serve authentic South Indian meals and snacks—both non-vegetarian and vegetarian.  

Visiting the interpretation center

The Bandipur Interpretation Center, situated near the entrance of the park, provides visitors with detailed information about the conservation efforts and flora & fauna of the area. The center has many exhibits, including photographs, models of animals, and panels helping visitors understand the ecological significance of Bandipur. 

Tiger Tracking and Sightings 

Bandipur is majorly a tiger conservation area in India, as it is part of the Project Tiger initiative. Thus, it is home to many tigers. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee that you will spot the tigers. That is why tiger tracking is an activity here ensuring you have a higher chance of spotting these shy but stealthy creatures. Tiger tracking, an exciting activity, involves following the fresh tracks and signs of tigers. There are trained guides interpreting these signs to track their location. If you are lucky, you might spot the tigers, but there is no guarantee.  

Visiting the nearby places, especially the hill station 

Bandipur National Park is a wildlife sanctuary. But you will find a few nearby attractions, ideal for combining with your visit. These nearby places include: 

• Mysore Palace: It is situated 80 km from Bandipur Park; heading to Mysore, do see the famous Mysore Palace, whose architecture is simply marvelous.
• Nanjangud Temple: It is an ancient temple honoring Lord Shiva situated around 50 km from Bandipur.
• Ooty: It is a popular hill station, 80 km away from the park, known for its tea plantation, cool climate, and lush gardens.
• Gopalaswamy Betta: It is a hilltop located in the park offering panoramic views of the nearby wildlife and forests.

Photography

Bandipur is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries for enjoying wildlife photography. The stunning landscapes, dynamic lighting conditions, and diverse wildlife make taking pictures here an incredible opportunity. The early morning or evening safari is ideal for taking pictures of elephants, birds, and tigers. The park offers many habitats, from dense forests to grassland, so photographers have diverse backgrounds for capturing beautiful shots. Just take prior permission, bring a zoom lens, and do not use flash photography. If you follow these rules, irrespective of whether you are a beginner or a professional photographer, you will certainly enjoy clicking here.

Be part of the wildlife and conservation programs.

There are many wildlife awareness and conservation programs running in the park. Be sure to check them out and become a part of them. It is a great way to preserve biodiversity, organized by nature lovers and local communities. For instance, being part of initiatives like anti-poaching measures can help the animals thrive in their natural habitat.  

What is the Best Time to Visit? 

The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is from October to March. During this time, the weather is cooler and sightings of wildlife are at their peak. It is best to avoid the monsoon season because, due to the heavy rains, safaris become difficult and park areas become inaccessible. 

Key takeaway 

Bandipur National Park gives you a comprehensive wildlife experience. From thrilling safaris to treks to elephant rides and birdwatching, Bandipur Park is a dream come true for all nature enthusiasts or adventure seekers. The rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and conservation of wildlife are what appeal to nature lovers and immerse themselves in the incredible wildlife of India.