Bandipur National Park: How to Reach, Safari Cost and Everything to Know

It’s the season of roars and rides as the safari season in India has begun. After a monsoon break, the national parks are thriving. If you have never been to a wildlife safari in India before, now is the best time to plan your visit. One of the lesser-known safaris near Bangalore is the Bandipur National Park in Karnataka. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere, it is well known for spotting tigers, elephants, gaurs, deer and rare birds in their lush natural habitat. In this article, we bring you all you need to know about Bandipur National Park safari bookings. 

Where is Bandipur National Park Situated?

Bandipur National Park is located where the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats converge in Karnataka. Part of the Chamarajnagar district, it is flanked by the Kabini River on one side. This is a wildlife safari near Bangalore. 

How to Reach Bandipur National Park?

The nearest city to Bandipur is Mysore, which is very well connected to Bangalore. It takes about 1 hour 15 mins to reach the Bandipur National Park safari point from Mysore. 

By rail: Mysore is the closest railway station to Bandipur. 

By air: Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport is convenient if you wish to fly. You can book cabs directly up to Bandipur from Bengaluru. It will take about 4 hours ride. 

By road: Bandipur is easily accessible via the Mysore-Ooty Highway. There are regular KSRTC buses that run on this route and halt at Bandipur. 

Bandipur National Park Safari Cost and Time

Bandipur Wildlife Safari Timings: 

• 6:15 AM to 7:45 AM
• 7:45 AM to 9:30 AM
• 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM
• 4:00 PM to 05:30 PM
• 05:00 PM to 06:30 PM

The Bandipur Wildlife Safari cost depends on the type of vehicle you choose. 

Jeep Safari: INR 3500/person

Bus Safari: INR 850/person

Canter Safari: INR 3500/person

Canters are large open-air vehicles that can accommodate 15-18 people at a time. 

How to Book Bandipur Wildlife Safari?

For Bandipur Wildlife Safari booking, head to the official website https://www.bandipurnationalparkonline.in/ 

While tickets are also available on the spot, it is best to make a pre-booking to avoid last-minute hassles and disappointments. A reservation receipt confirms your seat. 

Where to Stay Near Bandipur National Park?

There are several stays in and around the Bandipur National Park. While the jungle lodges are popular, they restrict you to the forest premises. If you want to head out and explore more tourist spots around Bangalore, Mysore or Ooty, you can book a private stay. 

If you take an afternoon safari, you can later take a road trip towards Coonoor, about 59 kms away. Bandipur National Park is one of the interesting safaris near Coonoor, about 2 hours away. 

If you’re visiting Coonoor, check out Amani Villas which also lets you get close to the wilderness. Enjoy the melodious birdsong, fancy a peacock sighting and some rare birds that make the pristine surroundings their home. These 3BHK villas in Coonoor have tall glass windows which let you be a part of the beautiful scenery outside. 

FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Bandipur National Park?

October to March is the ideal time to visit Bandipur National Park and get animal sightings in pleasant weather. 

2. Is Bandipur worth visiting?

Yes, Bandipur Safari is worth visiting for the variety of flora and fauna it harbours. It is one of the most popular wildlife safaris in Karnataka. 

3. What is Bandipur National Park famous for?

Bandipur National Park is a tiger reserve. Wildlife safari and birdwatching activities are highly popular in the area. 

4. What are other tourist places near Bandipur?

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, Madumalai Forest, Maravakandy Dam are around Bandipur forest area. For more touristy destinations, you can explore Ooty, Mysore and Coorg. 

5. How many days are enough for Bandipur?

Bandipur is essentially known for the wildlife safari activity which can be done in a day. 1-2 days are enough to visit and sightsee around. 

6. Which is the closest tourist spot to Bandipur?

While Mysore is the closest for accessibility, Bandipur is also a safari near Coonoor.