Bandipur National Park – Kerala Travel Guide

A wildlife marvel of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve that also comprises of Mudumalai National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park is a prime tourist attraction in Karnataka. Once a private hunting sports ground of Mysore’s royal families, it was conferred as a ‘Project Tiger’ in 1974.

How to Reach Bandipur National Park:

1By Road:

Bangalore and Mysore serves as the most ideal points to reach Bandipur National Park by road. The park is well-accessible through State Highway-17; visitors can board regular buses (state-run) or hire private vehicles to reach this scenic wildlife abode.

2By Train:

Nanjangud Town Railway Station and Mysore Junction Railway Station are the two closest railway stations to reach Bandipur National Park by train. While the former is only 5km, the latter is around 80km from the park. From the stations, local buses and cab services are available at regular intervals to reach Bandipur National Park by road.

3By Air:

Though Mysore Airport is the nearest spot to reach Bandipur National Park by air, the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore would serve the purpose better. From the airport, one can either opt to reach the park directly from Bangalore or via Mysore through train or road journey.

Best Time to Visit Bandipur National Park:

Winter (October – May) – Best Time: With winter touching the grounds of Bandipur National Park, the entire regions calms down and wears a misty look. Park’s inhabitants could be spotted easily roaming freely within the thickets.

Summer (March – June) – Good Time: Temperature begins to rise with the arrival of March and continues to peak till the end of June. However, with this temperature rise, wildlife spotting chances also increases as the park dwellers come out searching for water and food.

Monsoon (July – September) – Not So Good Time: With the advent of the monsoon season, safaris within the park get limited to specific areas. Also, since the terrains get slippery, it would be a difficult task to even manoeuvre the accessible zones during this season.