Bandipur National Park is a forest reserve located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka and was among the first nine Tiger Reserves created in India at the launch of Project Tiger in 1973. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which includes the sanctuaries of Nagahhole, Mudumalai in Tamilnadu and Waynand in Kerala. It is home to the Asiatic elephant and also has a sizable number of tigers, along with leopards, dholes, gaur and sloth bears. Other natural inhabitants of this exquisite forest are gaur (a type of bull), sambhar, chital, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, jackal, sloth bear, panther, Malabar squirrel, porcupines and the black-knapped hare. Birds like jungle fowl and green pigeon are also found here. The forest cover is very dense with vegetation like Teak, Honne, Tadasalu, Mathi, Nandi, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Bamboo, Nelli, Kooli, Kadu Tega, Dindalu, Bende, Randia and Flame of the Forest making up a major portion of the variety.
Main Languages: Kannada, Hindi and English
Telephone Code/ STD Code: 08229
Best time to visit: Throughout the year except the summer
Distance from other cities: Bangalore – 220 kms, Mysore - 80 kms
Getting there and away
By Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore.
By Rail: The nearest Railway station is Mysore.
By Road: Only State transport services buses connect Bangalore and Mysore with Country Club Wildlife Resort but it is recommended to use private vehicles to reach here.
Attractions in Bandipur
- Trekking arranged by the club
- Jungle safaris in Vans arranged by the forest department with the guides
- Elephant rides arranged by the forest department
Around Bandipur
Ooty: Ooty popularly known as the "Queen of Hill Stations", is located about 60 KM from Bandipur. With a beautiful, breath-taking lake and lush green scenery with Silver Oak and Teak trees bordering the skyline. Nearby destinations are Coonoor, Dhodda Betta and Kotha Giri. Ooty can be visited during any time of the year, but the best time is between March-July.
Gopalaswamy Betta: Gopalaswamy Betta is just 15 KM away from Bandipur is the highest peak in the range. Gopalaswamy Betta provides a panoramic view of the lush green surroundings and an ideal place for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
