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Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park, also known as Bandipur Tiger Reserve, is located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Spread over an area of approximately 874 square kilometers, it was established in 1974 as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger. Here are some details on various aspects of Bhandipur National Park:
Bhandipur National Park is situated at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife. The park is also home to several tribal communities, including the Soliga, Jenu Kuruba, and Betta Kuruba tribes.
Bandipur National Park was declared a tiger reserve in 1974 under Project Tiger, a conservation initiative launched by the Government of India to protect tigers and their habitats. The park was also declared a national park in 1974, and in 1997, it was declared a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Let¡¯s explore
Wildlife
Bandipur National Park is home to several endangered species, including tigers, elephants, leopards, dholes, and sloth bears. The park is also home to several species of deer, such as spotted deer, sambar deer, and barking deer. Visitors can also spot langurs, macaques, wild boars, and several species of birds.
Safari
The park offers jeep safaris that are conducted twice a day, in the morning and evening. Visitors can also opt for a bus safari that is conducted in the morning. These safaris are a great way to explore the park and spot its diverse wildlife.
Things To Do Around
Visitors can explore the nearby villages and learn about the local culture and lifestyle. They can also visit the Gopalaswamy Betta temple, which is located near the park and is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning views.
Apart from exploring the wildlife and nature in the Bandipur National Park, there are several other things to do around Bandipur. Here are some of the activities that visitors can indulge in:
Visit the Gopalaswamy Betta Temple:
1. Located near the park, the Gopalaswamy Betta Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Explore the nearby villages:
2. Visitors can explore the nearby villages and learn about the local culture and lifestyle. They can interact with the local communities, visit their homes, and learn about their traditions and customs.
Trekking and Hiking:
3. The hills and forests around Bandipur offer several trekking and hiking trails for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the scenic beauty of the hills, forests, and waterfalls while trekking or hiking.
Visit the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Wildlife Sanctuary:
4. Located near Bandipur, the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to explore the wildlife and nature of the region. The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna and is a great place for bird watching and wildlife sightings.
Go on a cycling tour:
5. Cycling tours are a great way to explore the scenic beauty of the region. Visitors can cycle through the nearby villages, forests, and hills and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Visit the Moyar River:
6. The Moyar River flows through the Bandipur National Park and is a great place for a picnic. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the river and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Enjoy local cuisine:
7. Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine of the region, which is known for its unique flavors and spices. The local cuisine includes dishes like Bisi Bele Bath, Mysore Pak, Ragi Mudde, and Akki Roti.
These are some of the activities that visitors can indulge in while exploring the beauty of Bandipur National Park and its surroundings.
How to Reach?
Bandipur National Park is located in the southern part of India and is well-connected to various parts of the country. Here's how to reach Bandipur National Park by air, road, and train:
By Air: 1. The nearest airport to Bandipur National Park is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is approximately 220 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bandipur National Park.
By Rail: 3. The nearest railway station to Bandipur National Park is Mysore Junction, which is approximately 80 km away. From the station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bandipur National Park. Alternatively, visitors can also take a train to Nanjangud or Chamarajanagar, which are the nearest railway stations to Bandipur National Park.
By Road: 2. Bandipur National Park is well-connected to major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala through a network of well-maintained roads. Visitors can reach Bandipur National Park by bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Ooty, and Coimbatore.
In summary, visitors can reach Bandipur National Park by air, road, and train. The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, the nearest railway station is Mysore Junction, and the park is well-connected to major cities in the region by a network of well-maintained roads.
Weather
The weather in Bhandipur National Park is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October and May when the weather is cool and dry. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall and is not an ideal time to visit the park.
Best Season
The best season to travel to Bandipur National Park is between October and May, which is also the park's peak season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the park is open for visitors. Here is a breakdown of the seasons and weather conditions in Bandipur National Park:
Winter (December to February):
1. Winter is the peak season in Bandipur National Park, and the weather during this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C. The park is lush green, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.
Summer (March to May):
2. Summer in Bandipur National Park is hot, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C. The park is dry, and the foliage is sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife near water sources. This is a good time for bird watching, and the park also organizes night safaris during this time.
Monsoon (June to September):
3. Monsoon season in Bandipur National Park is not a good time to visit, as the park remains closed due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides.
Overall, the best time to visit Bandipur National Park is during the winter and early summer months, between October and May, when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.
Who Can Travel?
Bandipur National Park is open to all visitors, including domestic and international tourists. The park is suitable for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and families with children. However, visitors are advised to follow the park's rules and regulations and respect the park's wildlife and natural habitat.
It is important to note that Bandipur National Park is a protected area, and visitors are not allowed to venture into the park without prior permission from the forest department. Visitors must obtain a permit and book a safari tour before entering the park. The forest department also conducts a mandatory orientation program for visitors to educate them about the park's rules and regulations and safety guidelines.
Visitors are also advised to carry appropriate clothing and gear, such as comfortable shoes, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. It is also recommended to carry insect repellent and a first-aid kit.
Overall, Bandipur National Park is a great destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife and wants to experience the beauty and diversity of the Indian wilderness.
When to Do the Bookings?
It is recommended to book in advance if you are planning to visit Bandipur National Park, especially during peak season, which is between October and May. The park limits the number of visitors per day to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife, and booking in advance guarantees your entry into the park.
Booking for Bandipur National Park can be done online through the official website of the Karnataka Forest Department or through various travel agencies and tour operators. The online booking system allows visitors to select the date and time of their safari tour and pay for the permits and other fees online.
Visitors are advised to book their safari tour at least a month in advance to ensure availability, especially if they are traveling during peak season. The forest department also conducts a mandatory orientation program for visitors before the safari tour, which includes safety guidelines, rules and regulations, and general information about the park.
Stay Facility
Bandipur National Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the stay facilities in Bandipur National Park:
Forest Department Guest Houses:
1. The Forest Department offers basic guesthouses and dormitory-style accommodation inside the park for visitors. These guesthouses are located in various locations in the park and offer a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness up close. The facilities are basic, but visitors can expect clean rooms and shared bathrooms.
Safari Lodges and Resorts:
2. There are several safari lodges and resorts located around Bandipur National Park, offering a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly tents to luxurious villas. These lodges and resorts offer modern amenities like air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, and swimming pools. Many of these properties also organize safari tours and other activities inside the park.
Jungle Camps:
3. Several jungle camps are located in and around Bandipur National Park, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience of the wilderness. These camps offer a range of accommodation options, from tents to treehouses, and are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Visitors can expect basic facilities like shared bathrooms and dining areas but can also experience activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, and nature walks.
Overall, visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation options in Bandipur National Park, depending on their budget and preferences. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and a hassle-free experience.
Itinerary
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DAY 1
Transfer to Hotel & Safari
Upon your arrival at the airport/railway station in Bangalore, you will be greeted by our representative, who will then transfer you to your hotel in Bandipur National Park. After checking in and freshening up, you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of the hotel. You will then be served lunch, followed by an afternoon jungle safari in the national park. The safari will be conducted in a jeep, and you will have the opportunity to spot various animals such as tigers, elephants, deer, and more. After the safari, you will return to the hotel, where you will be served dinner.
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DAY 2
Nature Walk & Safari
After breakfast, you will head out for a nature walk in the forest, accompanied by a naturalist who will provide you with insights into the flora and fauna of the region. You can expect to see a variety of birds, butterflies, and plants during the walk. After the nature walk, you will return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, you will go on your second jungle safari of the trip. Once again, you will have the chance to spot various animals and birds in their natural habitat. After the safari, you will return to the hotel, where you will be served dinner.
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DAY 3
Birding & Safari
After breakfast, you will embark on a birding tour with an experienced guide, who will help you spot a variety of birds that are unique to the region. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the behavior and habits of these birds. After the birding tour, you will return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, you will go on your third and final jungle safari in the national park. You can expect to spot more wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the park during this safari. After the safari, you will return to the hotel, where you will be served dinner.
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DAY 4
Return Journey
After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport/railway station in Bangalore for your onward journey. This marks the end of your memorable trip to Bandipur National Park.
know your safari
Each day in the forest during a safari in India can be different depending on the national park or reserve you are visiting and the type of safari you have chosen. However, here are some typical activities you can expect during a safari in India:
Early morning safari
Most national parks offer an early morning safari, which starts before sunrise. During this time, you have a higher chance of spotting wildlife as they are active during the cooler hours of the day.
Breakfast
After the morning safari, you will return to your accommodation for breakfast.
Leisure time
You can use this time to rest, explore the surrounding area, or participate in any additional activities offered by the park.
Afternoon safari
In the afternoon, you can go for another safari to explore different parts of the national park and spot more wildlife.
Evening activities
Once the safari is over, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or go birdwatching. Some national parks also offer cultural programs or documentaries related to wildlife in the evening.
Dinner
You can enjoy a sumptuous dinner at your accommodation, which is usually included in the package.
Note:The schedule may vary depending on the park's timings and the type of safari you choose. Some national parks also offer different types of safaris, such as elephant safaris, canoe safaris, or walking safaris, which may have a different schedule.
Here are some essential things you should pack for a jungle safari:
Clothing
Comfortable and breathable clothing is a must for a jungle safari. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are recommended to protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki or beige is also recommended to blend in with the surroundings. It's also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for early morning or late evening safaris when it can get chilly.
Footwear
Closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction are recommended for a jungle safari. Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals as they do not provide adequate protection. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of socks that can keep your feet warm during early morning or late evening safaris.
Insect repellent
A good quality insect repellent is essential to protect you from mosquito bites and other insects.
Sunscreen
The sun can be intense in the jungle, so it's important to pack a sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
Hat or cap
A hat or cap can protect your face and neck from the sun and also help you blend in with the surroundings.
Binoculars
A pair of binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience by allowing you to see animals that are far away.
Camera
A camera is a must to capture the amazing wildlife and landscape of the jungle. Make sure you pack an extra memory card and batteries.
Water bottle and snacks
It's important to stay hydrated during the safari, so pack a water bottle and some snacks such as energy bars or nuts.
First aid kit
Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.
Flashlight or headlamp
A flashlight or headlamp can be useful during early morning or late evening safaris and also if you need to walk around in the dark.
Remember to pack light as you will be moving around a lot during the safari. It's also important to check with your tour operator or accommodation provider if they provide any additional items or equipment that you may need during the safari.
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