Bandipur National Park is located in the state of Karnataka, India, near the city of Mysore. It was established in 1974 as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger, and is now part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park covers an area of 874 square kilometers and is known for its diverse wildlife and lush forests.
Bandipur National Park is situated in the southern part of Karnataka, bordering the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The park is located in the Western Ghats mountain range, which is known for its rich biodiversity. The terrain of the park is varied, with hills, valleys, and dense forests making up the landscape.
The park is open to visitors from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM in the morning and from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM in the evening. It is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance.
There is an entry fee for visitors to the park, which varies depending on the category of the visitor. The fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 300 for adults and Rs. 150 for children. Foreign nationals are charged Rs. 1500 per person.
Bandipur National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is known for its population of tigers, elephants, and other large mammals. It is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the park.
Visitors to Bandipur National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs for those interested in learning more about the wildlife and ecosystems of the area.
The charges for a jeep safari in Bandipur National Park vary depending on the duration of the safari and the number of people in the vehicle. A standard safari lasts for approximately 2-3 hours and costs around Rs. 1500 per person.
The entry fee for visitors to Bandipur National Park is based on age and gender. For Indian nationals, the fee is Rs. 300 for adult males, Rs. 150 for adult females, and Rs. 75 for children. Foreign nationals are charged Rs. 1500 per person regardless of age or gender.
Senior citizens visiting Bandipur National Park are eligible for a discounted entry fee. Those aged 60 and above can enter the park for Rs. 150, regardless of gender.
The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is mild and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities.
There are several other attractions near Bandipur National Park that visitors can explore. These include the Gopalaswamy Betta hill, the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, and the Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu.
There is a designated parking area for vehicles near the entrance of Bandipur National Park. Visitors can park their cars or buses in the designated parking lot and proceed to the ticket counter to enter the park.
Visitors to Bandipur National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the environment. These include not feeding or disturbing the animals, not littering, and staying on designated trails during safaris and nature walks.
Bandipur National Park is easily accessible by road from Mysore, which is approximately 80 km away. The nearest airport is in Bangalore, around 220 km from the park. Visitors can also take a train to Mysore and then hire a taxi or bus to reach the park. Accommodation options are available near the park for those looking to stay overnight and explore the area further.
Overall, Bandipur National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, the park offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.