10 Best Attraction in Bandipur Sanctuary

India is full of tourist destinations like hill stations, historical places, religious places, wildlife, and unexplored places which has an attraction on a large number of tourists from all corners of the world throughout the year. This also includes the most lovely National Parks in India which must be unavoidable. Now we will know about Bandipur National Park located in  Karnataka India.

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What are 10 Best Attraction in Bandipur Sanctuary to visit?

Established in 1974 as part of the Tiger Forest Reserve Tiger Project, Bandipur national park has many attention in Karnataka in southern India, known for its diversity of wildlife and various biomass. The wood is dry and decaying. 

Bandipur National Park is situated about 85 kilometres from the city of Mysore to Ooty, one of the most prominent hotspots in the country with a beautiful temperature extent of 24 to 28°C all year round. Visitors will continue with a unique tour of the animals. 

While enjoying the main attraction a safari in Bandipur, you can stay and camp in the area. The boundary of this national park is connected by three national parks Nagarahole National Park, Wayanad National Park, and Mudumalai Nation Park which are banned by traffic due to a decrease in the death rate of wildlife.

The license to operate a jeep safari is allowed only for jungle resorts and lodges. The range office of the forest department only runs the mini bus safari which operates from 6.15 am to 9 am and 2.15 pm to 5 pm. It costs Indian rupees 350 per head whereas Rs. 3000/- per head costs for a jeep safari. The other attraction elephant safari is no longer available though tracking is still continued. 

This national park provides safe access to visitors with the gregarious efforts of the forest department and other NGOs. The forest department is taking all the necessary steps to provide accommodations, food, and other amenities for all classes of the society keeping in view their pocket. 

Most of the vegetation of the garden is composed of dry deciduous woods, but the biomes vary. The plain of the world consists of damp woods, trees, rivers, and plains. There is a Hindu temple in the area that adds to your cultural and historical nature to explore. Lots of dry and moist woods and other related plants make it a great wildlife attraction. 

The wildlife of Bandipur National Park

Wildlife is particularly popular at national parks. The population of tigers in Bandipur comes at 2nd number but it still has the problem to watch them due to the dense vegetation. Along with tigers, the park is home to other endangered species, including the Indian elephant, the sluggish bear, wild dogs, the quadruped deer, the gaura and the Indian giant squirrel.

The most notable animals that visitors can look for are elephants in North America, grey langur, chital and giant Native American. Other attraction is species that visitors can expect include tiger, leopard, gaur, heart sambar, sloth bear, wild boar, coin jack and antelope. 

Many people don’t expect it, but Bandipur is also home to the Indian Rock Python, the proven Cobra, spotted snakes, monitor lizards, lizards and the Indian flying chameleon. Peacocks are the most likely species to grow in the wild. The Indian warriors, the bees, the kingfishers, the kingfisher, river eagles, and the hawks were changed.

Here’s a detailed 1000-word article on the 10 Best Attraction in Bandipur National Park, covering nature, wildlife, and unique experiences you can enjoy there.

10 Best Attraction in Bandipur National Park

Located in the southern state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves and an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Spread over 874 square kilometers, it is home to rich biodiversity, lush forests, and scenic landscapes that attract nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers from all over the world. Once a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Mysore, it is now a protected sanctuary where endangered species thrive.

Here are the 10 best attraction that make Bandipur National Park a must-visit destination.

1. Jungle Safari

The most thrilling way to explore Bandipur is through its guided jungle safaris, organized by the Forest Department. You can choose between jeep safaris, bus safaris, or minibus safaris, each offering a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

• What to see: Elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, sambars, wild boars, leopards, and if you’re lucky, the elusive Bengal tiger.
• Best time: Early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM), when animals are most active.
• Tip: Carry binoculars and wear earthy-toned clothes to blend with the environment.

2. Gopalaswamy Betta

Perched at 1,450 meters above sea level, Gopalaswamy Betta is the highest peak in Bandipur and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the forest. The hilltop is home to the centuries-old Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.

• Highlight: Misty mornings here are magical, with clouds hanging low over the hills.
• Wildlife note: The surrounding area is known for frequent elephant sightings.
• Travel tip: The approach road is scenic but steep; only government-permitted vehicles are allowed to drive up.

3. Moyar Gorge

Located on the boundary between Bandipur and Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu, the Moyar Gorge (also called Moyar Canyon) is a dramatic river gorge carved by the Moyar River.

• Why visit: The views are spectacular, especially during or after the monsoon when the river is full.
• Wildlife spotting: Animals often come here to drink water, making it a great place for photographers.
• Access: Requires permission from forest authorities for entry.

4. Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple

A serene spiritual spot inside the park, the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple is over 700 years old and shrouded in mist for most of the year.

• Cultural appeal: The temple architecture reflects the Hoysala style and is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Gopala form.
• Location advantage: Being the highest point in the park, the temple provides a sweeping view of rolling hills and dense forests.

5. Kabini River

Although the main Kabini River flows in the neighboring Nagarhole region, the backwaters and tributaries extend close to Bandipur, creating lush landscapes and attracting a variety of wildlife.

• Attractions: Birdwatching is superb here, with species like painted storks, kingfishers, and crested serpent eagles.
• Activity: Nature walks along the riverbanks or boat rides (in nearby Kabini) add to the experience.

6. Birdwatching Hotspots

Bandipur is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 200 species of birds recorded.

• Popular sightings: Indian roller, grey junglefowl, Malabar pied hornbill, peafowl, and parakeets.
• Best time: Winter months (November to February) when migratory species arrive.
• Tip: Early morning walks or post-safari hours are best for bird photography.

7. The Tiger Reserve Core Zone

The core zone of Bandipur is where the chances of spotting tigers are highest. While tiger sightings are never guaranteed, the thrill of searching for this apex predator adds excitement to every safari.

• Why it’s special: Bandipur is part of India’s Project Tiger and supports a stable tiger population.
• Experience: Trained naturalists share fascinating insights about tiger behavior, tracks, and conservation efforts.

8. Wildlife Interpretation Centre

Located near the park’s entrance at Melukamanahalli, the Wildlife Interpretation Centre is a must-visit for those who want to understand the park’s ecosystem.

• What to expect: Informative displays, photographs, and models explaining the flora, fauna, and conservation history of Bandipur.
• Best for: Families, school groups, and first-time visitors who want a deeper understanding before the safari.

9. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve Exploration

Bandipur is part of the UNESCO-recognized Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which includes adjacent parks like Nagarhole, Mudumalai, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Extended trips: Visitors can explore these nearby parks to experience varied landscapes and wildlife.
• Highlight: This interconnected forest region is one of the largest stretches of protected forest in southern India.

10. Nature Trails and Eco-Tours

For those who prefer a slower pace than a safari, Bandipur offers guided nature trails and eco-tours in designated buffer areas.

• What you see: Medicinal plants, giant termite mounds, colorful butterflies, and smaller mammals like the Malabar giant squirrel.
• Benefit: These walks are conducted by trained guides who share knowledge about forest ecology and animal tracking.

Best Time to Visit Bandipur National Park

• Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, great for safaris and birdwatching.
• Summer (March to May): Hot but excellent for spotting animals near water sources.
• Monsoon (June to September): Lush greenery but safaris may be restricted due to heavy rains.

Travel Tips

• Accommodation: Choose from forest lodges, eco-resorts, and budget hotels near the park gates.
• Entry permits: Book safaris and special visits through the official Karnataka Forest Department portal or authorized operators.
• Safety: Do not get off vehicles inside the core zone, avoid loud noises, and follow all instructions from guides.

The main tourist places near this national park are:

Mysore 

This place is known as the cultural city of Karnataka which is the biggest city in the state. There are several places worth seeing in the state, particularly for agriculture lovers. 

Kabini 

This place has the main attraction of the Kabini river and the jungle safari with lush green grounds and jungles. This area is the first choice for tourists who love hanging in the lonely fresh air with a lush green environment.

Wayanad 

This area is known for its hills, wildlife sanctuaries, and trading of different unique products. This is the best location in the state with paddy fields.

Ooty 

is the capital of the Nilgiri district and known as the queen of hills. This place is the perfect weekend gateway for visitors and is well-equipped with different kinds of picnic spots.

Best time to visit Bandipur National Park

How to reach Bandipur National Park