Bandipur National Park, also a Tiger Reserve, was once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Mysore. Today, it is a protected area spanning over 874 sq. km in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. Known for its vast landscapes and effective forest management, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park is a crucial part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, making it one of the largest protected wildlife zones in South India.
History of Bandipur National Park
The park’s origins date back to 1931 when the Maharaja of Mysore set aside 90 sq. km for wildlife protection. Initially called Venugopala Wildlife Park, its area was expanded by approximately 800 sq. km after India’s independence. In 1973, under Project Tiger, it was designated as Bandipur Tiger Reserve and later became an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which includes adjoining national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Flora in Bandipur National Park
The park offers breathtaking landscapes, featuring scrub jungles, dry and wet deciduous forests, and shrublands with diverse flowering species. The Nugu River enhances the region’s natural beauty and sustains wildlife. The riparian zone of the park, especially near Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. This peak, popular among hikers and pilgrims, is home to a Hindu temple, sandalwood trees, and watering holes frequently visited by elephants.
As the seasons change, Bandipur comes alive with the vibrant blooms of trees like the Kadam tree, Indian gooseberry, crape-myrtle, and golden shower tree. The eastern parts of the park feature open grasslands and stunted trees, creating a unique and varied landscape.
Fauna in Bandipur National Park
Bandipur’s rich biodiversity is sustained by various natural water bodies, with the Kabini Reservoir in the north being a major water source, attracting wildlife throughout the year. The Moyar River in the south and the Nugu River in the center further contribute to the park’s thriving ecosystem.
Visitors can spot diverse wildlife, including gaurs, jackals, marsh crocodiles (muggers), antelopes, sambar deer, mouse deer, chital, sloth bears, elephants, and majestic tigers. The park is also home to numerous bird species such as peafowl, junglefowl, drongos, red-headed vultures, kingfishers, ospreys, and even aquatic species like the Indian rock python. Butterflies like the common rose, common jay, lime butterfly, and blue Mormon add to the park’s vibrant ecosystem.
Wildlife Safaris
Bandipur offers jeep safaris and bus/canter safaris, conducted twice daily – in the morning and evening. The best wildlife sightings occur between March and May, when animals gather at water bodies. Birdwatching remains a favorite activity throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Bandipur National Park
Bandipur is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts from April to October. The summer months are ideal for spotting large mammals, especially elephants and gaurs, near the Kabini backwaters. The monsoon season (June to September) offers a unique opportunity to witness elephant herds in lush green surroundings.
The park is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Bangalore (215 km away), while Mysore serves as the closest railway station, providing easy access from cities like Bangalore and Hassan.
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