Bandipur National
Park
One of India's best-known wildlife reserves
- Bandipur National Park is situated within Chamarajanagar district
in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, and abuts the states
of Tamil Nadu & Kerala. Endowed with a moderate climate
and diverse geographical features, the park supports a remarkable
variety of flora and fauna, making it a veritable paradise for
wildlife.
In 1973, Bandipur became one of the first
of India's Tiger Reserves and the southernmost of the nine reserves
specially established under Project Tiger. In 1974, intention
was declared under the Wildlife Protection Act to notify it
as a National Park.
Flora & Fauna in Bandipur National
Park
The scrub jungles towards the eastern
limits of the park consist of stunted trees, interspersed with
bushes and open grassy patches. Towards its northwestern fringes,
there is a gradual shift in the vegetation from open dry deciduous
forests to tropical mixed deciduous forests. These diverse habitats
support an enormous diversity of animal life.
With the onset of pre-monsoon showers in April,
Bandipur begins to unfold in all its glory. The resident birds
commence their breeding activities. The air is filled with their
melodious calls. Sprouting grass in the meadows and view lines
attract elephants and the majestic gaur in large numbers. For
the tourist who comes to watch the larger mammals in their natural
surroundings, Bandipur is a paradise from April to October.
Even before this, during summer, when dryness prevails over
most parts of Bandipur, the backwaters of the Kabini Reservoir
in the northwestern portion of the park host huge congregations
of large mammals, especially the elephant and the gaur. This
unique feature makes a breathtaking spectacle, and is almost
the only one of its kind in Asia. Bandipur has a sizeable population
of wildlife - elephant, spotted deer and sambar, gaur and flying
squirrel, four horned antelope, Nilgiri langur and sloth bear.
Amongst the reserve’s most prominent animals are its 1,900-odd
elephants. The Royal Bengal tiger (75 in the Park) and leopard
are even more elusive here than elsewhere because the moister
region that they inhabit falls under the protected core area
where casual visitors are not allowed.
Entry Requirements
All visitors to Bandipur have to get entry
permits at the entrance to the park. Additional charges are
levied for cameras, vehicles, and elephant or jeep rides.
Best Time to Visit Bandipur National
Park
The ideal time to visit the Bandipur National
Park is between the months of April and October.
How to Get there
Air : The
nearest airport is at Bangalore which is 220 km from Bandipur.
Rail : Mysore
is nearest railhead, at a distance of 80-kms.
Road : 220
km from Bangalore; 80 km from Mysore; 80 km from Ooty.