Best months
Per-day budget
₹1,450–2,200/day
Getting there
Bandipur National Park is a 912 sq km tiger reserve in Karnataka, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is one of the best places in South India to see tigers, elephants, gaurs and leopards. The park is part of the Bandipur-Mudumalai-Wayanad-Nagarhole complex — the largest contiguous protected forest in South India. The park was originally the hunting reserve of the Maharaja of Mysore. The main activity is the jeep safari through the forest. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The area is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, rail and air. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups.
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Why go
Bandipur has a high density of Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, Indian gaurs and spotted deer. The morning and evening safaris (₹600-800 per person) cover the main zones. The park is also home to leopards, dhole (wild dogs), sloth bears and 300+ bird species. The Moyar River and Kabini River are the main water sources — best for elephant sightings in summer.
The forest is a mix of dry deciduous forest with teak and rosewood trees. The Himavad Gopalswamy Hill (1,450 m) has a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The park is at the meeting point of the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats. The nearby Mudumalai National Park is adjacent. The Gopalswamy Betta viewpoint overlooks the entire forest.
How to reach
Bandipur is 80 km from Mysuru (2 hours) and 210 km from Bangalore (4-5 hours). Buses from Mysuru (₹100-150) and Ooty (₹100-200) stop at Bandipur. The nearest railway station is Mysuru (80 km). The nearest airport is Mysuru (80 km).
What a day costs
| Budget hotel | ₹600–1,000 |
| Food (South Indian) | ₹150–250 |
| Safari (per person) | ₹600–800 |
| Bus from Mysuru | ₹100–150 |
When to go
October to March is best. March-May is summer — animals gather at waterholes, best for tiger viewing. November-February is cool. June-September is monsoon — park is closed for safaris.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Safari
Arrive in Bandipur. Check in. Afternoon jeep safari (3-6 PM). Evening at the Bandipur forest museum.
Day 2: Morning Safari
Morning safari (6-9 AM). Visit the Gopalswamy Betta viewpoint. Depart for Mysuru or Ooty.
Student hacks
- ▸Share a jeep safari (₹600-800 per person) — cheaper than private booking (₹2,500+).
- ▸Book safari online a week in advance for peak season (December-February).
- ▸Visit in April-May for the best tiger and elephant sightings.
- ▸Bus from Mysuru to Bandipur costs ₹100-150.
- ▸Stay at the forest guesthouse (₹600-1,000) — book through the forest department.
- ▸Carry binoculars and a zoom lens for wildlife viewing.
Safety & permits
Safari permit needed — book online through the forest department website. Shared jeep (₹600-800 per person) is the budget option. The safari has strict timings — morning 6-9 AM, evening 3-6 PM. ATMs in Gundlupet (15 km).
FAQs
How do I reach Bandipur from Delhi?
Flight to Mysuru (3 hours) then bus to Bandipur (2 hours, ₹100-150).
What is Bandipur known for?
Tiger reserve, elephants, jeep safaris in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
How many days do I need?
2 days — one for arrival, one for morning safari.