Bandipur - India Travel Guide hero image

Bandipur!

india-guide.in

groups

Population

Various

schedule

Best Time

September to May

calendar_month

Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

currency_rupee

Currency

Rupee (₹)

View full travel guide
See timings and practical tips

Plan by Intent

Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.

photo_camera

Did You Visit Bandipur?

Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit

location_on Karnataka map South India 🦁 Wildlife Bandipur Tiger Reserve Karnataka Wildlife Safari South India

Bandipur National Park, nestled in Karnataka, is a significant tiger reserve and a haven for diverse wildlife. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it borders Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Bandipur offers thrilling wildlife sightings and a chance to experience India's natural beauty. However, tiger sightings are not guaranteed, and the safari experience can sometimes feel crowded. The park is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Reaching Bandipur requires travel from nearby cities like Mysore or Bangalore. Plan for at least two days to fully experience the park and its surroundings. Booking safaris in advance is highly recommended.

When To Visit

Best Time

September to May

20-35 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for wildlife spotting. The vegetation is less dense, improving visibility.

Why Visit:

This period offers the best chance to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities like safaris and nature walks. Bird watching is also excellent during this time.

Tip: Book safaris and accommodation well in advance, as this is peak season. Expect higher prices.

Shoulder Season

June to August

25-30 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery. The park looks beautiful, but wildlife sightings become more challenging.

Why Visit:

The landscape is vibrant and green, providing a unique perspective. Fewer tourists visit during this time, offering a more secluded experience.

Tip: Safari operations may be limited due to heavy rain. Roads can be muddy and difficult to navigate.

Avoid

July-August

22-28 degrees C

Heavy rainfall makes safaris difficult and many internal roads impassable.

Why Avoid:

Visiting during peak monsoon can be disappointing due to limited safari availability and poor visibility. The chances of spotting wildlife are significantly reduced.

Note: Some accommodations may offer discounted rates. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Bandipur National Park Safari

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹350 (Indians), ₹2000 (foreigners)

The main attraction is the jeep safari through the national park. It provides an opportunity to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and various bi...

Read more arrow_forward

Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta

⏱ 2 hours Free

This hilltop temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests. It's dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a serene place to visit....

Read more arrow_forward

Bandipur Interpretation Centre

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

This center provides information about the flora, fauna, and conservation efforts in Bandipur National Park. It's a good place to learn about the ecos...

Read more arrow_forward

Mudumalai National Park (Nearby)

⏱ Full day ₹150 (Indians), ₹750 (foreigners)

Mudumalai is another national park bordering Bandipur, offering similar wildlife experiences. Consider a day trip to explore its unique landscapes....

Read more arrow_forward

BR Hills (Biligiriranga Hills)

⏱ Full day Free

BR Hills is a hill station known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. It's a great place to escape the heat and enjoy nature....

Read more arrow_forward

Masinagudi

⏱ Half day Free (for the town itself; safaris extra)

Masinagudi is a small town near Bandipur, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a good base for exploring the surrounding area....

Read more arrow_forward

Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

⏱ Full day trip Varies by attraction

Ooty is a popular hill station known for its tea gardens, lakes, and colonial architecture. It's a refreshing escape from the plains....

Read more arrow_forward
View all attraction details

Things To Do

attractions

Jeep Safari

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹350 (Indians), ₹2000 (foreigners) per person

Explore the park in an open jeep, accompanied by a forest guide. This is the primary way to spot wildlife in Bandipur....

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Nature Walk

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹150 per person

Embark on a guided nature walk to explore the park's flora and fauna. Get a closer look at the smaller creatures and pla...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Bird Watching

⏱ 2-4 hours 💰 Free (excluding guide fees)

Bandipur is home to a variety of bird species. Explore the park with a local guide for the best chances of spotting them...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Elephant Camp Visit (Nearby)

⏱ 2 hours 💰 ₹50 per person

Visit an elephant camp near Bandipur to learn about elephant conservation efforts. Observe elephants being cared for and...

Read more arrow_forward

Cultural Experiences

celebration

Soliga Tribal Culture

Half day | ₹500-1000 (donation to the community)

The Soliga are an indigenous tribe residing in the BR Hills region. They have a unique culture and w...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Local Market Visit

1-2 hours | Free

Visit the local market in Gundlupet to experience the local culture. It's a bustling place where far...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Temple Visit

1-2 hours | Free

Visit the Gopalaswamy Betta temple for a spiritual experience. This ancient temple is dedicated to L...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Kannada Language Class

1 hour | ₹200-300

Learn some basic Kannada phrases to enhance your interaction with the locals. It's a great way to sh...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Traditional South Indian Cooking Class

2-3 hours | ₹800-1500

Learn to prepare traditional South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar. Experience the flavors...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Folk Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹300-500 (donation to the performers)

Experience the vibrant folk dances of Karnataka. These dances reflect the local traditions and custo...

Read more arrow_forward
View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Bisi Bele Bath
Bisi Bele Bath

Lentil and rice dish (try at local restaurants in Gundlupet)

Mysore Masala Dosa
Mysore Masala Dosa

Crispy crepe filled with spiced potatoes

Idli Sambar
Idli Sambar

Steamed rice cakes with lentil soup

Uttapam
Uttapam

Thick pancake with vegetables

Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee

Strong, aromatic coffee

Where to Eat

The Serai Bandipur Restaurant

The Serai Bandipur Restaurant

₹₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 The Serai Bandipur

Elegant restaurant with a relaxing ambiance. Offers a wide variety of dishes to suit different tastes. Good service and quality food.

Indian and Continental dishes

₹1500-2500 for two

Dhole's Den Restaurant

Dhole's Den Restaurant

₹₹

Indian and Continental

📍 Dhole's Den

Eco-friendly restaurant with a focus on sustainable cuisine. Offers a unique dining experience with fresh and flavorful dishes. Good for vegetarians.

Organic and locally sourced ingredients

₹800-1500 for two

Street Food Spots

Gundlupet Market

Gundlupet Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious about hygiene and choose vendors with clean stalls. Try the local sweets.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Bandipur

More restaurants & dishes from Bandipur

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Bandipur Village

Good for budget travelers and those wanting to be close to the safari booking center. It can get crowded during peak season.

Best For: Budget travelers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mangala Village

Offers a more peaceful and secluded experience. It's a good option for families and couples looking for a relaxing getaway.

Best For: Families and couples.

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

MC Resort

📍 Near Bandipur National Park

Basic but clean rooms, close to the safari booking center. Offers good value for money.

₹800-1500/night

Bandipur Safari Lodge - Dormitory

📍 Bandipur Village

Dormitory-style accommodation for budget travelers. Simple and functional.

₹500-800/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹4000-8000/night

The Serai Bandipur

📍 Mangala Village

Comfortable cottages with modern amenities. Features a swimming pool and restaurant.

₹4000-8000/night

Dhole's Den

📍 Near Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Eco-friendly resort with a focus on sustainability. Offers guided nature walks and wildlife experiences.

₹3500-7000/night

Luxury

₹8000+/night

Windflower Jungle Resorts & Spa Bandipur

📍 Gundlupet

Luxurious resort with spacious rooms and excellent service. Features a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.

₹8000+/night

Tusker Trails Bandipur

📍 Near Bandipur National Park

Upscale resort offering luxurious tents and cottages. Provides exclusive wildlife experiences and personalized service.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), 220km from Bandipur

train

By Train

Stations:

Mysore Junction (MYS)

Major railway station with frequent trains from Bangalore and other cities. Located about 80km from Bandipur.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹1500-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 20-24 hours (₹1200-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Bangalore Bus Stand (KSRTC)
  • Mysore Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Bangalore: 6-7 hours (₹500-800)
  • From Mysore: 2-3 hours (₹200-300)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long journeys.

Getting Around

directions

Jeep

💰 Included in safari cost.

Best for: Wildlife viewing inside the park.

Book in advance. Respect the driver and follow their instructions.

directions_bus

Bus

💰 ₹20-50 per trip

Best for: Traveling between Bandipur and nearby towns.

Buses can be crowded. Check the schedule in advance.

directions

Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹500-1000 per day (taxi), ₹50-100 per trip (auto-rickshaw)

Best for: Short trips within Bandipur and nearby areas.

Negotiate the price before starting the journey.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and neutral-colored clothing for safaris. Pack layers as the weather can change quickly. Bring a hat and sunscreen.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Gundlupet. Carry enough cash for Bandipur.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller establishments. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and resorts.

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or purified water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Sunburn, dehydration, and insect bites. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and stay hydrated.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio have good coverage. A local SIM card costs ₹200-300.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and resorts.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is spoken by most people in the tourism industry. Learning a few basic Kannada phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

Nearby Destinations

Explore More Of India

Hospet - India Travel Guide

Hospet - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
  • Hampi Bazaar
  • Vijaya Vittala Temple

+3 more attractions

Rajnandgaon - India Travel Guide

Rajnandgaon - India Travel Guide

map Central India

Top Attractions:

  • Bambleshwari Temple, Dongargarh
  • Pragya Giri, Dongargarh
  • Shiv Mandir, Rajnandgaon

+3 more attractions

Solapur - India Travel Guide

Solapur - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Siddheshwar Temple
  • Akkalkot Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple
  • Solapur Science Centre

+3 more attractions

Ganapatipule - India Travel Guide

Ganapatipule - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Swayambhu Ganpati Temple
  • Ganapatipule Beach
  • Prachin Konkan Museum

+3 more attractions

Ayodhya - India Travel Guide

Ayodhya - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Ram Janmabhoomi Temple
  • Hanuman Garhi
  • Kanak Bhavan

+3 more attractions

Channarayapatna - India Travel Guide

Channarayapatna - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Shravanabelagola
  • Adikesava Temple
  • Jain Math

+2 more attractions

Mount Abu - India Travel Guide

Mount Abu - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Dilwara Jain Temples
  • Nakki Lake
  • Guru Shikhar

+3 more attractions

Jamshedpur - India Travel Guide

Jamshedpur - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • Jubilee Park
  • Tata Steel Zoological Park
  • Dimna Lake

+3 more attractions

Share Your Bandipur Photos!

Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!

Found an Error?

Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.

Suggest a Destination

Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!