ABOUT BANDIPUR NATIONAL PARK
Bandipur National Park, situated amidst the captivating Western Ghat Mountains on the Mysore-Ooty highway in Karnataka, is renowned as one of India’s most breathtaking and well-maintained national parks. Encompassing an area of approximately 874.2 sq km, it forms a part of the extensive Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, along with Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, and Nagarhole National Park in the North.
Fauna and Flora in Bandipur National Park
The park holds significant importance in India’s conservation efforts, making strides towards eco-preservation. Notably, Bandipur is home to a substantial population of Tigers. Apart from these majestic creatures, the park boasts diverse wildlife, including gaur, sambhar, chital, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild dogs, wild boar, jackal, sloth bear, panther, malabar squirrel, porcupines, and black-knapped hare. Additionally, one can witness a variety of bird species, such as jungle fowl and green pigeon, gracing the picturesque forest with their presence in Bandipur National Park.
Teak, rosewood, sandalwood, Indian kino tree, Indian laurel, clumping bamboo, and giant clumping bamboo thrive abundantly within the park’s lush forest. As you explore further, you can also find axle wood, black cutch, indigo berry, golden shower tree, black myrobalan, flame of the forest, kadam tree, Indian gooseberry, and various other flowering and fruit-bearing trees. Additionally, tamarind, mango, and several other common tree species add to the diverse flora of this enchanting sanctuary in Bandipur National Park.
Famous destinations in close proximity to Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, also known as Gopalaswamy Hills, stands majestically within the core area of Bandipur National Park. The name “Himavad” derives from the perennial mist enveloping the mountain, while “Betta” means mountain in the local Kannada language. This hill, at a height of 1,450 meters above sea level, is a favored spot for wildlife sightings, particularly elephants.
Nearby Popular Places:
- Thekkady: Located in the Idukki district, Thekkady fascinates with its diverse flora and fauna, offering various activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, and wildlife spotting.
- Wayanad: Renowned for its lush paddy fields and nestled amidst the Western Ghat mountains, Wayanad offers picturesque landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries to explore.
- Kabini: Defined by the scenic Kabini River, this area houses the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary, offering pristine natural surroundings and rejuvenating experiences.
- Mysore: Often referred to as the “City of Palaces,” Mysore is a cultural gem with its magnificent palaces and historic charm, including the splendid Mysore Palace illuminated at night.
- Ooty: Known as the Queen of the Hill Stations, Ooty captivates visitors with its blooming vegetation, lofty mountains, dense forests, sprawling grasslands, and endless tea gardens.
- Coorg: Admired for its exotic scenic beauty, Coorg, also called the “Scotland of India,” enthralls visitors with its cool ambiance and picturesque landscapes.
- Nagarhole: Translating to “Snake River” in Kannada, Nagarhole charms tourists with its serpentine river and lush forests, forming a part of the Kabini region.
- Bangalore: Known as India’s IT hub, Bangalore boasts a pleasant climate, tree-lined streets, and numerous parks, earning it the title of “Garden City.”
These captivating destinations near Bandipur Tiger Reserve beckon travelers with their unique charm and natural wonders.
