Bandipur National Park (tiger project)-Karnataka

Located in the district of Chamarajanagar in the southern state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park was established in 1931. It spread over an area of 890 sq km and is regarded as one of the most exquisite national parks in the country due to its unmatched exquisiteness. Situated in the Nilgiris, Bandipur National Park encloses a tiger project within its boundaries. The project was started by Government of India to protect the endangered species. Bandipur National Park is recorded under the Nilgiri Biosphere reserves in the official documents.

The sanctuary is very rich in varities of flora and fauna. It boasts of a large number of animals including Elephants, Hornbill, Sambar, Wild Dog, Giant Squirrel, Deer, Panther, Sloth Bear, Mouse Deer, Partridges and others.

The Sanctuary area is rich in diverse varieties of trees like Bamboo, Sandalwood, Teak, Honne and Mathi.

Waynad and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuaries are connected to the Bandipur National Park. The best thing about the sanctuary is the open forest area that makes animal watching hassle free for the tourists.

The best time to reach Bandipur National Park is from April to October. During these months the weather is pleasant and many new species of the animals and birds flock the area.

There are many reasonable lodges and deluxe resorts around the national park that offer accommodation facilities. In addition, the State Tourism department also offers reasonably priced lodges, rest houses and cottages in and around the sanctuary.

Bangalore airport is located at a distance of 215 km and is the nearest airfield. The nearest railhead is situated at a distance of about 80 km from the park. Bandipur National Park is well connected by road to all the major cities of the country. It is located on the Mysore –Ooty highway and is therefore easily accessible by road.