- About Bandipur
Bandipur is a remote place situated away from the hustle and bustle of
the city. The place has a varied mixture of swamp and valleys, undulated
parklands and open grasslands amidst the beautiful winding hills of the
Nilgiris. Bandipur was originally built by the Maharajas of Mysore. The
place is watered and made fertile by many rivers and seasonal streams.
Cited as the first Biosphere Reserve of the country, the region falls
under the NIlgiri Biosphere Reserve. Bandipur was the chosen site for
the Project Tiger, an initiative by the Government of India to protect
this endangered species and is today one of the 15 Tiger reserves of the
country. Though there is no human settlement within the confines of the
reserve, there are numerous villages around the area. The place holds
its charm for the intriguing mix of fauna and flora, that are
characteristic of it.
- Places
Bandipur wildlife sanctuary is one of the famous and best wildlife
reserves in the country. The park finds a prominent place in the list of
World Wide Funds Project Tiger areas. An extension of the Venugopal
Wildlife Park, it is also attached to the Wayanad and Mudumalai
Sanctuary. During an animal tour around the park one can witness a
variety of fauna and some of the most exotic species of flora. The open
forest area facilitates animal-watching by the tourists. The forest area
houses a large number of animals like the Hornbill, Panther, Sloth
Bear, Python, Spotted Deer, Partridges, Deer, Giant Squirrel, Wild Dog,
over 2000 varieties of Elephants, Four Horned Antelope, Languor and also
a variety of rare species of birds.
The Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is another must see place at Bandipur.
Rising to a height of 1454 meters above sea level, it is one of the
highest peaks in Chamarajnagar district. The place is covered in mist
and hence its name. Located in the hilltop is the legendary Himavad
Gopalaswamy Betta temple. Herds of elephants flock around the place.
- Best Time To Visit
November-May.
- How to Reach
By Flight
Nearest airport is Mysore (80 km away).
By Rail
The nearest railhead to Bandipur is in Nanjangud.
By Road
The place is well connected to all major cities via roads.