About Bandipur

Bandipur is one of India's most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Spanning over 828 km² (325.38 sq mi) in Karnataka, the national park is a haven for over 1,200 animal species, including tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, dholes, gaur, sambar deer, spotted deer, and chital. Additionally, the sanctuary provides shelter for 200 indigenous and migratory bird species, along with hundreds of reptile and insect species.

Bandipur was among the first wildlife sanctuaries in India to be designated a Project Tiger Reserve in 1973, and it has played a significant role in the restoration of tiger populations. Project Tiger, established in the same year, is an India-wide conservation initiative to protect the native Bengal tigers. The park now harbors over 120 tigers, one of the highest tiger populations in India.

The sanctuary's incredible ecosystem is unlike any other in the world. Boasting remarkable biodiversity, Bandipur is home to over 800 plant species, including teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and Indian laurel. The park also shelters a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.

The surrounding area has a rich history. Bandipur once served as the private hunting ground for the Maharajas of the Kingdom of Mysore. In 1974, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary. The park retains historical landmarks and structures, such as the Bandipur Fort and the Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple.

Situated in the southern part of Karnataka, Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Hills. It covers an area of about 874 square kilometers. The park is characterized by a combination of deciduous and evergreen forests, rolling hills, and valleys.

Connectivity:Bandipur shares its boundaries with other prominent wildlife reserves, including Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, and Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Together, these four parks form the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest biosphere reserves in India.

Bandipur is an ideal destination for eco-conscious tourists. It offers various ecotourism opportunities, including wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature walks. Visitors can also explore the Bandipur Forest Museum to explore the park's wildlife and history.

Thanks to the conservation efforts of naturalists and Project Tiger, Bandipur has achieved remarkable success in conservation efforts. Since the park's establishment, there have been stable or increasing populations of tigers, elephants, and other endangered species. The park also serves as a model for community-based conservation, with local communities actively involved in conservation initiatives.

The ideal time to plan your visit to Bandipur is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild. This favorable weather aligns with the animals' increased activity, leading to more frequent sightings.

While Bandipur has made significant strides in wildlife conservation, it faces challenges such as human-wildlife conflicts, habitat loss, and illegal poaching. Continued conservation efforts are essential to protect Bandipur's rich biodiversity for future generations.