All You Need to Know about Bandipur Safari: How to Book, Cost, Timing, and More

Imagine venturing into the heart of the wild, where the thrill of spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is just a jeep ride away. 

Welcome to Bandipur Safari, an exhilarating experience nestled in the lush Bandipur National Park, where the call of the wild beckons you. This sanctuary, rich in biodiversity, offers more than just a glimpse of majestic wildlife—it’s an adventure that will leave you awe-inspired. From the towering elephants to the elusive leopards, Bandipur is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.

Read the blog to know everything you need for a memorable Bandipur Safari, including tips on how to book the safari, the best times to visit, and what to expect.

What is Bandipur Safari?

Bandipur Safari is a wildlife adventure experience located in Bandipur National Park, one of India’s premier tiger reserves, nestled in the state of Karnataka. The safari offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park, which spans over 874 square kilometers. Established as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1974, Bandipur is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

The safari experience allows you to journey through the dense forests and open grasslands, where you can witness a wide variety of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, leopards, deer, and a plethora of bird species. The safaris are typically conducted in open-top jeeps or buses, guided by experienced naturalists who help you spot and identify the wildlife.

For first-time visitors, the Bandipur Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and witness wildlife in its natural habitat. It’s an ideal escape for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the thrill of a true wilderness adventure.

How to Reach Bandipur National Park?

Reaching Bandipur National Park is relatively straightforward, and it’s accessible by road, rail, and air, depending on where you’re traveling from.

By Road:

Bandipur National Park is well-connected by road and is easily accessible from several nearby cities:

From Bangalore: The park is approximately 220 km from Bangalore. You can drive via NH766, which takes around 5 hours. Regular buses also operate from Bangalore to Bandipur.

From Mysore: Bandipur is about 80 km from Mysore, a 2-hour drive via NH766.

From Ooty: The park is 50 km from Ooty, and the drive takes around 1.5 hours through the scenic Nilgiri Hills.

By Rail:

The nearest railway station to Bandipur National Park is Mysore Junction. It is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore and Chennai. From Mysore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bandipur.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, located about 220 km from Bandipur. Another option is Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 84 km from Ooty, and then travel to Bandipur from Ooty. From these airports, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

Once you arrive at Bandipur, local guides and park authorities will assist you in organizing your safari and stay.

How to Book Bandipur Safari Online?

Booking a Bandipur Safari online is a simple and straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

Visit the Official Website

Go to the official Karnataka Forest Department’s eco-tourism website, Bandipur Safari, or any authorized platform such as Jungle Lodges.

Choose Your Safari

On the website, navigate to the Bandipur National Park section. Select the type of safari you’re interested in—options typically include Jeep Safari or Bus Safari.

Jeep Safari: Offers a more intimate experience with a smaller group.

Bus Safari: This economical option is suitable for larger groups.

Select Date and Time

Choose your preferred date and time slot for the safari. Safaris usually operate in two slots:

Morning: 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM

Evening: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Early bookings are recommended as slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Provide Personal Details

Enter the necessary details such as your name, number of participants, and ID proof (like Aadhar or Passport). Ensure that these details match the documents you will carry on the day of the safari.

Make Payment

Proceed to the payment gateway. Payments can usually be made via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI. The cost of the safari will vary depending on the type of vehicle and the number of people.

Receive Confirmation

Once the payment is successfully processed, you will receive a confirmation email or SMS with your booking details, including the time and location of the safari.

What Is the Cost of Safari in Bandipur?

The cost of a safari in Bandipur National Park varies depending on the type of vehicle you choose and whether you are an Indian citizen or a foreign national. 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs:

Jeep Safari:

For Indian Nationals:

Cost per Person: ₹4,200 (including GST) for a jeep accommodating up to 6 people.

For Foreign Nationals:

Cost per Person: ₹7,200 (including GST) for a jeep accommodating up to 6 people.

Bus Safari

For Indian Nationals:

Cost per Person: ₹300 – ₹400 (approximately) for a seat in a 26-seater bus.

For Foreign Nationals:

Cost per Person: ₹1,100 – ₹1,200 (approximately) for a seat in a 26-seater bus.

Additional Costs

Camera Fees: If you plan to carry a camera with a lens above 200 mm, there is usually an additional fee ranging from ₹200 to ₹500.

Inclusions

The safari cost typically includes entry fees to the national park, the vehicle, a guide, and the safari itself.

Booking Considerations

Online Booking: It is advisable to book your safari online in advance through the official Karnataka Ecotourism website or authorized portals like Jungle Lodges, especially during peak seasons.

Cancellation Policies: If you need to cancel your booking, check the cancellation policy beforehand, as there may be partial refunds or no refunds depending on when you cancel.

Duration of the Safari

The safari usually lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, with morning and evening slots available.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Bandipur?

The best time to visit Bandipur National Park is during the winter and early summer months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the park and enjoying wildlife safaris. 

Here’s why:

October to March (Winter to Early Summer)

Pleasant Weather: The temperatures during these months range from 10°C to 25°C, making the climate comfortable for outdoor activities like safaris.

Wildlife Sightings: The dry season from February to March is particularly good for wildlife sightings, as animals tend to gather around water sources, increasing your chances of spotting tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.

Clear Visibility: The park is lush after the monsoons, and the visibility is excellent, which enhances the overall safari experience.

April to June (Summer)

Hot but Productive: Though temperatures can soar up to 35°C, the summer months are also a good time for wildlife sightings, as animals frequent waterholes more often due to the heat.

July to September (Monsoon)

Lush Greenery: The monsoon transforms the park into a lush green landscape. However, heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to safari cancellations, and wildlife sightings may be less frequent due to dense foliage.

Final Words

Bandipur Safari offers an unforgettable journey through one of India’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries. 

Whether you’re an avid nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape from city life, Bandipur’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes provide an experience like no other. From booking your safari online to knowing the best time to visit, this guide has covered all the essential details to help you make the most of your trip.