India is a picturesque land that is home to diverse flora and fauna. The diversity in flora, fauna, landforms, the spectacular scenic locations and last but not the least the warm and friendly people here make it an attractive tourist destination. There are several beautiful hill stations, valleys and beaches that are a great place for a wonderful holiday. One such wonderful destination is the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary which houses thousands of varieties of flora and fauna in the beautiful forests and is a truly mesmerizing experience in itself. A great vacation spot, away from the pressures of city life, Bandipur wildlife sanctuary is a wonderful place to unwind with nature by your side.
Located in the southern part of the beautiful state of Karnataka, Bandipur is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. The Bandipur National Park was made by the Maharaja of Mysore in the year 1931 and was then spread over an area of 90 sq kms. However, it was later increased to 800 sq kms and renamed the Venugopala Wildlife Park after the residing deity of the shrine located here at Gopalswamy Betta. The name Bandipur National Park was given in the year 1973 when the Government took over the park under the Project Tiger Scheme and it was then made into a Tiger Reserve.
Bandipur Wildlife sanctuary forms the connecting link between the Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary in Tamilnadu and the Wayanad wildlife sanctuary in Kerala and thus, is a long beautiful stretch that you would fall in love with.
There are three beautiful rivers that flow through the Bandipur sanctuary namely the Moyar river, the Kabini river and the Nagur river. The weather is ideally suited for a great vacation amidst nature. Bandipur is a lovely destination that can be visited all year round. The summer months from March to May would be a great time to watch the animals at the watering holes. However, the period between June to October (during the monsoons) is when Bandipur comes alive with greenery all over.
Entry to the park is charged and the rates vary for Indian and foreign nationals. Vehicles on hire, cameras and the spectacular elephant safari are charged extra. There are a number of activities like boating, fishing, bird watching and trekking that you could indulge in while on your holiday here. For photographers and nature lovers, Bandipur is truly heaven on Earth.
Being located so close to the happening city of Bangalore makes the BandipurNational Park a much sought after weekend getaway from Bangalore.