Bandipur National Park, located in the southern state of Karnataka, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and tiger reserve status. Situated near the border of Tamil Nadu, it attracts nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers from across India and abroad.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bandipur National Park, whether you’re coming from Bangalore, Mysore, or nearby cities. We’ll explore train, bus, car, and flight options, along with travel tips and local insights to help you plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Bangalore to Bandipur National Park – Main Options

By Train

Train travel to Bandipur is indirect but feasible, with nearby railway stations connecting you to road transport. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who prefer rail travel combined with a road journey.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Mysore Junction (MYS) and Chamarajanagar (CMNR) are the closest major stations to Bandipur, located about 80 km and 20 km away respectively. Mysore is well-connected to Bangalore and other cities.

• Train options and travel time:

  From Bangalore to Mysore, trains run frequently with journey times around 2.5 to 3 hours. Tickets range from ₹100 to ₹500 depending on class. From Mysore, you’ll need a taxi or bus to reach Bandipur.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Chamarajanagar station is closer but has fewer trains. Hiring a taxi or taking a local bus from Mysore or Chamarajanagar to Bandipur is common, with road travel taking 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Booking tips:

  Use IRCTC or trusted apps to book Bangalore-Mysore trains in advance, especially on weekends and holidays to avoid last-minute rush.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Train travel is comfortable year-round, but monsoon rains can cause minor delays. Early morning trains are preferable to maximize daylight for the onward road journey.

By Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Bandipur, especially from Mysore and Bangalore. State-run and private buses offer regular services, though direct buses to Bandipur are limited.

• From Bangalore to Mysore:

  Frequent KSRTC and private buses run between Bangalore and Mysore, with journey times of 3 to 4 hours. Tickets cost ₹150–₹300 depending on bus type (non-AC, AC, Volvo).

• From Mysore to Bandipur:

  Local buses and shared jeeps connect Mysore to Bandipur via NH766. The 80 km road trip takes about 2 hours, with buses running several times daily.

• Direct buses:

  Some private operators offer direct services from Bangalore to Bandipur during peak tourist seasons, but these are infrequent. Confirm schedules in advance.

• Bus comfort and tips:

  Volvo buses offer a comfortable ride on the Bangalore-Mysore route. For the last leg, local buses can be crowded; consider hiring a taxi for convenience.

• Travel timing:

  Avoid late evening bus travel in forest areas due to wildlife crossing and limited visibility.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Bandipur is one of the most flexible and scenic options, popular among weekend travelers and families. The roads are generally good, with well-marked highways and rest stops.

• Route details:

  The most common route from Bangalore is via Mysore on NH275 and then NH766 towards Bandipur. The total distance is approximately 220 km, taking around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are well-maintained with tolls on NH275. The Bandipur forest area has speed restrictions and night travel bans to protect wildlife.

• Car rentals and self-drive:

  Major cities like Bangalore and Mysore offer car rental services including self-drive options from providers like Zoomcar and Revv. Booking in advance is recommended.

• Scenic highlights:

  The drive through the Western Ghats and Bandipur forest offers beautiful landscapes and chances to spot wildlife near the road during daytime.

• Travel tips:

  Start early to avoid city traffic and reach Bandipur before dusk. Carry sufficient water and fuel, as petrol stations are limited near the park.

By Flight

Bandipur does not have its own airport, but the nearest airports at Bangalore and Coimbatore serve as gateways. Flights are suitable for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Nearest airports:

  Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore is about 210 km away. Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) in Tamil Nadu is around 100 km from Bandipur.

• Flight connectivity:

  Bangalore airport is well-connected nationally and internationally. Coimbatore has good domestic connections, especially to southern cities.

• From airport to Bandipur:

  From Bangalore, hire a taxi or rent a car for the 4-5 hour drive. From Coimbatore, road travel takes about 3 hours via NH181 and NH766.

• Travel tips:

  Flights are best combined with car rental or pre-booked taxis. Avoid late arrivals as road travel in forest areas is restricted after sunset.

• Seasonal notes:

  Flight prices may rise during peak tourist seasons (October to March). Booking 2-3 weeks in advance can secure better fares.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers aiming to reach Bandipur National Park smoothly and enjoy their wildlife experience.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your bookings at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Bangalore City Railway Station, Kempegowda Bus Station, or airport 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• Choose the best onward transport:

  From Mysore or Coimbatore, pre-book a taxi or rent a car for the final leg to Bandipur to ensure timely arrival before park closing hours.

• Pack essentials for forest travel:

  Carry water, snacks, insect repellent, and a flashlight. Mobile network may be weak inside the park, so plan accordingly.

• Check park timings and permits:

  Bandipur National Park is open from 6 am to 6 pm. Obtain entry permits online or at the gate to avoid delays.

• Plan your return:

  Arrange your return transport in advance, especially if relying on public buses or trains, as services may be limited in the evening.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety in forest areas:

  Avoid night travel inside Bandipur due to wildlife movement and restricted forest roads. Always follow park guidelines and stay inside designated areas.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options inside the park are limited. Avoid eating near wildlife zones to prevent attracting animals.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official websites like IRCTC for trains and KSRTC for buses. For taxis, apps like Ola and Uber operate mainly in cities but not inside the park.

• Local commute:

  Pre-book safari jeeps or guided tours through the park’s official channels for the best wildlife viewing experience.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light and use sturdy bags. Avoid plastic bags inside the park to protect the environment.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon season (June to September) can cause slippery roads and occasional park closures. Check weather and park status before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Bandipur is during the cooler months when wildlife sightings are more frequent and the weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon rains and peak holiday crowds for a better experience.

Traveling early in the day maximizes your chances of spotting animals and enjoying the serene forest atmosphere.

• Avoid weekends and festival holidays to escape heavy traffic on NH275 and crowded safaris.

• Winter months (October to February) offer comfortable temperatures and dry conditions ideal for wildlife photography.

• Start your journey early morning to reach Bandipur before the park gates close at 6 pm and to enjoy cooler temperatures.

• Steer clear of monsoon months when heavy rains can disrupt travel and reduce wildlife visibility.

Arrival at Bandipur National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival, travelers experience a tranquil forest environment with opportunities to see elephants, tigers, deer, and diverse bird species. The park entrance has basic facilities and a ticket counter for permits.

Local transport options include safari jeeps and guided tours arranged at the park gate. Nearby towns like Gundlupet and Mysore offer accommodation ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts.

For last-mile connectivity, prepaid taxis and local jeeps are available at the park entrance. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Conclusion

Driving or hiring a taxi from Bangalore or Mysore offers the most convenient and flexible way to reach Bandipur National Park, allowing you to enjoy scenic routes and stopovers. For budget travelers, combining train and bus travel with local taxis is practical.

With proper planning, early bookings, and awareness of park timings, your journey to Bandipur will be smooth and rewarding. Embrace the adventure and prepare to witness some of India’s finest wildlife in their natural habitat.