Bannerghatta National Park is located about 22 kilometers south of Bangalore, Karnataka's bustling capital city. This park is a popular destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families looking for a quick weekend getaway from the city. Known for its safari rides, butterfly park, and zoo, Bannerghatta offers a refreshing break from urban life.

This guide will help you navigate the best ways to reach Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore. Whether you prefer public transport, self-driving, or guided tours, you will find detailed information on routes, travel times, costs, and tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Bangalore to Bannerghatta National Park – Main Options

By Bus

Taking a bus is an economical and fairly convenient option for reaching Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) operate regular services on this route.

• Bus routes and stops:

  BMTC buses numbered 342, 342A, and 342B connect Majestic bus station in Bangalore to Bannerghatta Road near the park entrance. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Ticket cost and frequency:

  Bus fares range from ₹20 to ₹40 per person. Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes during the day, making it easy to find a suitable departure time.

• Comfort and crowd:

  BMTC buses are generally comfortable but can get crowded during weekends and holidays. Opt for early morning trips to avoid peak crowding.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From the nearest bus stop at Bannerghatta Road, you may need to walk or take an auto-rickshaw for about 1 km to reach the park entrance. Autos are available but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling by bus during heavy monsoon rains as roads may get congested or slippery, causing delays.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Bannerghatta National Park is one of the most flexible and comfortable ways to reach the destination, especially for families or groups. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive offers some scenic views along the way.

• Route details:

  Take Bannerghatta Road (NH948) from Bangalore city center. The drive covers approximately 22 km and usually takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

• Parking and entry:

  The park has a designated parking area for private vehicles near the entrance. Parking is free but can fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive early.

• Traffic considerations:

  Bannerghatta Road can get congested during peak hours (8-10 AM and 5-8 PM). Plan your trip outside these times to avoid delays.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Several fuel stations and eateries like Kamat and local cafes are available along Bannerghatta Road for refreshments and breaks.

• Navigation tips:

  Use Google Maps or local GPS apps for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes if needed.

By Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or booking a cab through apps like Ola and Uber is a hassle-free option for reaching Bannerghatta National Park. It offers door-to-door convenience without the stress of driving or parking.

• Booking and fares:

  Cabs can be booked via Ola or Uber with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹700 one way, depending on the vehicle type and traffic.

• Pickup points:

  Taxis can be booked from anywhere in Bangalore, including the airport, railway stations, or your hotel.

• Waiting time and return trip:

  You can book a round trip or have the driver wait for you at the park, but waiting charges may apply. Confirm rates beforehand.

• Comfort and safety:

  Cabs provide air-conditioned comfort and are ideal for families or groups. Always verify the driver’s identity and use app-based payments for safety.

• Best time to book:

  Booking in advance during weekends or holidays is recommended to avoid surge pricing and availability issues.

By Guided Tour

Many travel agencies and tour operators in Bangalore offer guided day trips to Bannerghatta National Park. This option is great for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary with transport, entry tickets, and safari rides included.

• Tour inclusions:

  Most tours cover hotel pickup/drop, park entry fees, safari rides, and a guide explaining the park’s flora and fauna.

• Duration and cost:

  Tours typically last 5 to 7 hours and cost between ₹800 to ₹1500 per person depending on group size and inclusions.

• Convenience:

  Guided tours eliminate the hassle of planning and navigating, especially for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with the area.

• Booking tips:

  Book tours online in advance through reputed portals like Thrillophilia or Klook to secure your spot and avail discounts.

• Seasonal advice:

  Tours operate year-round but check for availability during monsoon months as safari rides may be suspended due to weather.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Bangalore to Bannerghatta National Park, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

• Book your tickets early:

  Purchase park entry and safari tickets online via the official Bannerghatta website or authorized portals to avoid long queues.

• Choose your mode of transport:

  Decide between bus, self-drive, taxi, or guided tour based on your budget, comfort, and group size.

• Start early in the morning:

  Begin your journey by 8 AM to avoid Bangalore traffic and secure a good spot for the safari rides.

• Carry essentials:

  Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Carry a valid ID for ticket verification at the park entrance.

• Reach the park entrance:

  If using public transport, get off at the Bannerghatta Road stop and take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the gate.

• Enjoy the park and return safely:

  Allocate 3 to 4 hours inside the park. Plan your return trip before sunset to avoid driving in the dark on rural roads.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Always follow park rules and instructions during safari rides. Keep a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks. Food options inside the park are limited and can be expensive.

• Booking strategy:

  Use the official Bannerghatta National Park website or trusted apps like IRCTC Tourism for ticket bookings to avoid scams.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are available near the park entrance for last-mile connectivity. Negotiate fares upfront for autos.

• Luggage advice:

  Carry minimal baggage as the safari rides require quick boarding and disembarking. Large bags are not allowed inside safari vehicles.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon rains (June to September) as some safari routes may be closed and roads slippery.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bannerghatta National Park is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

Avoid peak traffic hours in Bangalore, especially weekday mornings and evenings, to ensure a timely arrival. Weekends are popular, so plan accordingly.

• Avoid visiting during major festivals like Diwali or Ugadi when Bangalore traffic worsens significantly.

• Monsoon season can cause roadblocks and safari cancellations; check weather updates before planning.

• Early morning departures (7-8 AM) help beat traffic and secure better safari slots.

• Late afternoon visits are less crowded but may limit time inside the park before closing.

Arrival at Bannerghatta National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bannerghatta National Park, you will find a well-marked entrance with ticket counters and information booths. The park is well-maintained with clean restrooms and basic amenities.

Local transport options include shared autos and app-based taxis for nearby areas. The park’s main attractions include the safari rides, butterfly park, and zoo, all accessible within walking distance from the entrance. Popular nearby stay options are in Bangalore city, with no accommodations inside the park.

Conclusion

Driving your own car or hiring a taxi is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore, offering flexibility and convenience. For budget travelers, BMTC buses provide a reliable and affordable option, though with some last-mile connectivity challenges.

With proper planning and early bookings, your trip to Bannerghatta National Park will be smooth and enjoyable. Whether you seek wildlife adventures or a peaceful nature retreat, this guide equips you with all the practical information to travel confidently and make the most of your visit.