In Karnataka, the two attractive wildlife parks of Nagarhole and Bandipur, though separate entities, are part of a larger contiguous wildlife reserve that includes the Mudumalai Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and the Wynad Reserve in Kerala. Both the parks are easily accessible from Mysore.

The 874.20 sq. km. Bandipur National Park, which is also a Tiger Reserve, with its open grassy woodland, lies to the south of the Kabini River while Nagarhole, 643.39 sq km in area, to the north of the river, has taller and denser forests.

A dam on the Kabini and its picturesque reservoir separate the two parks. In the dense moist deciduous forests of this area the upper canopy reaches heights of 30m and valuable hardwoods like teak and rosewood are also to be found here.

Bandipur, lying in the shadow of the Western Ghats, is one of the finest habitats of the Asian elephant. Drained by the Moyar River, its open forest makes it easy for visitors to see the elephant and gaur in natural surroundings.

Getting there

Rail: Mysore (65 kms), Nearest town- Gundulpet(20 kms)

Road: There are private and KSRTC bus services from Mysore enroute to Ooty.

Local Transport: Private taxis can be hired to reach the place.

Best Time to Visit: March-August.

Contact: Field Director, Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Mysore-570004.

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Where to stay

Forest Lodges, Cottages, Forest Rest Houses are available but with prior booking.

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