Bandipur National Park: A Wildlife Paradise in the Southern India
Bandipur National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Karnataka in Southern India. It is one of the oldest national parks in India, covering an area of approximately 874 square kilometers. Bandipur National Park is famous for its abundant wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and unique ecosystem. It is home to a variety of endangered species like the Indian elephant, tiger, leopard, and several species of deer.
History:
Bandipur National Park was established in 1974 as a national park and later in 1985, it was declared as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger. The park was initially a private hunting reserve for the Maharajas of Mysore. It was later converted into a wildlife sanctuary in 1931 and later into a national park in 1974. The park is located in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Flora and Fauna:
Bandipur National Park is a part of the Western Ghats, which is a biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to several rare and endangered species of plants and animals. The forest area in the park is a mix of deciduous, evergreen, and scrub forests. Some of the common trees found in the park include teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and Indian laurel.
The park is famous for its diverse fauna, including the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, Indian leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar deer, spotted deer, and the four-horned antelope. The park is also home to several species of reptiles, including the king cobra, Indian python, and the monitor lizard.
Tourism:
Bandipur National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The park is open throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when the park is closed due to heavy rains. The best time to visit the park is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife sightings are high.
The park offers several activities for visitors, including jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and trekking. The jeep safaris are conducted by trained guides who take visitors deep into the forest area, where they can spot a variety of wildlife. The elephant safaris are a unique way to explore the park, where visitors can ride on the back of an elephant and get a bird's eye view of the park. The park also offers several trekking trails for visitors, where they can explore the park on foot and witness the beauty of the forest.
Accommodation:
Bandipur National Park offers several accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget to luxury. There are several government-owned resorts, guesthouses, and lodges inside the park, which offer basic amenities like food and accommodation. Visitors can also choose to stay in private resorts located outside the park, which offer luxury amenities like swimming pools, spa, and other recreational activities.
How to Reach:
Bandipur National Park is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, which is approximately 225 kilometers away from the park. The nearest railway station is Mysore, which is approximately 80 kilometers away from the park. Visitors can hire taxis or take buses from Bangalore or Mysore to reach the park.
Conclusion:
Bandipur National Park is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the Western Ghats. Visitors can experience the thrill of spotting the majestic Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, and other rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. A visit to Bandipur National Park is a must-do for anyone who loves wildlife and nature.