Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Bandipur requires careful timing due to strict safari schedules and highway night closures. Here is how to organize your day.
Bandipur National Park
Mysuru - Ooty Road, Gundlupete, Chamarajanagar District
GPS 11.6616, 76.6272
Open directionsGetting there
Drive from Mysore or Bangalore.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive via the Mysuru-Ooty highway. It is located about 80km from Mysore and 220km from Bangalore. | 1.5 hours from Mysore, 4-5 hours from Bangalore | Ensure you cross the park boundaries before the strict NH 766 night closure between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM. | |
| Bus: State-run buses traveling from Bangalore or Mysore towards Ooty pass directly through Bandipur. | 2-3 hours from Mysore | ₹150 - ₹300 | Inform the driver to drop you at the Bandipur Safari office (Melukamanahalli gate) as it is a request stop. |
| Train: Take a train to Mysore Junction, which is the nearest major railhead, then hire a taxi or catch a bus to the park. | 80km drive from the station | Taxis from Mysore station can easily be hired for a direct drop to Bandipur resorts. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round. October to May is the general high season. March to May is the best window for seeing tigers, as drought forces them toward the remaining waterholes.
What to bring
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Night traffic is banned on the NH 766 highway from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Ensure you cross the park boundaries before the gates close.
How the day runs
Suggested safari itineraries.
Arrive in the afternoon for a safari, stay near the park, and take a morning drive.
- Arrive at resort
Check into your eco-resort and eat lunch.
- Head to reception
Present your ID at the Bandipur Safari office.
- Afternoon safari
Board your jeep or bus for a 2.5-hour drive.
- Next morning safari
Head out early to spot active wildlife in the cool air.
A quick visit for those staying in nearby Mysore.
- Drive from Mysore
It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the park.
- Take the safari
Enjoy the afternoon safari slot.
- Return trip
Drive back to Mysore well before the 9:00 PM night ban.
Packing for your safari
Pack earthy-toned clothing like khaki, green, or brown. Avoid bright colors that alarm animals. Bring a valid Government ID, which is mandatory for entry.
Phones are banned on safaris. Bring a proper digital camera with a telephoto lens and binoculars. Protect yourself from dust with a scarf, and use high-SPF sunscreen for open jeep drives. See Safari Packing List for a full list.
Easiest way to do it
2 Day Bandipur Safari and Mysore Palace Tour
48 h 4.6 (5)
- Shared Jungle Safari with a Naturalist on Day One – Afternoon
- Transportation in air conditioned Vehicle.
- Shared Jungle Safari with a Naturalist on Day One – Morning
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
From$345per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can I drive my own car on the safari?
No. Private vehicles are strictly forbidden on safari trails. You must use official forest department vehicles.
What are the safari timings?
Safaris run twice daily: 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM, and 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Are there toilets inside the park?
Facilities are only available at the reception area and resorts. Do not get off the vehicle during the safari.