BandipurNational Park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Nagarhole , Madhumalai and Wayanad Wildlife sanctuaries are also a part of this reserve. The park was set up by the Maharaja of Mysore in the year 1931 and was their private wildlife reserve. In 1973 the park was taken over by the Government under the Project Tiger and converted into a Tiger Reserve. The park is open all year round. The best time for wildlife viewing would be during summers (March to May) but visiting the park during monsoons is a mesmerizing. The lush greenery of the park is a sight to behold. Hire an open jeep to look around in the park. Private vehicles are not allowed in the park. Elephant rides are popular here. This 10 ten min ride is available for a minimum of 4 people. Flora and fauna at the park: Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Gaur, Sambar (deer), Chital, Sloth bear, Mouse deer, Wild dog, Wild boar, Barking deer, Four horned Antelope & Hyena are some of the wildlife species that can be seen at the park. The park has thick vegetation in the form of trees of different kinds of trees, bushes, grass and thick undergrowth. The park is also famous for its sandalwood trees
Getting there: Buses are available from Mysore and Ooty.
