Home to a perfect tropical climate, Bandipur National Park is one of the few reserves that has survived and flourished due to the foresight and vision of men from the past. Bandipur forests were once used as a private hunting reserve by the Maharaja of Mysore in the earlier times. It was brought under Project Tiger in 1973 and is most famous for its tigers and elephants. Witnessing mighty elephants strolling in the park or the elusive tiger hunting its prey at majestic sight is one of the most awaited moments of wildlife enthusiasts. It is also one of the few sanctuaries which has been spared threats from major dams, buildings, and mining or irrigation projects. Due to its reputation, this whole reserve has also earned acclaim as Southern India’s largest preserved area and continues to flourish with diverse vegetation, thriving animal life and a prolific insect and bird population.
Nestled close to other sanctuaries like Mudumalai, Nagarhole and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries, Bandipur National Park maintains its own distinctive identity. The serene Bandipur National Park is located in the southern state of Karnataka and its beauty is enhanced on account of the presence of many rivers. The northern end is witness to the Kabini River and the Moyar flows through the south of the park. In addition, the enchanting Nugu River flows through it. Many endangered and vulnerable species have garnered refuge here and stringent efforts followed regarding conservation are extremely helpful in keeping the future of various species secure. The lush environs of Bandipur are home to countless varieties of vegetation like moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests and shrub lands which flourish in the park. Along with Mudumalai National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary; it forms a part of the highly renowned Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Flora, Fauna & Avifauna
- Timber trees dot the surroundings and the common ones include Teak, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Indian – laurel, Indian Kino Tree, giant clumping bamboo etc. Several other sorts of fruit trees and shrubs also proliferate here such as Kadam tree, Indian Gooseberry, Indigo berry, Satinwood Tree, Flame of the Forest and Black Cutch.
- A favourite wildlife destination for photographers, Bandipur National Park contains a vast pool of highly endangered species. A rich diversity of mammals include large as well as medium sized mammals such as elephants, gaurs, tigers, muggers, Indian rock-cut pythons, leopards, four-horned antelopes, sloth bears, gray langurs, wild boar, muntjac etc.
- Birds like Peafowl, grey jungle fowl, crows, drongos, honey buzzards, red-headed vultures, crested serpent eagles, changeable hawk-eagles, etc. have made the park their home. Numerous other sorts of fauna include reptile species such as monitor lizards, Indian chameleon, rat snake and butterflies like common rose, crimson rose and common jay.