Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Introduction

Bandipur Tiger Reserve is one of India’s oldest and most celebrated tiger reserves and forms a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in southern India. Located in Karnataka, it is among the original reserves brought under Project Tiger in 1973. Together with Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur forms one of Asia’s largest contiguous protected forest landscapes, supporting viable populations of tigers, Asian elephants and numerous other threatened species.

Quick Facts

Particular	Details
State	Karnataka
Districts	Chamarajanagar and Mysuru
National Park	1974
Tiger Reserve	1973 (Project Tiger)
Total Area	1,456.30 sq km
Core Area	872.24 sq km
Buffer Area	584.06 sq km
Elevation	Approximately 680-1,454 m
Forest Types	Tropical Dry Deciduous, Moist Deciduous, Scrub and Riverine Forests
Major Rivers	Kabini, Moyar, Nugu and seasonal streams
Best Time to Visit	October to May

Location

The reserve lies in southern Karnataka along the Karnataka–Tamil Nadu border. It is contiguous with Nagarhole Tiger Reserve to the north-west, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu to the south-east and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala to the south-west, creating an uninterrupted wildlife landscape of international conservation importance.

History

The forests of Bandipur were once the exclusive hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Mysore. Recognising their ecological value, the area was first protected as the Venugopala Wildlife Park in 1931. In 1974 it became Bandipur National Park, and because of its rich tiger habitat it was selected among the first reserves under Project Tiger. Decades of scientific management, habitat restoration, anti-poaching protection and regulated tourism have made Bandipur a flagship conservation landscape.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Bandipur covers 1,456.30 sq km, comprising a core area of 872.24 sq km and a buffer area of 584.06 sq km. The terrain is gently undulating with low hills, valleys, grasslands and wooded plateaus. Forests range from dry deciduous woodland in the east to moist deciduous forests and riverine vegetation near perennial watercourses. Teak, rosewood, Terminalia, sandalwood, bamboo, jamun and arjun dominate the vegetation. The reserve is an important watershed feeding the Kabini and Moyar river systems.

Flora

More than a thousand species of flowering plants have been recorded. Teak, Indian kino, axlewood, sandalwood, bamboo, jamun, ficus species, grasses and numerous medicinal plants provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Fauna

Bandipur supports Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Four-horned Antelope, Wild Boar, Indian Giant Squirrel and many smaller mammals. Over 300 bird species include Malabar Grey Hornbill, Indian Peafowl, Crested Serpent Eagle, Grey Junglefowl, Indian Pitta and Changeable Hawk-Eagle. Reptiles include King Cobra, Indian Rock Python, Mugger Crocodile, Monitor Lizard and several turtles and snakes.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The Kabini, Moyar and Nugu rivers together with numerous streams, tanks and seasonal waterholes sustain wildlife throughout the year and become focal points during summer.

Other Attractions

Bandipur Safari, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, interpretation centres, birdwatching and excellent connectivity to adjoining protected areas make Bandipur a major wildlife tourism destination.

Weather & Climate

Summers (March-June) are warm with temperatures occasionally exceeding 35°C. The reserve receives rainfall from both southwest and northeast monsoons. Winters (November-February) are cool and pleasant, making them ideal for visitors.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Mysuru (limited flights) and Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. Nearest railhead: Mysuru. By road, the reserve is well connected from Mysuru, Bengaluru, Ooty and Wayanad.

Best Time to Visit

October to May is ideal. Wildlife sightings are often best during the dry summer months when animals congregate around water sources.

Accommodation

Forest Department rest houses and Karnataka Tourism accommodation are available near the reserve, subject to advance booking and official regulations.

Conservation Highlights

Bandipur plays a critical role in conserving India’s largest connected tiger-elephant landscape. Regular camera trapping, habitat management, fire protection, corridor conservation, anti-poaching camps and community participation are central to its management.

Visitor Tips

Book safaris early, wear muted colours, maintain silence, avoid littering, never feed wildlife and always follow Forest Department instructions.

Did You Know?

• Bandipur is one of the original Project Tiger reserves.
• It is part of the UNESCO-recognised Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
• Together with adjoining protected areas, it forms one of Asia’s largest protected forest complexes.

Last Updated

July 2026