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How to Reach Bandipur

Bandipur National Park, one of India's first nine Project Tiger reserves (1973/74), lies on the former hunting grounds of the Mysore maharajas in Karnataka's Chamarajanagar

Overview

Bandipur National Park, one of India's first nine Project Tiger reserves (1973/74), lies on the former hunting grounds of the Mysore maharajas in Karnataka's Chamarajanagar district. Its dry deciduous and moist forests form a vital part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, seamlessly connecting to Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu and onward to Wayanad in Kerala. Reaching this wildlife haven involves navigating the NH-766 highway that cuts through the core, with the nearest major gateways being Mysuru, Ooty, and Bengaluru.

Transport Options

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By Air

The nearest airport with regular commercial service is Mysuru Airport (MYQ), about 80 km away, while Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru (approx. 220 km) offers broader domestic and international connections. From either airport, you'll need to continue by road, as Bandipur has no airstrip of its own.

Mysuru Airport (MYQ)

Mysuru Airport is the closest operational airport, with daily flights from Bengaluru and some connections from other metros. It's a small, efficient airport ideal for those heading directly to Bandipur.

•Distance to Bandipur: ~80 km via NH-766, about 2 hours by car.
•Flights: Daily service from Bengaluru (operated by Alliance Air/IndiGo); check schedules as they may change seasonally.
•Ground transport: Pre-paid taxis and app-based cabs (Uber/Ola) are available; hire a private cab for the journey to Bandipur.
•Alternate: Hire a taxi from Mysuru city (about 15 km from airport) for wider options.

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

This major international airport is the most common entry point for long-distance travelers. From here, you can take a direct road trip to Bandipur, which is a scenic but lengthy drive.

•Distance to Bandipur: ~220 km via NH-766 (via Mysuru), approximately 5-6 hours by car.
•Direct buses: KSRTC operates daily Volvo and ordinary buses from Bengaluru to Bandipur (via Gundlupet), but they are not very frequent; check online.
•Private cabs: Easily available; cost around ₹4,000-₹6,000 one-way, depending on vehicle type.
•Tip: Break the journey at Mysuru (visit the palace) if time permits, as it's a natural halfway point.

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By Train

The nearest major railway station is Mysuru Junction, well-connected to Bengaluru and other Indian cities. From Mysuru, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bandipur. There is no direct rail line to Bandipur itself.

Mysuru Junction (MYS)

Mysuru is the primary railhead for Bandipur, offering frequent trains from Bengaluru and other southern cities. The station is about 80 km from Bandipur.

•Trains: Shatabdi, Kaveri Express, and many passenger trains connect Bengaluru to Mysuru (approx. 2-3 hours).
•From Mysuru: Hire a taxi (approx. ₹2,500-₹3,500) or take a KSRTC bus to Gundlupet (then a local bus/taxi to Bandipur).
•Pre-paid taxi counter at the station for convenience.
•Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season (October to March).

Gundlupet Railway Station (Optional)

Gundlupet is the closest town to Bandipur (about 15 km) and has a small railway station on the Mysuru–Chamarajanagar line. However, train service is limited, and most travelers prefer Mysuru.

•Trains: A few passenger trains run between Mysuru and Chamarajanagar, stopping at Gundlupet.
•From Gundlupet: Take an auto or local bus to Bandipur (15 km).
•Verify current train schedules as they are infrequent.
•This option is best for budget travelers who don't mind a short local ride.

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By Road

Road travel is the most practical way to reach Bandipur, as the park lies directly on NH-766 (Mysuru–Ooty highway). The highway passes through the core forest, and you can drive from Mysuru, Bengaluru, Ooty, or even Kerala. Note that night traffic is prohibited between 9 PM and 6 AM.

From Mysuru (80 km)

The most common route, taking about 2 hours via NH-766. The road is good, passing through scenic countryside and then entering the forest.

•Drive via Nanjangud and Gundlupet; the park entrance is just after Gundlupet.
•KSRTC buses from Mysuru to Ooty stop at Bandipur; get off at the reception centre.
•Private taxis are available for round trips; negotiate a fixed fare.
•Carry a valid ID for forest checkposts.

From Bengaluru (220 km)

A longer but straightforward drive, typically 5-6 hours. The route is well-signposted and passes through Mysuru.

•Take NH-275 to Mysuru, then NH-766 to Bandipur.
•Consider an early start to avoid traffic and arrive before the 9 PM closure.
•KSRTC Volvo buses from Bengaluru to Ooty/Chamarajanagar stop at Bandipur; book online.
•Fuel up before entering the forest; there are limited petrol pumps inside.

From Ooty (80 km)

Coming from the Tamil Nadu side, you'll descend the ghats and cross Mudumalai Tiger Reserve before entering Bandipur. This route is scenic but winding.

•Drive via Theppakadu and Moyar; the road is narrow in parts.
•NH-766 is closed at night, so plan to travel between 6 AM and 9 PM.
•Expect wildlife crossings; drive slowly and do not stop to feed animals.
•Check for forest permit requirements at the state border (Karnataka entry).

Practical Tips

•NH-766 is closed to all traffic from 9 PM to 6 AM—plan your arrival and departure accordingly.
•Carry a valid photo ID (passport, driving license, or Aadhaar) for forest checkposts and safari registration.
•Pack light layers: mornings are cool, afternoons warm; the park is at an elevation, but temperatures can vary.
•Book safari permits online or at the reception centre; morning and afternoon batches are fixed—arrive at least 30 minutes early.
•Respect wildlife: stay inside your vehicle, avoid loud noises, and never feed animals. Also, carry cash as card facilities may be limited at the park.