Bandipur National Park Safari 

A safari in Bandipur National Park, located within Karnataka's Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is one of South India's top wildlife experiences. Run directly by the Karnataka Forest Department, here is all the essential information you need to plan your visit:

1. Safari Timings

Safaris run twice a day during the peak activity hours of the wildlife:

• Morning Session: 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM
• Evening Session: 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM (Tip: Please arrive at the safari reception gate at least 30 minutes before your scheduled slot).

2. Types of Safari Vehicles

• Jeep Safari: Holds up to 6 people. It provides a more personal and flexible experience, perfect for wildlife photographers and small families wanting closer views.
• Canter / Bus Safari: A larger vehicle holding about 20 passengers. Featuring elevated seating and wide windows, it is a great budget-friendly choice for larger families and groups.

3. Estimated Ticket Prices

• Canter / Bus Safari: Around ₹1,000 per adult and ₹500 per child.
• Jeep Safari: Around ₹1,500 per adult and ₹750 per child.(Additional charges may apply for carrying professional camera equipment and telephoto lenses).

4. How to Book

• ID Verification: Every traveler must carry the original government-issued photo ID (such as a Passport, Driver's License, or other valid ID) that was used during the booking, as it will be checked at the entrance gate.

5. Wildlife You Might See

While spotting major predators like tigers or leopards depends largely on luck, Bandipur's rich ecosystem gives you a high chance of encountering:

• Asian Elephants
• Indian Bison (Gaur)
• Sambar deer, Chital (Spotted Deer), and Mouse Deer
• Wild Boars, Sloth Bears, and Dholes (Wild Dogs)
• A wide variety of birds and reptiles

Quick Tips

• Best Time to Visit: October to May offers pleasant weather, with the dry months from December to March being ideal for spotting animals near water sources.
• Safari Etiquette: Wear natural, earthy tones (like greens, browns, and greys) to blend into the surroundings. Keep noise to a minimum and always follow your guide's directions.