Bandipur trek

Route Info

Mysore - Mangalore-Kodagu-Madikeri(Mercara)-Bangalore

Summary

Bandipur Sanctuary is interconnected with the Nagarahole National Park in the North, the Mudumalai National Park in the South and Wayanad Sanctuary in the West. The resort has cottage style accommodation and etnic huts. Facilities include dining hall, elephant ride, swimming pool, wild life film shows and Library on wildlife. Jeep Safari is provided by private Jeeps into Bandipur National Park. Trekking is arranged with local guides.The 865 sq km area that comprises the Bandipur Reserve was once the Mysore Maharaja’s private hunting ground. After the Mysore Game and Forest Preservation Regulation Act of 1931, 90 sq km was designated as a game sanctuary. In 1941, it became part of the ‘Venugopal Wildlife Park’, a larger national park, with an area of 800 sq km that also encompassed some areas of Mudumalai, Nagarahole and Wynaad. The park was notified under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. In 1973, the heart of Venugopal National Park that constituted Bandipur was recognised as Bandipur National Park and it became one of the 15 sanctuaries brought under the umbrella of Project Tiger.

Things To Be Aware Of

Animals that you can see in Bandipur , Most famous for its elephants and tigers, Bandipur is also known for its large gaur and chital populations. Elephants are found here, though most are migrant, not residents. The forests of Mudumalai seem to be a more preferred long-term home. From April to November, elephants are generally within the sanctuary and can be seen bathing in the forest lakes. They roam vast areas to feed and browse almost continuously through the day. In summer the availability of bamboo, tall grasses and water is better in Mudumalai, which is why they come here. You can easily spot them at waterholes.

Important Phone Numbers

Forest Department Cottages
Bandipur National Park
Tel: 08229 236043 (O), 08229 236025 (R)
Fax: 0821-636044

The Chief Wildlife Warden,
Aranya Bhawan,
Bangalore - 560003
Tel.: 080-23341993/23345192

The Assistant Conservator of Forests,
Vani Vilas Road,
Mysore- 570 002 (Ph:0821- 211559)

Location info

• **Distances:**80 km from Mysore and 220 km from Bangalore.

• Camping Sites:

• Trek Length: The highest point of the park is at Gopalswamy Betta peak at 1,454 meters,Spreading across 880.02 sq km

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Bandipur trek

October to February is the ideal trekking season in Karnataka — pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Post-monsoon (October-November) offers lush green landscapes and flowing waterfalls. March to May can be hot for trekking. Monsoon (June-September) treks are challenging with slippery trails and leeches.

How to reach Bandipur trek

Bandipur trek is accessible from the nearest town by road. KSRTC buses connect to the base village. From there, the trek begins on foot. Local guides can be arranged at the base. It is advisable to arrive the previous evening and start the trek early morning.

Timings & opening hours

Trekking is recommended during daylight hours (6:00 AM to 5:00 PM). It is strongly advised to complete the trek and descend before sunset. Forest entry permits may be required — check with the local forest office.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee may apply if the trek is within a forest area or national park — typically ₹50-₹100 per person. Some trekking routes are free. Guide fees (if mandatory): ₹500-₹1500 depending on the route and group size.

Duration needed

The trek duration varies from 2-6 hours round trip depending on the route and fitness level. Moderate difficulty — suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. Some sections may be steep. Plan for 3-5 hours including rest stops and summit time.

Safety tips

Always trek with a local guide or in a group — do not trek alone. Start early (by 6:00-7:00 AM) to avoid the midday heat and complete the trek before dark. Carry sufficient water (at least 2 litres). Wear proper trekking shoes with good grip. Watch for leeches during monsoon. Inform someone about your trek plan.

Things to carry

Trekking shoes, 2-3 litres of water, snacks/energy bars, first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, raincoat (monsoon), torch/flashlight, mobile phone with backup battery, whistle for emergencies, and a small backpack.

Nearby visiting places

Nearby attractions include other trekking peaks, waterfalls, viewpoints, temples, and forest trails. The Western Ghats offer multiple trekking routes in the vicinity.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station depends on location — typically in the district headquarters. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) or Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Buses to the base village are available from the nearest town.

History of Bandipur trek

Bandipur trek is a popular trekking destination in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, offering challenging and scenic trails through lush forests and rocky terrain. The peak/area is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests. The region has traditionally been home to indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations.

Things to do at Bandipur trek

The primary activity is trekking to the summit/viewpoint. Along the way, enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the Western Ghats. Bird watching and photography are rewarding. At the summit, spend time enjoying the panoramic views. Camping is permitted in designated areas on some routes.

Things to visit & highlights

The summit/viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats, the forest trails themselves with diverse vegetation, any caves or rock formations along the route, and nearby waterfalls that can be visited after the trek.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a guide for the trek? Hiring a local guide is strongly recommended — they know the terrain, weather patterns, and can share local knowledge. Some treks require a mandatory forest guide.

What fitness level is required? Most treks in Karnataka are moderate difficulty. A reasonable level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Is camping allowed? Camping may be permitted in designated areas on certain trekking routes. Check with the local forest office beforehand and carry all necessary equipment.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Trekking

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Bandipur trek

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Bandipur trek on popular travel photography sites and social media.