How to Reach Bandipur National Park – Gateway to the Wilds of Karnataka

Located in the lush forests of the Western Ghats, Bandipur National Park is one of India’s best-preserved tiger habitats and part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Known for its stunning biodiversity and serene landscapes, Bandipur attracts nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts from across the country.

If you're planning your visit, here's your complete guide on how to reach Bandipur National Park by air, train, and road.

✈️ By Air: Nearest Airports to Bandipur

Bandipur does not have its own airport, but it’s easily accessible from nearby major cities.

1. Mysore Airport (MYQ)✅ Distance: ~75 km✔ Travel Time: ~2 hours📌 Best for domestic travelers, limited flights from Bengaluru and Chennai

2. Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR)✅ Distance: ~220 km✔ Travel Time: ~5–6 hours📌 Major airport with connections from all over India and abroad

3. Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – Tamil Nadu✅ Distance: ~170 km✔ Travel Time: ~4 hours📌 A good alternative if you're exploring Tamil Nadu before heading to Bandipur

🚆 By Train: Nearest Railway Stations to Bandipur

There is no railway station in Bandipur itself, but the park is well connected through these nearby stations:

1. Mysuru Junction (MYS)✅ Distance: ~80 km✔ Travel Time: ~2 hours by cab or bus📌 Well-connected with major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai

2. Nanjangud Railway Station (NDM)✅ Distance: ~50 km✔ Travel Time: ~1.5 hours📌 Ideal for travelers coming via Mysuru; limited train options

3. Chamarajanagar Railway Station (CMNR)✅ Distance: ~60 km✔ Travel Time: ~1.5 hours📌 Regional connectivity; less crowded than Mysuru

🚗 By Road: How to Reach Bandipur by Car or Bus

Bandipur lies directly on National Highway 766 (NH 766), which makes road travel smooth and scenic.

✅ From Mysuru: ~80 km / 2 hours✅ From Bengaluru: ~220 km / 5–6 hours✅ From Ooty: ~50 km / 1.5 hours✅ From Coimbatore: ~170 km / 4 hours

📌 KSRTC buses operate from Mysuru and Bengaluru to Bandipur. Taxis and private vehicles are easily available as well.

🚙 Travel Tip: The Mysuru–Bandipur route via Nanjangud is the most convenient and picturesque. Night travel is restricted within the forest stretch (9 PM to 6 AM), so plan accordingly.

🚪 Entry Gates & Safari Zones

Bandipur offers both Jeep Safaris and Minibus Safaris, conducted by the Forest Department.

✅ Safari Starting Point: Bandipur Reception Centre, near the main gate✔ Safari Timings:

• Morning: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM

• Evening: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM📌 Bookings available on-site; arrive early during peak season

🧭 Travel Tips

• 📅 Best time to visit: October to May (avoid monsoon for better sightings)

• 🐘 Animals commonly seen: Tigers, Elephants, Gaurs, Leopards, Deer

• 🧳 Carry binoculars, cameras, sunscreen, and light cotton clothes

• ⚠ No private vehicles allowed inside core safari zones—use forest vehicles only

🌿 Experience the Untamed Beauty of Bandipur

Bandipur is more than just a national park—it's a sanctuary where nature thrives undisturbed. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Bandipur offers a blend of thrilling safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity.