Chennai - Bandipur Sight Seeing Information

8/7/2019 Chennai - Bandipur Sight Seeing Information

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Chennai to Bandipur Places of TourismRoute:Chennai-Vellore-Krishnagiri-Dharmapuri-Salem-Perundurai-Avinashi-Annur-Mettupalayam-Coonoor-Adderley Estate (near Dolphin's Nose)-Coonoor-Ooty-Masinagudi (36 Hairpin Bends)-Bandipur.

Places of Tourism between Chennai to Bandipur:

Vellore:

Vellore had the privilege of being the seat of the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan

Kingdoms. It was described as the best and the strongest fortress in the Carnatic War in the 17th Century. It was

witnessed the massacre of European soldier during the mutiny of 1806.

Vellore district lies between 12 15 to 13 15 North latitudes and 78 20 to 79

50 East longitudes in Tamilnadu State. The geographical area of this district is 6077 sq. k.m. The total population

as per 1991 Census is 30,26,432.

One of the monuments of Vellore is the Fort. A very close examination of the stone inscriptions suggests that theFort in all probability might have been built during the rule of Chinna Bommi Nayak (1526 to 1595 A.D.). TheFort is one of the most perfect specimens of Military architecture in South India. The Jalakandeswarar Templeinside the Fort is a very fine example of Vijayanagar architecture. The Kalyanamantap on the left of the entrance,with intricate carvings and delicacy of execution bears testimony to the engineering marvel and advanced state ofsculpture of the times.

Vellore Fort Jalakanteswarar Temple -Inside the Fort, Elagiri - Lake, Palar Anaicut Dam, KavalurObservatory, Tippu mahal Arcot, Delhi Gate - Arcot , Mordhana Dam, Jalagamparai, Jalagamparai -Water FallsVellore Fort
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Vellore Fort, built by the Nayakar chieftains of the Vijayanagar Empire is completely built of granite blocks. It was

built in the 16th century and frequently exchanged hands between various strong empires. But still it holds an aura

about its personality that is inferior to none. The fort is now promoted by the state government as a historical tourist

destination. This is the main attraction of the Vellore city and sees the maximum number of foot falls to any

attraction in the city.

Jalakanteshwara Temple

Jalakanteshwara Temple was built in the year 1550 A.D. The temple is a small architectural wonder of Vijayanagar.

The temple is within the fort complex and the walls of the temple are full of carvings of Nandi and small gopuras.

You will find amazing work in the corridors as well. The temple was considered a masterpiece at the time of its

construction and now it has become a marvel on this land of Vellore.

Muthu Mandapam

Muthu Mandapam is also called the 'Pearl Palace'. This is a memorial, which is built around the tombstone of the

last Kandy Tamil ruler, Vikramraja Singh. It is situated just steps away from Vellore town towards north and is built

on the bed of River Palar. The memorial is on a major alteration plan and is said that it will be added with a Children

park, an aquarium and a lot more.

Government Museum


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The Government Museum is situated besides the main bus stand in Lakshmanaswamy Town Hall. The museum is

under the watch of Department of Museums. This might be the most unusual museum that you will ever see. It has

in its collection, artifacts from many fields like anthropology, art, archeology, pre-history, botany, geology. Except for

government holidays, the museum is open on all days from 9a.m to 12 noon and from 2 p.m. to 5p.m.

Krishnagiri

Introduction

Krishnagiri, a mountainous terrain and full of flatlands, is the headquarters of Krishnagiri District in Tamil Nadu.Gorge upon the tastiest mangoes in the world here at Krishnagiri. The district is also home to one of the mostindustrialized places in India, Hosur.

Location

Krishnagiri district is bounded by Vellore and Thiruvannamalai districts in the East, Karnataka in the west, Andhra

Pradesh in the North, and Dharmapuri District in the south.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit krishnagiri is between the months of November and March.

History

Krishnagiri District, formerly known as Ariyalur District, is full of black granite hillocks, and hence named asKrishnagiri (Krishna refers to 'black' and giri refers to 'hill). Krishnagiri played a significant role in the Mysore Warsagainst the British.

Tourist Attractions

Krishnagiri Dam:


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Located about 10 km from Krishnagiri, this dam is an excellent spot for picnic Built in between the years1955-57, this dam sprawls over an area of 50 acres, with its either side being decked with beautiful flowergardens.

Government Museum:

The museum houses exhibits from various subjects such as Archeology, Anthropology, Botany, Zoology,Geography, etc, and is a means to spread the tradition, heritage, culture and art of the region.

Places around Krishnagiri

Explore the land of Krishnagiri, visiting the places around it, while on a Tour to Krishnagiri

Arulmigu Maragathambigai Chandra Choodeswarar Temple:

Located in Hosur on National Highway 7, this temple stands on a hillock. Beside the temple are a children'spark and an observatory, setup by the tourism department.

Thally:


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Nestled amidst valleys and cliffs, this place situated 25 km from Hosur experiences cold and cloudyweather resembling England and is therefore referred to as Little England since the British days. Remnantsof the 16th century Denkanikottai Fort here is a major attraction, which was destroyed during war betweenHyder Ali and Tipu Sultan.

Kelevarapalli Dam:

Constructed in 1995, this dam is situated 10 km from Hosur.

Dharmapuri

Intro:

The principal tourist attraction here is the temple and the reputed people associated with it. Sri Adinarayana Rao ofKambainallur had been a responsible officer under the British Sir Thomas More. He had been an ardent follower ofSri Anjaneya Swami.

His daily routine consisted of a visit to the temple, and lighting a lamp at the feet of the great deity. After this he fedhis near and dear ones, at home and also on his way to his office. For three long generations this process iscontinued and Sri Adinarayana Rao is famous his habits. He perhaps felt good while doing good to so many; and soin the heart of his heart he must have felt that "When I do good, I feel good; when I do bad, I feel bad, and that is myreligion."

But while he was transferred to Dharmapuri and so for the entire day he went without food. Soon afterwards, he

established a temple for the great deity and worshipped him. All this happened 100 years ago. So, the temple stillstands today and glorifies the action of a noble soul.

Tourist Attractions:

The main tourist destinations near Dharmapuri are

Green House: This is an orchard cum nursery of Rose Plants. There is also a Horticultural ResearchInstitute in the Rose Garden.

Kolli Hills: This is a hill station and the Arrappaleeswarar Temple is located here. The unique fall at theplace is worth a visit and people remember this throughout their lives.


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Mettur Dam: This has been constructed in a gorge; here the river Kaveri enters the plain.

Theerthamalai : One of the most sacred places of Tamil Nadu, this is the site of the revered ShriTheerthagirishwarar Temple, which is regarded by history to be one of the most respected temples of theChola and the Vijayanagara Kings. This is also the site for the celebrations of the Mahashivarathiri, one ofthe most auspicious days of the Hindu calendar.

Hanumanthathirtham :Closely associated with the Theerthagirishwarar Temple, Hanumanthathirtham islocated at a distance of 10 Km from Uthangarai. According to an ancient legend, this place has strongassociations with the Ramayana and is believed to be one of the most sacred places in Tamil Nadu. Amust visit if you are planning a tour to Dharmapuri.

The other places of worship in Dharmapuri include Agasthya Theertham, Agni Theertham. Kumara Theertham,

Rama Theertham, Vashista Theertham and the Gouri Theertham Places Around Dharmapuri

SALEM:

Intro

Encircled by several hilly ranges, Salem is a city and a municipal corporation in Salem district in Tamil Nadu.Positioned at the center of the state, Salem is well-known for cotton and silk handloom weaving.

Location


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Salem, one of the largest cities of Tamil Nadu, is located in the Western part of the state.

Best Time To Visit

Salem enjoys a tropical climate round the year. For a Tour to Salem, the best time to visit is between the months ofNovember and March.

History

The name Salem perhaps originated from the word Sela or Shalya, which refers to the country around the hills, asfound in the inscriptions. According to local tradition, Salem is the birth place of Tamil poetess Avvaiyar.

Tourist Attractions

Make your Tour to Salem a memorable experience by visiting these famous tourist places in Salem

Kottai Mariamman Temple:

There are several Mariamman temples in Salem, of which the Kottai Marriamman temple is the mostrenowned. Mariamman is a Hindu goddess, an incarnation of Shakti.

Government Museum:

This museum at Salem preserves valuable collections of terracotta's and sculptures.

Hogenakkal Waterfalls:

One of the most amazing waterfalls in the state, this waterfall is unique for its vertical drop from a height of20 meters.

Places around Salem

Explore the land of Salem, visiting the places around it, while on a Tour to Salem

Yercaud:


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This small, tranquil hill town situated in the Shevaroy Hills has a charming landscape that comprises ofcoffee plantations and densely forested slopes.

Poiman Karadu:

9 km from Yercaud is Poiman Karadu, which can be seen from the plains to the east of the hill. You will geta hazy sight of a deer with two horns, visible in a cave between rocks on the hill. As you move closer, thestrange vision gradually vanishes.

Tharamangalam:

Famous for the Kailasanatha Temple, this place is situated 27 km from Salem. Decked with exquisitestatues and stone carvings, a special attraction of the place is the rotating lotus flower in the ceiling.

Avinashi


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Avinashi The Lingeswarar temple located here is about 40 km from Coimbatore. Avinashi is also

known as the Banaras of the South. The place dates back to the 12th century A.D. This is the biggesttemple in Coimbatore district, and the Chola rulers built it. There are some fine stone carvings in this

temple. The old name of this place was Pikkoigul.

Conoor:

Coonoor is a fabulous hill station in the Nilgiri hills about 19 km from Ooty. Coonoor, located at an altitude of 1,856meters, is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiri hills.

The Sim's Park with all its natural beauty was constructed in 1874 has unique trees and plants. Fascinating andunforgettable view points for tourist are Lamb's Rock, Dolphin's Nose; Lady Canning's Seat to name a few. Touristcan avail of the Toy train facility to get a detailed view of this place.

Coonoor called as a small tea garden. Coonoor is the first of the three hill stations in the Nilgiri- Ooty, Kotagiri andCoonoor. The Sim's Park with all its natural beauty was constructed in 1874 has unique trees and plants. Coonooris a right spot for the lover of nature. It sparkles with fresh vegetation and sceneries. Coonoor has a number of idealpicnic spots which are green feast for the eyes of the visitors.

Coonoor is a fantastic spot for the tourist in India. It is noted for the different varieties of birds. Various species ofvultures, eagles and owls, song birds like bulbuls, thrushes, babblers, larks, cuckoos, robins and several others actas melodious music gives new adventure effect for the visitors who are accustomed to the city sound pollution.

Pomological StationThis is one of the three experimental fruit gardens in the Nilgris maintained by the Horticultural Department. Theother two are Burliar and Kallar on the Coonoor - Mettupalayam ghat road. Apples, Plums, Peaches, Persinments,


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Lemons, Apricots and Pomogranates are grown here for the purpose of research. Surplus fruits and fruit basedjams are sold to the public.

Silk Rearing Station

Adjoining the Pasteur Institute there is a Silk Rearing Station maintained by the Central Silk Board. The Sericultural

experts at this station may be contacted for special assistance.

Laws Falls

The Place is a beautiful picnic spot, situated at Coonoor-Mettupalayam Road at the distance of 7 Kms from

Coonoor. The height of the falls is about 180 feet. There are vast stretches of undisturbed sholas and it is a

paradise for Naturalists.

Lamb's Rock

It is 8 Kms from Coonoor on the way to Dolphin's Nose. It commands a grand view of the Coimbatore Plains. It is a

favourite place for tourists.

Lady Caninng's Seat

From Coonoor it is 9 Kms. It is marked by a small house and commands panoramic view of the tea estates and the

plains.

Dolphin's Nose

The view point is 10 Kms from the town. The Nose is a unique rock of tremendous proportions which looks like a

Dolphin.

The Droog

This is also a picnic spot which is used by Tippu Sultan as an outpost. It is 15 Kms from Coonoor and stands 6000

feet high overlooking the plains. Three kilometers of trekking has to be done to reach the point


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OOTY:

To feel the touch of nature, Ooty is a right spot for the lover of nature. It is located at a distance of 105 km away

from Coimbatore. It sparkles with fresh vegetation and sceneries. It is queen of all hill station. The height of the

hills in the Nilgiri range varies between 2280 and 2290 meters. It attracts the tourist by its charming flowers. Lofty

mountains, dense forest, acres and acres of tea estates are green feast for the eyes of the tourist.

The fast food world man runs his life in this world of tension; and living in the sweltering heat; to while away his

short leisure hour he can spend that with nature (ooty).The weather of valley is salubrious. Ooty is a best place to

know the culture and tradition of India and tribal people.

Botanical gardens, lambs rock and Dobabetta peak, kalhatty fallskandal, cross shrine, mini garden and rose

garden; Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park are till more amusing places in Ooty and its surroundings.

Ooty lake boating is a remarkable spot which highly entertains the tourist. Udagamandalam otherwise called as

Ooty. Its mountain train journey on a ratchet and restrain track which commences from kallar will give a new

adventures effect. Finally Nature never betrays the tourist.

Government Botanical Garden(2 Kms)


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This garden was laid out earlier by Marquis of Tweedale, the then governor of Madras in 1847. This garden coversan area of 22 acres. A fossil tree trunk of 20 million years is preserved here. The flora of the garden consist of sixsection comprising varieties of tree species, grass carpet, variety of ferns, fashioned beds laid beds laid out in anItalian style, multi coloured flowering plants, house ferns and orchids and nurseries. This garden will create tourist'smind a memorable one. Annual flower show is held here in May every year. This garden is maintained by TamilNadu Horticulture Dep

Lake View

About one Km. distance, an artificial lake can be seen with a charming look, which was formed in 1824 by Mr. JohnSullivan,the then Collector of Coimbatore. Tamil Nadu tourism Development Corporation provided the followingfacilities to the tourists.

Doddabetta

It is the highest peak (2623 meters) in the Nilgiris and is about 10 Kms from Ooty. It lies at the junction ofthe Western & Eastern Ghats and offer beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri Hill ranges. It is surrounded by densesholas. One can have a panoramic view of the landscape through the TTDC telescope. TTDC restaurant isfunctioning here to cater the needs of tourists. Forest Department is collecting entry fee from vehicles.

The Mukkurthi Peak & National Park


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Mukkurthi Peak is about 40 Kms. form Ooty. The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of theNilgiris Plateau. The area contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitragus hilocrius). The Kollaribetta andNilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. The area is chained by innumberable beautiful and perennial littlestreams,which fall into Bhavani Puzha. The Silent Vally in the Western Ghat is located on the Western side of theseranges. A fascinating feature of the Mukkurthi Sanctuary is its endemism and relationship with Himalayan Flora andfauna.

Hindustan Photo Films

The HPF, one of the major industrial units ot the district, is a public sector enterprise. This unit is located (about5Km away from Ooty railway station) over a sprawling area of over 300 acres,near the Ooty golf-links on the Ooty-Mysore road. The HPF was inaugurated by Mrs. Indra Gandhi, Prime Minister, in January, 1967.This industrial unitis currently producing Indu roll films which are used for taking photographs; Indu X-ray films, the quality of which isacknowledged to be among the best in the world; Indu bromide paper on which photographs are printed; andInduaerographic for geological and defence mapping, industrial X- ray film, laser recording film, CAT film, specialfilm for space photography, oscilloscope direct printpaper, photo type setting paper and range of chemicals for thefilm processing.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

This Sanctuary lies at an elevation of 1140 mts in the junction point of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu andextends over and area of 321 sq.kms.A variety of habitats ranging from tropical ever green forest, moist teak forest,secondary grass lands and swamps are found. Panther, Sambar,spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild boar,Porcupineetc. The avifauna is varied with Minivets. Hornbills, Fairy Blue Birds, Jungle Fowls etc. The Reptilions arerepresented by Python,MonitorLizard, Flying Lizard, etc. It is approachable from Ooty by road Via two differentroutes. Via Kalhatty 36 Kms from Ooty and the other route is Via. Gudulur which is 67 Kms. form Ooty. It can alsobe approachable from Mysore which is at a distance of 91'Kms. The other picturesque scenic spots in the sanctuaryinclude the Moyar Waterfalls,Ombetta swamp, Theppakad elephant camp etc.The sanctuary visiting times are: 7.00 a.m to 9.00 a.m and 4.00 p.m to 6.00 p.m.

Pykara


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It is situated about 21 kms from Ooty, on the Ooty-Mysore Road. The tourist attraction are well protected fencedsholas,Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat.The Pykara Dam,Pykarafalls and the reservoir attracts many tourists.There is a forest Rest House at Pykara. a boat House with Restaurantis available.It is maintained by TTDC.

Deer ParkIt is located at a distance of one Km. on lake road which has Sambar, Chital and Hares besides water birds.

Mysore

The beautiful city of Mysore is located at a distance of approximately 80 kms from the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary.The city is known for it glorious historical past and is truly spectacular. There are several beautiful locations atMysore that you would love visiting. Some of the major tourist destinations include the Brindavan Gardens, theChamundi Hills, the Mysore zoo, The Jagmohan Palace (which has a lovely collection of Ravi Varma paintings) andlast but not the least the Towering Mysore Palace which is a significant landmark of Mysore standing testimony toits glorious past.

Famous for/as: Heritage

Best Season: Throughout the year

Weather: Summer 23-35C, Winter 15-23C

Altitude: 763 m

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (Srirangapatna, part of Mysore)

The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located about 5 km away from Srirangapatna. It is spread in an 57 acres

area. The sanctuary is a small island on the banks of river Kaveri. It is a place of interest to all bird lovers. The

sanctuary is a nesting and breeding center for all kinds of birds.


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One can see species like the herons, egrets, white ibis. Also little cormorants, dantes, open billed stork etc. are also

some of the birds that can be seen in island when one takes a round by a boat.

The best time of visit to the island is from June to October.

Nagarhole, Karnataka (part ofKabini region)

Nagarhole, meaning Snake River in Kannada, is a small town in Karnataka where Nagarhole National Park issituated. It is a picture perfect tourist spot with lush green forests, mind taking water falls, temples related to Indianmythology and places of cultural importance. Nagarhole derives its name from the winding course of the river like asnake that flows through the forests. Explore the environs of Nagarhole, feel the amazing beauty of the nature andtake a moment of bliss to remember.

Green is the keyword for any of the sites that you visit in and around Nagarhole. And the experience of being close

to the Mother Nature is very thrilling. Though there are a number of sites to visit around Nagarhole, theRanganathittu Bird Sanctuary and the Bandipur National Park are the two destinations that one must not miss. Thedifferent species of birds in the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and the natural habitat of some of the rare species offlora and fauna along with the Asiatic Elephant in the Bandipur National Park make them the nature loversdestinations.

Travel within city

The Nagarhole National Park is located around 94 km from Mysore. The nearest railway station is located in Mysoreand there are cabs available from the station. The Mysore airport is also the nearest one to Nagarhole Nationalpark. Cabs charge around Rs 1500 for the trip from Mysore to Nagarhole. Since most of the Nagarhole NationalPark is dense forest and dirt tracks it is very difficult for normal vehicles to travel in these roads. Vehicles can travel

along the roads of the park only from 6 am to 6 pm. The guest house of the forest department houses most of thetravelers. The forest department vans are the only vehicles that are allowed to travel the tracks of the NagarholeNational Park. Special permits are also required from the forest department to travel these roads.

All traffic is closed during the monsoon season which is the mating season of the animals. Special tours andeducational visits for children can be arranged through the forest department. These are conducted under thesupervision of the officials and only in the forest department vehicles. Due to the nature of the roads only certaintypes of vehicles such as jeeps and other four wheel drives can traverse these roads.

District: MysoreFamous for/as: WildlifeLanguages: Kannada, English, HindiBest Season: Oct - MayWeather: Summer 22-40C, Winter 10-32C.Altitude: 700-850 m
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BandipurState: KarnatakaDistrict: Chamarajanagar, GundlupetArea: Bandipur 87,420 hectares.Famous for/as: WildlifeLanguages: Kannada, English, Hindi

Best Season: Mar - Jun, Sep - NovWeather: Summer 22-40C, Winter 10-27CAltitude: 1454 m

Established: Bandipur, 1931 as a sanctuary, 1941 as a national park, 1973 as a tiger reserve.

About Bandipur

Bandipur, established in 1931, is a wonderful wildlife centre. Bandipur National Park (BNP) is one of India's bestknown protected areas. Tourists visit this place to admire the breathtaking beauty of nature and also to enjoy a quietvacation far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Bandipur was the chosen site for Project Tiger in 1973. This is an initiative taken by the Government of India toprotect the endangered species.

Terrain

Bandipur is located in the Chamarajanagar district of southern Karnataka in South India. The park stretches over874 square kilometres (337 sq mi), protecting the wildlife of Karnataka. Close to other sanctuaries like Mudumalai,Wynaad and Nagarahole, Bandipur maintains its own distinctive identity.

The Kabini, Moyar and Nugu Rivers drain the area. Besides the rivers, there are many seasonal streams flowingthrough the region. This place is under Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is also the first Biosphere Reserve of the

country.

History :

The 865 sq km area that comprises the Bandipur Reserve was once the Mysore Maharaja's private huntingground. After the Mysore Game and Forest Preservation Regulation Act of 1931, 90 sq km was designated as agame sanctuary. In 1941, it became part of the 'Venugopal Wildlife Park', a larger national park, with an area of 800sq km that also encompassed some areas of Mudumalai, Nagarahole and Wynaad. The park was notified under theWildlife Protection Act of 1972. In 1973, the heart of Venugopal National Park that constituted Bandipur wasrecognised as Bandipur National Park and it became one of the 15 sanctuaries brought under the umbrella ofProject Tiger.

Bandipur National Park:

Nestled well amidst the towering Western Ghat Mountains on the Mysore-Ooty highway, the Deccan Plateauhouses one of the first Tiger Reserves of the country - The Bandipur National Park. Situated in Karnataka, theBandipur National Park includes the neighbouring wildlife sanctuaries of Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Naduand Wayanad in Kerala. A moderate climate and diverse geographical features support a remarkable variety of floraand fauna. Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the 15 sanctuaries belonging to the Project Tiger Schemelaunched in 1973, by the World Wide Fund for Nature. In 1974, the Bandipur was declared a National Park underthe Wildlife Protection Act. The Bandipur National Park is one of its own kind in Asia as it has huge elephant herds.

Flora and Fauna in Bandipur National Park

The Bandipur National Park is covered with a mix of deciduous forests, evergreen forests and scrub, which isprovided by the waters of the Moyar River. The major types of fauna in this reserve are the Asian elephant, gaur,sambhar, chital, mouse deer, four horned antelope, wild pig, black naped hare and the Indian porcupine. Apart from

being home to the Asiatic elephant, Bandipur also has a large number of tigers, which count around 66 in number.The scrub jungles consist of stunted trees, bushes and open grassy patches. In the northwestern area, thevegetation contains the open dry deciduous forests to tropical mixed deciduous forests.


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Avian Population in Bandipur National Park

The Bandipur region is also rich in avian population. Peafowl and the game birds like the grey jungle fowl, red spurfowl etc. are the most common avians found in the national park. The Kabini backwaters and the larger tanks attractcormorants, ducks, herons, teals, and waders. Among the woodland birds the hawk eagle, serpent eagle, thecollared scops owl, the yellow-legged green pigeon, parakeets, woodpeckers and barbets, hornbills, drongos,scarlet minivets, and diverse warblers can be easily seen in the national park.

When to Visit Bandipur National Park

Bandipur is a tourists' paradise from April to October. During summer, the backwaters of the Kabini Reservoirprovide the best opportunity to the tourists to observe large mammals, especially the elephant and the gaur. Thebest time to spot elephant herds is in the rainy season. Other animals found in this forest are gaur (a type of bull),sambhar, chital, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, jackal, sloth bear, panther, Malabar squirrel,porcupines, and the black-naped hare.

Major Flora In Bandipur

The Bandipur National Park is home to a rich variety of flora. The place has thick vegetation in the form oftrees of different kinds of trees, bushes, grass and thick undergrowth. You would find a number of varietieslike the Tectona Grandis, Bambusa Arundinacea, Dalbergia Latifolia, Terminalia Tomentosa, AnogeisusLatifolia, Terminalia Chebula, Pterocarpus Marsupium, Adina Cordifolia, Randia Uliginosa, AmblicaOfficianalis to name a few. For the nature lover, the Bandipur National Park is a treasure house waiting to beexplored.

Major Fauna In Bandipur

Bandipur houses several exotic varieties of fauna. While on your safari here do keep a look out for many animals.The monsoons add to the already existing beauty of the Bandipur sanctuary. The animals in their natural habitat area real treat to watch.

Birds

Common Vabbler, Wood Pecker, Warbler, Weaverbird, Kingfisher, Drongo, Fly catche, Hornbill etc.
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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 morepreferred long-term home. From April to November, elephants are generally within the sanctuary and can be seenbathing in the forest lakes. They roam vast areas to feed and browse almost continuously through the day. Insummer the availability of bamboo, tall grasses and water is better in Mudumalai, which is why they come here. Youcan easily spot them at waterholes.

The wild boar can be seen in clearings or rooting near water bodies. Large herds of gaur can be seen grazingin forest clearings. According to naturalists only the fit lived through a serious rinderpest outbreak in 1968 andtherefore only the best genes have survived. The bonnet monkey and the common langur are found in troops.Jackals are not found in the tourism zone of the reserve but dhole (wild dog) packs are common. Sambar and chital

with their magnificent antlers, comprise the deer population that is the prey of the dhole and the tiger. You can spotsambar near water bodies though sightings in the dry forest are also possible.

Tigers in Bandipur are protected under Project Tiger. The number of tigers in 1972 was a pitiful 11, but hasgrown to five times this figure. Nevertheless, tigers are rarely seen and leopards even less so. The porcupine, theblack-naped hare and giant squirrels add to the assortment of smaller mammals. Muntjac, mouse deer and drovesof wild boar are seen frequently. Tortoise flourish in ponds and tanks throughout the reserve.

You may also be able to spot pythons, the common monitor and other snakes in the forests. Several insectsand arachnids are abundant just before and soon after the rains, making Bandipur a rare treat for entomologists.

Safari In Bandipur

The park can be seen in open jeeps which are available on hire inside the park. The facility of open vans withguides who would make it an interesting experience for you is also available. The much sought after elephant safariis an exciting feature of the Bandipur National Park wherein you could actually tour the park sitting on the back of anelephant.

The Bandipur van safari is a 30 minute drive in a 25 seater van costing Rs.75 per person. The timings forthe same are:

The jeep safari is for a maximum of six people at a time and there are two trips in the morning and two inthe evening which costs Rs.1750/- for a jeep (for a maximum number of 6 persons) and Rs.2000/- forforeign nationals. The timings for the same are:

The Bandipur Mudumalai elephant safari includes a 10 minute ride on the elephant in Bandipur whichwould cost you Rs.50/- per head. In Mudumalai, the elephant safari is for 30 minutes. The tickets for thesame are sold at the Ooty forest office and half the tickets are sold at the Mudumalai Theppakadureception counter. A maximum of four persons are taken on one elephant costing Rs.100 per head. Thetickets are sold on a first come first serve basis and so do make your bookings in advance to avoiddisappointment.

Climate:


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The region is warm and comfortable for most parts of the year with temperatures ranging from 24 to 28C, exceptfor the brief winter that lasts from October to January when the temperature hovers around the 19C mark.Monsoon is erratic, but it generally rains from June to September.

How to Reach Bandipur:

From Chennai:

By Road:

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) to Bandipur National Park (Karnataka) is 562 km and takes approx 9 hrs, 18 mins by road.

Airports and Railway Stations for Bandipur National Park

Airports near Bandipur National Park Type Arial Distance

Kozhikode Airport (CCJ) Domestic 87 km

Peelamedu Airport, Coimbatore (CJB) Domestic 107 km

Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) International 214 km
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Chennai International Airport (MAA) International 441 km

Railway stations near Bandipur National Park Arial Distance

Mysore Junction (MYS) 66 km

Some More Pics of Bandipur National park
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Dos and Donts

The BandipurNational Park is a Tiger Reserve and a wildlife sanctuary that is home to several species

of flora and fauna. Nature is truly at its best here and we must ensure that we do not harm the delicate balancethat is maintained. Thus, it is important that we follow a code of conduct while we are here to make this holiday awonderful experience memories of which we would cherish for life.

We must respect nature and the delicate balance that is maintained and must not act in any way thatdisturbs or harms it.

Booking accommodation in advance would be the best way to enjoy your holiday or else you may bedisappointed on your arrival here.

Preserve the available resources and ensure that you switch of all the switches and taps during yourstay here.

Enjoy your holiday here but dont make it too conspicuous that the animals get alarmed or are disturbed

in any way.

You must listen to the guide or the concerned authority and follow instructions. Stay in groups. Do notventure to unknown locations or try following animals. The jungle is a dangerous place and so to make it a safeand enjoyable vacation do as you are instructed.

Entry before sunrise and after sunset is strictly prohibited.

Please stop and let the animals cross the road, they definitely have the right of way as this is theirhome. Do not try feeding the animals it can make them sick.

Keep to the road.

Do not make too much sound. Musical instruments, tape recorders are strictly prohibited.

Smoking must be avoided, as one careless act can lead to a huge uncontrollable forest fire.

Do not litter or damage the place. Use the dustbins provided for the purpose.

Do not tease or try to interact with any animal it could have very serious consequences.

Guns and inflammable material is strictly prohibited.

The Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful location for a wonderful holiday and we have aresponsibility towards nature to let it be so. Follow the instructions and you would in turn be rewarded with a trulywonderful experience.


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More places around Bandipur

Sl.No

PlaceSta

te

Type

Distance

fromBandipur in

Km

Timeto

Travel

Famous for

Tags

1Mudumalai

TN

Popular 64 1:02 Wildlife

Wild life, Bird Watching,Hills

2Masinagudi

TN

Upcoming 66 1:05

Hillstation,Scenic

3 KabiniKA


Rivers, Camping,Wildlife, Bird Watching,Boating

4Wayanad

KL

Popular 55

Hillstation

Wildlife, Hills, Falls,Rivers, Dams, Caves

5 BellikalTN

Upcoming 88 1:29

Hillstation

Hill Stations, Lakes, Falls,Honeymoon, AyurvedicMassage

6 KalpettaKL

Unexplored 49 Temples Trekking, Caves, Scenic

7 OotyTN

Popular 94 1:36

Hillstation

Trekking, Hill Stations,Lakes, Falls, Gardens,

Tea Estates, Churches,Honeymoon, Wildlife

8 VythiriKL

Unexplored

Backwaters Scenic

9 RedhillsTN

Popular 111 1:56

Hillstation Hill Stations, Lakes, Wildlife

10

Nagarhole

KA


Wildlife, Bird Watching, Falls,Temples

11 Lakkidi

KL

Unexplored 64 1:06

Hillstation

Hill Stations, Lakes,Wildlife, Bird Watching

12

Munanthavady

KL

Unexplored 65 1:10 Temples Monument, Temples

1

3

Nilambu

r

K

L

Unexplore

d 96 1:47

Waterfal

l

Waterfall, Mueseum,

Scenic


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14 Coonoor

TN

Popular 113 1:53

Hillstation

Hill Stations, Falls,Gardens, Golf, Forts

1

5

Chamarajanaga

r

K

A

Unexplore

d 64 1:11

Historical

heritage16

Tholpetty

KL

Upcoming 85 1:43 Wildlife Wild life, temples

17 Mysore

KA

Popular 88 1:28 Heritage

Palaces, Lakes, Gardens,Museums, Churches,

Temples, AmusementParks

18

Srirangapatna

KA

Popular 103 1:44

Historical, Birdsanctuary

Bird Sanctuaries,Temples

19

Malapuram

KL

Upcoming 141 2:31 Temples Lake, Scenic

20

Siddapur

KA

Upcoming 154 2:44 Scenic

Rappelling, Kayaking,Fishing, Falls

2

1

Kozhiko

de

K

L

Popul

ar 120 1:53

Backwat

ers

Backwaters, Beaches,Fishing, Rivers, Dams,

Falls, Wildlife, Temples

22 Dubare

KA

Popular 153 3:01

widlife,trekking

wildklife,trekkinng,rivers,dams,rafting,fishing

23 BR Hills

KA

Upcoming 138 2:42

Scenic,wildlife

Trekking,rafting,fishing,wildlife

24

Shivanasamudaram

KA

Popular 141 2:22

waterfull falls,trekking,fishing

25

Coimbatore

TA

cosmopolitan 167 2:33 city

wildlife,temples,Garderns,rivers,dams,falls,Amusementparks

26

Malampuzha

KL

Upcoming 222 3:30 Dam

rivers,Dams,Gardens,wildlife

27 kakkabe

KA

Popular

Trekking

Trekking,rockclimbing,fishing,falls,temples,birdwatching

2

8

thalasse

ry

K

A

Upco

ming 138 2:24 Beaches

Beaches,forts,chruches,t

emples2 Palakka K Popul 216 3:24 Temples Scenic


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9 d A ar

30 madiken

Ka

Popular 171 3:08

hillstation

hillstations,falls,trekking,temples

31 coorg

KA

Popular 154 2:47

hillstation

hillstations,falls,trekking,temples,honeymoon

32

bheemeshwari

Ka

Popular 169 2:58

trekking,rafting

Trekking,rafting,fishing,boating

33 kannur

KA

Upcoming 159 2:40 Beaches Beaches,forts

34

talacauvery

Ka

Upcoming

pligrim,scenic piligrim

35 Tirupur

TN

Upcoming 191 3:05 lake,

lake,boating,temple,shopping

36

sravanbelagola

Ka

Popular 185 3:09

piligrim,temples pligrim

37 uttukuli

TN

Unexplored 191 3:09 Temples temple

38

nelliyampathy

KA

Unexplored 227 3:38

hillsatation

hillstations,trekking,teaestastes,

39

Guruvayur

KA

Upcoming 195 3:33 piligrim pligrim

40 pollachi

TN

Popular 208 3:19 Wildlife wildlife,temples

41 thrissur

KA

Popular 210 3:50 pilgrim pligrim

42

Anaimalai tn


hillstation,wildlife,trekking

43

kukkesubramanya

KA

Popular 268 4:50 pligrim

pligrim,temples,caves,hills,trekking,rivers

44 hassan

KA

Upcoming 206 3:30

scenic,heritage

45

Hogenakkal

TN

Popular

Waterfall

falls,rivers,trekking,massage

46

sakleshpur

KA

Upcoming 240 4:05

scenic,temples

47

Kodungallur Kl

Unexplored 284 4:11 Pligrim pligrim

4

8 Halebid

k

A

Popul

ar 237 4:02 Heritage temples,heritage4 Angama K Unex 255 4:30 city temples,historic


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9 ly Aplored

50 kalady

KA

Upcoming 260 4:34 pligrim pligrim

51 Bekal

KA

Upcoming 243 3:44

Backwaters,beaches

Beaches,forts,caves,backwaters

52

Bangalore

KA metro 218 3:50 city

consmpolitan,garderns,pubs,wildlife,IT,siliconvalley,museums,shopping,amusement parks,templeslakes

5

3 Hosur

T

N

Unexplore

d 244 4:27 Temples temple,scenic54

chikmagur

kA

Popular 265 4:28

hillstation hillstation,wildlife

55

Palanihills

TN

Popular

hillstation

hillsataion,pligrim,birdwatching

56

nrityagram

KA

Unexplored 259 4:26 culture dance

57 munnar

KA

Popular 313 5:05

hillstation

wildlife,birdsanctuaries,hillstations,teaesates,rockclimbing,rappelling,trekking,dams,honeymoon

58

yercaurd

TN

Popular scenic

caves,lakes,falls,garderns

59

Dharmapuri

TN

Unexplored Temples

temples,teertham,waterfull

60

Namakkal

TN

Upcoming 248 4:06

waterfall waterfall,fort,scenic

61 karur

TN

Unexplored 267 4:21

historical Archeological

62 kochi

KA

cosmopolitan 326 4:50

Beaches

lakes,beaches,fishing,forts,temples

63

Kodaikanal

TN

Popular

Hillstations

hillstations,rappelling,kayaking,forts,lakes,wildlife,

6

4

chottnik

kara

K

A

Unexplore

d 336 5:00

pligrim,t

emples Pligrim6 Horanad K Upco Historic Temples


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5 u A ming al

66

Dharamsthala

KA

Upcoming 311 5:17

pligrim,temples PLIGRIM

67 shivgiri

KA

Upcoming 277 4:37 scenic

hillstation,rappelling,kayaking,forts,lakes,wildlife ,rockclimbing

68

krishnagiri

TN

Unexplored 323 5;06

historical scenic,temples

69

kemmanagundi

KA

Upcoming scenic

hillstation,Trekking,falls,garden

70 idukki

KA

Upcoming 343 6:02 trekking trekking,boating,scenic

71

mangalore

KA

cosm

opolitan 310 4:44 Beaches

Beaches,temples,garderns,golf,chruches.

72

kudremukh

KA

Popular

Hillstation

hillstation,falls,rivers,dams wildlife

73

kamarajar

TN

Popular 326 5:37

lake,trekking

caves,lakes,falls,garderns

Documents

Chennai - Bandipur Sight Seeing Information