Places To Visit In Bandipur For A Picturesque Outing In Karnataka

Route leading to Bandipur in Karnataka

Located in Karnataka, Bandipur is a place with great biodiversity. It is surrounded by the popular Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. You must check out places to visit in Bandipur for a great visit to this destination as you explore the scenic landscapes with your loved ones. This destination is near exceptional national parks and is a great destination for nature enthusiasts. It is a peaceful escape from your daily life, offering an ideal destination for rejuvenation and relaxation.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Bandipur

It is time to start planning your next vacation by taking the first step as you check out the places to visit near Bandipur.

1. Bandipur National Park

Signboard of Bandipur National Park in Karnataka

Photo: Vinaysalimath / Wikimedia Commons

This is a popular wildlife sanctuary situated in the southern part of India. It was established in the year 1974 as part of the larger Nigri bias reserve. It has a population of tigers and other big cats like leopards and wild dogs. You can spot Chital, Sambar and Nilgai in this national park. Safari tours are available for guided nature exploration enabling the visitors to observe the scenic beauty of the area. You can click memorable photographs and learn more about the conservation efforts at this place.

Distance From Airport: 220 km
Things To Do: Wildlife safari, nature walk, bird watching, photography

2. Gopalaswamy Betta

Gopalaswamy Betta is among the places to visit in Bandipur

Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons

Located in Karnataka, India this place is a popular trekking destination with breathtaking views and lush green landscape. It has diverse wildlife including elephants, deer and a variety of birds. It is a paradise for bird watchers. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Gopalaswamy Temple where you can visit and offer prayers. The climate is pleasant, especially during the months of summer. This place is easily accessible by road.

Distance From Airport: 180 km
Things To Do: visit the temple, pray and participate in rituals

3. Mudumalai National Park

The panoramic view of Mudumalai National Park in Karnataka

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Located at the tri Junction of Karnataka, Caroline Tamil Nadu, this national park is popular due to its variety of flora and fauna including several endangered species. It is an important tiger reserve and has Indian elephants, Indian bison, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and langurs. You can find about 260 bird species including Indian peafowl and hawk eagle. Jeep safari and safari are extremely popular. Inside the park, there is an elephant camp where you can watch them being fed and bathed.

Distance From Airport: 90 km
Things To Do: bird watching, wildlife spotting

4. Nugu Reservoir

Nugu Reservoir is among the best places to visit in Bandipur

Photo: Александр К. / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a water body which is constructed across the river Nugu and is located in Beerwah Village. It is a scenic water body with rolling hills and forests. It is home to species of flora and fauna including elephants, deer and a variety of birds. You can spot migratory birds at this place. It is a great place for recreational activities like photography and nature walks. It has a tranquil environment around it for picnics and meditation. October to May is considered as the ideal time to visit.

Distance From Airport: 210 km
Things To Do: picnic, bird watching

5. Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple

Himavad Gopalaswamy Temple, a place to visit in Bandipur in Karnataka

Photo: athulvis / Wikimedia Commons

This temple is a revered Hindu site of worship in ChamarajaNagar district of Karnataka. It has historical significance as it was constructed in the 14th century and showcases a rich cultural heritage. It has a scenic location in Karnataka and is situated at a height of about 1400 m. Festivals like Janmashtami are celebrated with great vibrance in the region. This is situated in a cool climate zone and is an ideal place to visit during the summer months. It is easily accessible and the trek to the temple is exciting in nature.

Distance From Airport: 180 km
Things To Do: visit the temple, trekking

6. Masinagudi

Masinagudi is among the places to visit in Bandipur

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

It is an attractive village located in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu sharing a border with Karnataka. It is in close proximity to national parks like Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai National Park. It is a great site for wildlife spotting. The Flora and fauna of this area are praiseworthy. You can enjoy a Safari tour, trekking and hiking in this region. It is known for its scenic beauty providing a serene environment for a perfect backdrop. The cultural experience includes a mix of tribal and local communities where you can get an insight into their way of life.

Distance From Airport: 105 km
Things To Do: wildlife safari, nature walk, photography

7. Biligiriranga Hills

Biligiriranga Hills, a place of attraction for tourists

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Also known as BR Hills, this mountain range in the Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka is a popular place to visit in Southern India. It has breathtaking views of lush forests and valleys offering a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. You can trek and hike the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The best time to visit is from October to May as the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. This place is inhabited by indigenous tribes which are mostly engaged in agriculture.

Distance From Airport: 170 km
Things To Do: trekking, hiking

8. Moyar River

Moyar River is a place to visit this year in Karnataka

Photo: A. J. T. Johnsingh / Wikimedia Commons

This river flows through the Nilgiri Hills in Southern India and covers the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It has a geographical significance as it is a striking natural feature formed by a river cutting through the hills. The majority of the park is that of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which is a UNESCO-designated reserve. There are adventure activities to try like water rafting, and kayaking. There are scenic views which you can enjoy through photography and nature walks.

Distance From Airport: 90 km
Things To Do: bird watching, wildlife spotting

9. Theppakadu Elephant Camp

Theppakadu Elephant Camp is among the places to visit in Bandipur

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

This elephant camp is located within the Mudumalai National Park in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is popular for the rehabilitation of elephants rescued from captivity or distressing situations. The camp provides a natural habitat to the elephants allowing them to recover. Various educational programs are conducted for the conservation of elephants. October to May is the ideal time to visit. Visitors are expected to respect the wildlife and carry essentials like sunscreen during their visit.

Distance From Airport: 88 km
Things To Do: Elephant feeding and interaction, elephant safari

10. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is among the best places to visit in Bandipur

Photo: Outlander07 / Wikimedia Commons

This wildlife sanctuary is a protected area located in the district of Kerala, India. It was established in the year 1973 and is home to a variety of plants and animals. There are a number of endangered species like that of elephants, tigers, leopards and bird species. This sanctuary is divided into Muthanga, Tholpetty and Kurichiat. There are nature trails to explore along with the forest and hills. You can take a guided tour to explore the entire region. Maintaining a safe distance from animals should be followed as a safety measure.

Distance From Airport: 100 km
Things To Do: wildlife safari, photography, bird watching

Now that you have checked the places to visit in Bandipur, this place guarantees several scenic spots for a great holiday in the lap of nature. There are numerous reasons to visit this place for a mesmerizing experience in Karnataka. Whether you love trekking or a photography enthusiast, this place has perfect surrounding areas with a diverse range of attractions.
Experience a great visit as you schedule your trip with TripXL for a relaxing time and learn about the importance of nature conservation.

Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best places to visit near Bandipur include Mudumalai National Park for more wildlife exploration, Gopalaswamy Betta for scenic views and a hilltop temple, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, offering rich biodiversity and lush green landscapes.
The best time to visit Bandipur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities. The monsoon (June to September) also brings lush greenery but can restrict animal sightings. Summers (April to June) are ideal for spotting wildlife near water sources.
Outdoor sites near Bandipur include Gopalaswamy Betta, a scenic hilltop for trekking, and the Nugu Reservoir, perfect for picnics and birdwatching. Moyar River and its canyon also offer beautiful views and nature trails.
Near Bandipur, you can shop for handcrafted wooden items, especially sandalwood and rosewood products, from Mysore. You can also find traditional silk sarees, spices, and local handicrafts in nearby towns like Ooty and Mysore.
Near Bandipur, you can enjoy traditional South Indian cuisine such as dosas, idlis, and vadas at local eateries. Some places also serve Karnataka specialities like bisi bele bath and ragi mudde. For a more diverse palate, resorts and restaurants near the park offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

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