National Parks Near Bangalore: A Retreat To The Wildlife

Tigers can be seen at the national parks near Bangalore.

National parks near Bangalore offer a variety of natural experiences within accessible distances. Located in Karnataka, these parks are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. They provide a blend of flora and fauna unique to the region. Visitors can explore a range of activities, from birdwatching to trekking. With Bangalore as a central hub, these parks are easy to reach, making them perfect for short trips. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these parks promise memorable encounters with nature.

Top 10 National Parks Near Bangalore

Discover the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty of the 10 best national parks near Bangalore, each offering unique experiences and attractions:

1. Bannerghatta National Park

Elephants in the Bannerghatta National Park near Bangalore.

Photo: Rishitshivesh1017 / Wikimedia Commons

Bannerghatta National Park near Bangalore, is a diverse sanctuary that offers a close encounter with nature’s grandeur. Spanning over 104.27 square kilometres, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, hosting species like tigers, lions, and elephants. The park is also home to a butterfly park, where vibrant species flutter in natural habitats and a well-maintained zoo that appeals to visitors of all ages. Safari tours allow visitors to observe these majestic animals in their natural environment, offering an exciting experience.

Major Attractions: Safari, Butterfly Park, Zoo
Entry Fees: ₹80
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: 22 km from Bangalore

2. Nagarhole National Park

Elephants can be seen in the Nagarhole National Park near Bangalore.

Photo: Sankara Subramanian / Wikimedia Commons

Nagarhole National Park near Bangalore, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a sanctuary that represents the richness of India’s biodiversity. Encompassing part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this park is renowned for its dense forests and abundant wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. The park’s natural water bodies attract a variety of species, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Jeep safaris provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the park’s remote areas, where wildlife sightings are frequent and awe-inspiring.

Major Attractions: Jeep safari, tiger and elephant sightings
Entry Fees: ₹250
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 220 km from Bangalore

3. Bandipur National Park

Bison at the Bandipur National Park near bangalore.

Photo: Abhijeet1011 / Wikimedia Commons

Bandipur National Park, straddling the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, is a prominent park for India’s wildlife conservation efforts. As part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it plays a critical role in the protection of tigers and other endangered species. The park’s dry deciduous forests create an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, deer, and panthers. It’s a popular destination for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts who can enjoy safaris that provide a chance to observe these creatures in their natural surroundings.

Major Attractions: Tiger reserve, safari rides
Entry Fees: ₹300
Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: 220 km from Bangalore

4. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Mugger crocodile in the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Kandukuru Nagarjun / Wikimedia Commons

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats, is a hidden gem offering a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife diversity. As a designated tiger reserve, it also shelters leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. The sanctuary’s proximity to the Bhadra River adds a distinctive charm. It has boating excursions providing an opportunity to observe the area’s rich biodiversity from a different perspective. Safaris through the dense forests offer visitors a chance to see wildlife in a soothing and undisturbed environment.

Major Attractions: River boating, wildlife safari
Entry Fees: ₹200
Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:30 AM, 4 PM – 6 PM
Location: 285 km from Bangalore

5. BR Hils Wildlife Sanctuary

Common hawk cuckoo from BR Hills.

Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons

BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Karnataka, offers a remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts. Known for its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. The sanctuary also serves as a significant corridor for animal migration between the Eastern and Western Ghats, making it a crucial conservation zone. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through guided tours, jungle safaris, and bird-watching sessions. The surrounding hills provide a cool climate and diverse plants, enhancing the overall experience.

Major Attractions: Jungle safaris, wildlife spotting, bird watching
Entry Fees: ₹200
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 180 km from Bangalore

6. Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Cauvery wildlife sanctuary along the banks of the Cauvery River.

Photo: Jagadish Katkar / Wikimedia Commons

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, stretching along the banks of the Cauvery River, offers a blend of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife experiences. This sanctuary is particularly known for its fishing opportunities, especially for the Mahseer fish, a prized catch among anglers. The sanctuary’s varied terrain also provides excellent trekking trails, where visitors can spot wildlife and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Birdwatchers will find the sanctuary particularly rewarding, as it’s home to numerous species that thrive in this lush environment.

Major Attractions: Fishing, trekking, birdwatching
Entry Fees: ₹100
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 100 km from Bangalore

7. Kudremukh National Park

Hilly grassland at Kudremukh National Park.

Photo: solarisgirl / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kudremukh National Park, located in the Western Ghats, is popular for its rich biodiversity and scenic trekking routes. The park’s rolling hills and dense forests are home to several endangered species, making it a key area for wildlife conservation. Trekking enthusiasts are drawn to the park’s challenging trails, which offer glimpses of the region’s natural beauty and opportunities to spot wildlife. Kudremukh’s lush environment provides a refreshing retreat, where the natural surroundings create a peaceful setting for exploration and relaxation.

Major Attractions: Trekking, scenic views, wildlife sightings
Entry Fees: ₹150
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 340 km from Bangalore

8. Anshi National Park

The panoramic view from Anshi national park near Bangalore.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Anshi National Park, which is now part of the Kali Tiger Reserve, is a prime destination for adventure and nature lovers. Located in the Western Ghats, this park is one of the few places where black panthers can be spotted in the wild. The park’s rugged terrain is ideal for trekking, and its rivers offer exciting opportunities for rafting. Camping is another popular activity, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Anshi’s diverse ecosystems make it a fascinating destination for those interested in wildlife and outdoor activities.

Major Attractions: Black Panther sightings, river rafting, trekking
Entry Fees: ₹200
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 490 km from Bangalore

9. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Sunlight filters through the lush canopy of a tropical forest.

Photo: Manamohana Holla K / Wikimedia Commons

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats, is a treasure trove for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Recognised as an Important Bird Area, the sanctuary is home to rare species like the Nilgiri Flycatcher and the Malabar Grey Hornbill. The sanctuary’s varied ecosystems also make it a popular spot for trekking, with trails leading to the Pushpagiri peak offering amazing views. For those interested in ornithology, the sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Major Attractions: Birdwatching, trekking
Entry Fees: ₹50
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 260 km from Bangalore

10. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

The entrance of Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Western Ghats, offers a unique combination of lush forests and diverse wildlife. The sanctuary is named after the Brahmagiri peak, which is a popular trekking destination. The sanctuary’s dense forests are home to elephants, tigers, and various bird species, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The proximity to Brahmagiri Peak adds an element of adventure, with trekking trails that take visitors through the sanctuary’s natural beauty and offer stunning views from the top.

Major Attractions: Trekking, wildlife sightings
Entry Fees: ₹50
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: 270 km from Bangalore

National parks near Bangalore present diverse opportunities for exploration, ranging from thrilling wildlife encounters to invigorating trekking experiences. Each park offers its own distinct way to engage with the natural world, catering to both family-orientated outings and more adventurous expeditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s rich biodiversity, observing a variety of flora and fauna in their natural environments. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, these parks promise unforgettable moments. For a seamless and enriching experience, plan your visit with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Sanyambahga / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Bannerghatta National Park near Bangalore is a house for leopards.
These parks are famous for their wildlife, including tigers and elephants, and rich biodiversity.
There is no specific age limit, but adult supervision is recommended for children.
Yes, tickets can be booked online or at the park entrance.
You can shop at local markets in nearby towns such as Mysore, Ooty, and Coorg for handicrafts and souvenirs.

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